Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are the perfect dish for any gathering, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. These skewers feature tender chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of Mexican spices, offering a burst of flavor that will please everyone at the table. Easy to prepare and packed with deliciousness, they are sure to become a favorite for both casual meals and festive occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have these flavorful skewers ready to grill or bake.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade combines garlic, jalapeño, and spices for an authentic Mexican taste that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these skewers with rice, salads, or even in tacos for a fun meal variation.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, they’re a great option for health-conscious eaters.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini food processor
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Grill or oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini food processor: Makes blending the marinade quick and easy, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
• Skewers: Essential for holding the chicken and veggies together for grilling; wooden skewers may require soaking to prevent burning.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for marinating the chicken thoroughly before grilling or baking.
• Grill or oven: Provides versatile cooking methods to achieve perfectly cooked chicken skewers.

Ingredients

Chicken

• 8 small boneless chicken thighs, any visible fat removed (approx 650g/22.5oz)

Marinade

• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed
• 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons of cumin
• 2 teaspoons of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of oregano
• handful of fresh coriander
• juice of half a lime
• salt and black pepper

Vegetables

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
• 1 white onion, chopped into square pieces

Other Ingredients

• cooking oil spray

How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Add in the spices, jalapeño, lime juice, coriander, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper to a mini food processor. Pulse until it forms a paste. If needed, add in a little water at a time to help it blend smoothly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Add the marinade to the chicken and toss well to coat each piece thoroughly. Refrigerate overnight or at least for a few hours to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Soak Wooden Skewers (if using)

If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers along with alternating pieces of red, green, yellow bell peppers, and onion. This not only adds flavor but also creates an attractive presentation.

Step 5: Cook the Skewers

Spray the assembled skewers with cooking oil spray. Cook on a hot barbecue over direct heat, turning frequently until the chicken is thoroughly cooked (approximately 15 minutes). Alternatively, bake in an oven preheated to 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) for about 25-30 minutes or use a grill pan (about 7 minutes per side).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

These flavorful Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are best served with sides like Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Serving Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers is all about complementing the rich flavors with vibrant sides and garnishes. These skewers can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their taste and presentation.

With Fresh Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa adds a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with the spices.

On a Bed of Greens

• Lettuce Wraps: Serve the skewers in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing crunch.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with avocado and lime dressing complements the savory skewers.

Topped with Guacamole

• Creamy Guacamole: The rich texture of guacamole balances the spices in the chicken skewers perfectly.

Accompanying Dips

• Chipotle Ranch Dip: A smoky dip that enhances the flavor of the chicken and adds creaminess.
• Yogurt Sauce: A cooling yogurt sauce can offset the heat from the jalapeño.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

To achieve juicy and flavorful Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, pay attention to these essential tips.

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
• Use Uniform Pieces: Cut chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: Prevent burning by soaking wooden skewers in water before grilling.
• Oil Your Grill: Lightly oil your grill grates to prevent sticking during cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave some space between pieces on skewers for better heat circulation.
• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking it reaches 165°F (75°C).

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Pairing side dishes with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers elevates your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Mexican Chopped Salad: A colorful mix of lettuce, tomatoes, corn, and black beans tossed in a zesty dressing.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and spices for added flavor.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred and brushed with butter and chili powder.
4. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a hearty addition to your plate.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
6. Guacamole & Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy tortilla chips makes for an irresistible snack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in taste and presentation.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least a few hours, but overnight is best.
• Using Dry Skewers: If you use wooden skewers without soaking them, they may catch fire on the grill. Soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Overcrowding Skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto each skewer can prevent even cooking. Alternate chicken and vegetables with space between them for better results.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking the skewers for too long can make the chicken dry. Keep an eye on them and aim for about 15 minutes on a hot barbecue.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in tasteless skewers. Always ensure your marinade is well-balanced with spices and salt.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Place the cooled skewers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers.

How do I make the marinade for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

The marinade consists of garlic, jalapeño, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, lime juice, salt, and coriander blended into a paste.

Can I use other meats besides chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef or shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat you choose.

What sides pair well with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

These skewers go great with Mexican Chopped Salad or Mexican Rice for a complete meal.

How spicy are these Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

They have a mild heat due to the jalapeño. You can adjust spice levels by adding more or less pepper according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different vegetables or spices based on your taste preferences. Try this recipe at your next barbecue and impress your guests!