These Mexican barbecue chicken skewers are fun and full of flavor! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a tasty mix of spices and grilled to perfection. Perfect for sunny days!
Perfect for a BBQ or just a cozy dinner, these skewers will have you saying “another one, please!” To make it even better, they’re super easy to prepare, so let’s get grilling!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture and flavor. However, chicken breasts work well too, especially if you want a leaner option.
Bell Peppers: The colorful mix adds sweetness and crunch. If you can’t find all three colors, any combination works. Zucchini or mushrooms are great substitutes if you’re looking to change it up.
Marinade Ingredients: Fresh lime juice is key for a zesty kick. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice does the job too. I often add a bit of honey or agave for extra sweetness. For a smoky flavor, try adding chipotle powder instead of cayenne.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives amazing flavor, but garlic powder can be a substitute in a pinch. Just use less, around 1/4 tsp per clove.
Cilantro: A fresh garnish that brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions can add a nice touch instead.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Skewers Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy skewers is all in the marinating and cooking. To really enhance the flavors, marinate the chicken for at least an hour—or better yet, overnight. Make sure the marinade covers every piece well.
- Mix ingredients in a bowl, then add chicken, ensuring it’s coated.
- Cover and refrigerate. The longer, the better!
- When grilling, keep an eye on the heat. Too high can burn the outside before the inside cooks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is the target.
- Let them rest after grilling to retain moisture.
Delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
For the Marinade:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Bamboo or metal skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour of marinating time and 30 minutes for prep and cooking, so plan for a total of about 1.5 hours. If you can, marinate the chicken overnight to really enhance the flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if you want a spicy kick), olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients well to create your marinade. This is where the flavor magic begins!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the 1-inch cubes of chicken to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure every piece is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best for maximum flavor!
3. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using bamboo skewers, it’s important to soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This will help prevent them from burning on the grill. While they soak, you can prep your veggies!
4. Preheat the Grill:
Set your grill to medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook!
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Once everything is prepped, it’s time to put the skewers together! Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with the red, yellow, and green bell peppers, as well as the onion wedges. This not only looks great but adds a delicious variety of flavors!
6. Grill the Skewers:
Carefully place the skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’ll know they are done when the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), plus they’ll have a lovely char.
7. Rest and Garnish:
After grilling, remove the skewers and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle back into the chicken. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for a touch of color and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your scrumptious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers! They pair beautifully with warm tortillas or a refreshing side salad. Happy grilling!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a great substitute; just note they may dry out faster than thighs. To keep them juicy, avoid overcooking and consider marinating them for the same amount of time as stated in the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Lime Juice?
If you don’t have lime juice, fresh lemon juice works well as a substitute. You can also use vinegar (like apple cider or white vinegar) in a pinch, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the flavor. About half the amount should suffice!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through, or briefly in the microwave. Just be careful not to overcook and dry them out!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Skewers?
Definitely! Feel free to add zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for additional flavor and texture. Just make sure the vegetables you choose cook at a similar rate as the chicken to ensure everything is perfectly done at the same time.
