Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers bring the flavors of classic Mexican street food into your kitchen with tender marinated chicken and colorful veggies. These skewers are perfect for grilling season and always remind me of neighborhood cookouts that turned into impromptu fiestas with my family.

Ingredients

• Boneless chicken thighs: tender and juicy so your skewers never go dry look for ones with no extra fat
• Fresh garlic: brings real depth manage the flavor by mincing it finely
• Jalapeno pepper: adds heat adjust the amount for your spice preference and pick a firm bright green pepper
• Tomato paste: brings rich umami flavors pick a brand with a deep red color for the best result
• Cumin: gives the marinade a signature earthiness try to use freshly ground if possible
• Paprika: for smokiness use sweet or smoked depending on your taste
• Oregano: adds an herbal kick choose dried Mexican oregano if available
• Fresh coriander: adds freshness select bunches that are fragrant and bright
• Juice of half a lime: zesty and helps tenderize the meat pick limes that feel heavy for their size
• Salt and black pepper: essential for seasoning use sea salt and coarse or freshly ground black pepper
• Red yellow and green bell peppers: bring natural sweetness and vibrant color look for peppers with firm flesh and shiny skin
• White onion: adds mild sweetness to every bite pick onions that are heavy and firm
• Cooking oil spray: helps the skewers crisp up on the grill without sticking choose a high smoke-point oil spray for the best finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Marinade:

Process garlic jalapeno cumin paprika oregano coriander lime juice salt and pepper in a mini food processor until a smooth paste forms If the mixture looks too thick add a small splash of water between pulses You want everything finely blended so the chicken absorbs all the flavors

Prep the Chicken:

Cut each chicken thigh into bite sized pieces For even cooking try to keep the pieces similar in size Place them in a bowl and pour over all of the marinade Toss really well to make sure every bit is coated This step is essential for juicy flavorful chicken

Marinate:

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least a few hours overnight is best This gives the marinade time to penetrate the meat and build real flavor

Soak the Skewers:

If you are using wooden skewers immerse them in warm water for half an hour to prevent burning on the grill Do not skip this step if grilling outdoors

Assemble the Skewers:

Thread marinated chicken pieces alternately with bell pepper squares and onion onto the skewers Patterning the vegetables and chicken not only looks appealing but helps balance flavors and textures

Oil and Preheat:

Spray assembled skewers evenly with cooking oil to get that chargrilled finish Heat your barbecue grill or grill pan until piping hot

Grill the Skewers:

Cook skewers over direct heat turning every few minutes for about fifteen minutes Make sure the chicken pieces are cooked all the way through and develop a nice char Alternatively bake at high heat or grill indoors flipping halfway through

Serve and Enjoy:

Take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a minute before serving Enjoy with sides like Mexican chopped salad and fluffy Mexican rice

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I always savor the colorful bell peppers they soak up just enough marinade to stay sweet and smoky My family always fights over the skewers with the most peppers and onion

Storage Tips

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days For the best flavor let them come to room temperature before reheating You can reheat over medium heat on a grill pan or in the oven to help the edges stay crisp Freeze the marinated raw chicken separately if you want to prep ahead

Ingredient Substitutions

Boneless chicken breast can be used for a leaner version but take care not to overcook For a milder flavor use sweet red peppers in place of jalapeno Vegan options include cubes of extra firm tofu or large mushrooms instead of chicken If you do not have fresh coriander add a little extra lime juice for freshness

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Serving Suggestions

Pile skewers on a platter with lime wedges and fresh coriander for garnish Serve with rice black beans or a summery corn salad Warm flour tortillas make a great hand held option for wrapping up the grilled chicken and veggies These skewers pair well with cooling yogurt dip or guacamole for a crowd pleasing spread

Cultural Context

Barbecue chicken marinated in chilies and aromatic herbs is a Mexican food tradition especially at family gatherings and fiestas This recipe echoes the street vendors of Mexico City who grill meat with bright peppers and lots of spice on open fires Every bite reminds me of the scent of smoke and lime that lingers in the air at a busy mercado

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should the chicken marinate for best flavor?

It's ideal to marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight to allow the spices and lime to fully infuse the meat.

→ Can these skewers be cooked without a barbecue grill?

Yes, you can bake them in the oven at high heat or use a grill pan for a similar charred effect and juicy texture.

→ What vegetables can be added to the skewers?

Bell peppers and onions are classic choices, but you can also use zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for variety.

→ How do I keep wooden skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in warm water for at least 30 minutes before threading the ingredients and grilling.

→ What can be served alongside these chicken skewers?

Pair them with Mexican-style chopped salad, seasoned rice, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.