These Mexican barbecue chicken skewers are a fun and tasty meal. Marinated in zesty spices and grilled to perfection, they are juicy and full of flavor!
Perfect for a summer cookout, I love to serve these with fresh veggies or a bright salsa. They always bring a smile to my face—and my friends too! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is lean and great for grilling. If you’re looking for something different, try chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or even shrimp for a seafood twist!
Bell Peppers: I used red, yellow, and green peppers for a vibrant look. If you prefer, swap them for zucchini or cherry tomatoes—both add flavor and color while being easy to find!
Olive Oil: It gives moisture and flavor during grilling. If you’re watching your calories, you could use less oil or opt for a cooking spray. Avocado oil is another healthy choice that can withstand high heat.
Spices: The spices in this recipe really pack a punch. If chili powder is too spicy for you, try smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for some kick. If cumin isn’t your favorite, oregano makes a nice alternative.
How Do You Properly Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is simple and elevates flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix olive oil, lime juice, and your spices in a bowl. This combination helps tenderize the chicken and add flavor.
- Add chicken pieces and make sure they’re well-coated. I use my hands for this, as it feels more effective!
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For stronger flavors, a 2-hour marination works wonders.
Just remember, don’t skip the marinating step. It’s key for juicy, flavorful chicken!
How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound chicken breast, 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 medium onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-15 minutes for grilling. Don’t forget to factor in at least 30 minutes of marinating time, making the total roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on how long you let the chicken soak in the marinade. It’s well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Once everything is mixed up, toss in the chicken pieces. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors sink in—1 to 2 hours is even better!
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill. While they soak, get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Now, it’s time to put your skewers together! Grab your marinated chicken and a skewer. Start by threading on a piece of chicken, then follow it up with a piece of red bell pepper, a piece of yellow bell pepper, and some onion. Keep alternating the ingredients on the skewer until it’s filled, leaving a little space at the end for handling. Repeat this for the rest of your ingredients.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Carefully place your assembled skewers onto the preheated grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally so they get those lovely grill marks and cook evenly. You’ll want to ensure the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you have a meat thermometer, this is a great time to use it!
5. Serve:
Once those skewers are done cooking, carefully remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Before serving, garnish with some fresh cilantro to add a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your tasty skewers with your favorite dipping sauce or sides!
Can I Use Another Type of Meat Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with beef, pork, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; for example, beef cubes may need a bit longer to cook through while shrimp will only take about 5-7 minutes on the grill.
What If I Don’t Have Lime Juice?
No worries! You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice or vinegar for a similar tangy taste. Just use the same amount, and it’ll still add a refreshing flavor to the marinade!
How Can I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them gently on the grill or in the oven to maintain their flavor and texture.
What Can I Serve with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with sides like guacamole, salsa, or a zesty corn salad to complement the flavors!
