Name: Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers Bursting with Flavor
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 1 kg Chicken Thighs (Trim visible fat.); 3 cloves Garlic (Use fresh for flavor.); 1 small Jalapeño Pepper (Remove seeds for milder taste.); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (Substitute with tomato sauce if needed.); 1 teaspoon Cumin (Key ingredient for flavor.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Opt for smoked for intensity.); 1 teaspoon Oregano (Fresh is ideal.); 1 teaspoon Coriander (Omit if unavailable.); 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Lemon juice can be an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 2 cups Bell Peppers (Red, Green, Yellow) (Add color and sweetness.); 1 medium White Onion (Aromatic base.); 1 spray Cooking Oil (Neutral oil like avocado or sunflower.)

The smell of grilled chicken wafts through the air, awakening my senses and sparking memories of summer barbecues filled with laughter and delicious bites. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Tender Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, a fantastic choice for those looking to elevate their grilling game while keeping things gluten-free and dairy-free. These skewers are not just a feast for the eyes but also a healthy alternative to traditional barbecue fare, ensuring you can indulge without guilt. With minimal prep time, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress guests at your next outdoor gathering. Ready to discover the secret to flavorful skewers that will have everyone coming back for seconds? Let’s get grilling!

Why Are These Skewers a Must-Try?

Flavorful Experience: Each skewer is a burst of Mexican spices that will transport you straight to a sun-soaked fiesta.
Easy Preparation: With simple marinating and grilling steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
Healthy Option: Keeping it gluten-free and dairy-free means you can enjoy these skewers without the extra calories—perfect for any health-conscious foodie!
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or beef, or mix in your favorite veggies to suit your tastes. Try pairing them with a refreshing Napa Chicken Salad or some flavorful Thai Baked Chicken for a complete meal!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family dinner, these skewers are sure to impress everyone at the table.

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Trim visible fat for a leaner, juicier skewer that stays flavorful and moist.
• Garlic – Use fresh for a robust flavor; garlic powder works in a pinch if you’re in a hurry.

For the Marinade
• Jalapeño Pepper – Adds a zesty kick; remove seeds for a milder taste if preferred.
• Tomato Paste – This keeps the chicken moist and adds depth; substitute with tomato sauce if needed.
• Cumin – A key ingredient for that quintessential Mexican flavor profile; don’t skip it!
• Paprika – You can opt for smoked paprika for a more intense flavor and a vibrant color.
• Oregano – Fresh is ideal for a herbal touch; thyme can be a suitable substitute if necessary.
• Coriander – This fresh herb brightens the dish; omit if you can’t find it.
• Lime Juice – Offers the acidity you need; lemon juice is a good alternative if lime isn’t available.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Adjust according to your dietary needs for a balanced flavor.

For the Skewers
• Bell Peppers (Red, Green, Yellow) – These add both color and sweetness; feel free to swap in zucchini or mushrooms.
• White Onion – A great aromatic base; red onion brings a sweeter note if you prefer.
• Cooking Oil Spray – Helps prevent sticking on the grill; any neutral oil will do, like avocado or sunflower oil.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting exquisite Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers that will delight your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by combining garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, salt, and black pepper in a food processor. Blend until smooth for a flavorful marinade that brings zest to your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers. Ensure that everything is well incorporated for optimal flavor distribution.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Combine the chicken with the prepared marinade in a large bowl or resealable bag, coating each piece thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best infusion of flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. This step is crucial as it helps ensure your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers won’t char too quickly on the grill. Meanwhile, preheat your grill to high heat to get it ready for those juicy skewers.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
Once marinated, it’s time to assemble your skewers. Alternate threading pieces of marinated chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. This vibrant assembly not only adds flavor but also makes for a stunning presentation.

Step 5: Oil the Skewers
Lightly spray the assembled skewers with cooking oil. This prevents them from sticking to the grill and promotes even charring, enhancing the overall taste of your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers. Be sure to coat all sides for the best results!

Step 6: Grill the Skewers
Grill the skewers on high heat for about 15 minutes, turning them frequently to ensure even cooking. Look for the chicken to turn golden brown and the vegetables to soften slightly while maintaining their shape. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption.

Step 7: Alternative Cooking Method
If you prefer an oven-baked option, preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This method also yields deliciously tender Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, perfect for any cooking setup.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill or oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes. The resting period allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite. Serve your flavorful Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers with fresh sides to complement their zesty profile.

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers Variations

Customize your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences, all while enjoying a colorful and flavorful grilling experience.

Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, pork, or beef for a delightful twist that caters to your palate. Each option brings its unique flavor and retains that juicy texture!
Veggie Variety: Use seasonal vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even corn to brighten your skewers. This not only adds color but also diverse flavors that can surprise your taste buds.
Marinade Magic: Experiment with different marinades, such as teriyaki or a tangy citrus blend, to switch up the flavor profile. Each new twist can transport you to a different culinary land.
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade for an extra kick of heat that spice lovers will appreciate. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
Fruit Fusion: Introduce pieces of pineapple, mango, or peach along with the chicken and veggies. The sweetness of the fruit will create a lovely contrast to the smoky, savory flavors.
Dairy-Free Sauce: Experiment with a dairy-free yogurt-based sauce or avocado sauce drizzled over the skewers for a creamy finish. These options keep everything light and healthy while adding a rich layer of flavor.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or mint into the marinade or as a garnish for an aromatic lift that complements the spices beautifully. The freshness will elevate each bite!

Don’t forget to serve your skewers with a refreshing side, maybe a lovely Napa Chicken Salad or some delicious Chicken Empanadas to complete your meal!

What to Serve with Tender Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Looking to create a vibrant and satisfying meal that complements your zesty skewers?

Mexican Chopped Salad: This refreshing mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado offers crunch and creaminess, balancing the flavors beautifully. Drizzle with lime vinaigrette for a bright finish!
Lime Cilantro Rice: Fragrant and tangy, this rice dish enhances the Mexican flavors of your skewers, making it the perfect base to soak up any delicious juices.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of charred corn pairs wonderfully with the spice of the skewers, creating an irresistible summer vibe. Brush with butter and sprinkle with chili powder for an extra kick!
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole offers a refreshing dip that perfectly contrasts the grilled flavors. Serve with crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
Black Bean Salsa: This hearty salsa is bursting with protein and flavor; it makes for a vibrant side that brightens your plate. Serve it chilled for a refreshing condiment option.
Margaritas: Elevate your meal experience with a chilled margarita; the citrus notes and refreshingly tart flavor will pair splendidly with the skewers’ spice profile.
Fruit Salad: A light and sweet option, a fruit salad with pineapple, mango, and lime can cleanse the palate and provide a delightful finish to your meal.

Each of these accompaniments brings its own unique texture and taste, perfectly harmonizing with your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers!

How to Store and Freeze Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Fridge: Store cooked Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your skewers again, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, and then reheat in the microwave or on a grill until heated through.

Serving Suggestions: Consider adding a splash of fresh lime juice after reheating to revive the flavors before serving!

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a fantastic meal prep option for busy home cooks looking to savor flavorful grilled goodness without all the last-minute fuss! You can marinate the chicken thighs for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the spices to deeply infuse their flavors. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (bell peppers and onions) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to grill, simply thread the marinated chicken and prepped veggies onto the skewers, lightly spritz them with oil, and grill as instructed. This way, you preserve the vibrant quality of the ingredients while enjoying a delicious meal with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Marinade Time: Longer is better: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. This will enhance the taste of your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers.
Space Out Ingredients: Avoid overcrowding: Leave a little space between chicken and veggies on each skewer to ensure even cooking and thorough charring.
Temperature Check: Don’t skip this step: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) for food safety.
Soak the Skewers: Prevent burning: If using wooden skewers, soak them for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent charred ends.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Brighten the flavor: Fresh herbs and spices make a significant difference in taste, so opt for fresh where possible for your skewers.
Experiment with Veggies: Mix it up: Feel free to try different vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference, enhancing not just flavor but also color.

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my chicken is ripe for skewering?
Absolutely! For the best taco fiesta experience, choose chicken thighs that are bright pink with no dark spots or unpleasant odors. Fresh chicken should feel slightly moist—dry chicken may indicate age.

What is the best way to store leftovers from the skewers?
After enjoying your flavorful Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help preserve their delicious taste and texture. Just let them cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.

Can I freeze the skewers, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. This double-layer will help protect them from freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight before re-heating!

What should I do if the chicken is overcooked?
Oh dear! If your chicken turns out dry, don’t worry—there’s a quick fix. Shred the overcooked chicken and mix it with a little extra marinade or a splash of chicken broth to moisten it. You can serve it as a filling for tacos or over a bed of fresh greens.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are gluten-free and dairy-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs. If you’re serving them to pets or others with food allergies, be cautious with spicy ingredients like jalapeños. Moreover, if someone is allergic to chicken, feel free to substitute it with shrimp or beef instead!

How can I make sure my skewers don’t stick to the grill?
To prevent your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers from sticking, soak wooden skewers in warm water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling. Lightly spraying the skewers with cooking oil before grilling will also help them slide off easily after cooking. Enjoy grilling, and embrace the flavor!