Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers offer a flavorful and vibrant meal that’s perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a simple family dinner. The unique blend of spices combined with tender chicken creates a dish that tantalizes the taste buds. With its ease of preparation and versatility, you can enjoy these skewers anytime while impressing your guests with authentic Mexican flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these skewers ready for cooking in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The marinated chicken thighs are infused with spices, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these skewers as an appetizer or main course alongside salads or rice for a complete meal.
• Healthy Choice: Low in calories and high in protein, these skewers fit well into various diet plans.
• Adaptable Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers is straightforward with the right tools. Having essential kitchen equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini food processor
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Grill or oven
• Knife and chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini food processor: Perfect for blending spices into a smooth marinade quickly.
• Skewers: Essential for assembling the chicken and vegetables; soak wooden skewers to prevent burning.
• Grill or oven: Both options provide excellent cooking methods to achieve juicy chicken.

Ingredients

Mexican Barbecue – tender chicken skewers marinated with a delicious Mexican blend of spices for the perfect barbecue meal.

For the Chicken Marinade

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

For the Skewers

• 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
• cooking oil spray

How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Add in the spices, jalapeño, lime juice, coriander, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper to a mini food processor.
2. Pulse until you create a smooth paste. Add in water as needed to help it blend.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. Combine the marinade with the diced chicken in a bowl and toss until thoroughly coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least a few hours, preferably overnight.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
2. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of bell peppers and onion.

Step 4: Cook the Skewers

1. Spray the assembled skewers lightly with cooking oil spray.
2. Cook on a hot barbecue grill, turning frequently until the chicken is cooked through (about 15 minutes).
3. Alternatively, bake in an oven for 25-30 minutes at 220°C (fan 200°C) or grill on a pan for approximately 7 minutes on each side.

These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are best served hot alongside a refreshing Mexican Chopped Salad or fluffy Mexican Rice for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your barbecue experience.

With Fresh Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh tomato salsa that adds a bright flavor.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy, this salsa pairs wonderfully with the spicy skewers.

On a Bed of Rice

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime and cilantro complements the skewers nicely.
• Mexican Rice: A seasoned rice dish that adds extra flavor and texture.

Accompanied by Dips

• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that balances the spices in the chicken.
• Chipotle Mayo: A smoky dip that adds richness and depth to each bite.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the smoky flavor of the skewers.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty dressing can refresh your palate.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

To ensure your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers turn out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: Soaking prevents wooden skewers from burning on the grill.
• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful char marks and cooks the chicken evenly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables provide vibrant flavors that elevate your dish.
• Check for Doneness: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Complementing your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Chopped Salad: A colorful mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados tossed in lime vinaigrette.
2. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime.
3. Black Beans: Creamy beans seasoned with spices make a hearty addition to your plate.
4. Refried Beans: Smoothly blended beans provide a rich side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
5. Guacamole & Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy chips is always a crowd-pleaser.
6. Zesty Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw with a tangy dressing adds crunch and balance to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for a perfect barbecue experience.

• Skipping the marinade time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours or overnight can result in bland skewers. Always give it enough time to soak up those flavors.
• Using dry wooden skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water beforehand. This prevents them from burning during cooking.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Placing too much chicken and vegetables on one skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Space out your ingredients for better heat distribution.
• Not preheating the grill: Cooking on a cold grill will not give you that charred, smoky flavor associated with barbecued chicken. Always preheat your grill before cooking.
• Ignoring doneness: Failing to check if the chicken is fully cooked can be risky. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

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

Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Cook skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers.

How do I make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers spicier?

You can add more jalapeño or include other spicy peppers in the marinade. Adjust according to your heat preference!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breast can be used, though it may require less marinating time as it is leaner than thighs.

What should I serve with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with sides like Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice for a complete meal.

How long should I marinate the chicken for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight or at least for a few hours.

Can I grill these skewers indoors?

Yes! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop if outdoor grilling isn’t an option. Just ensure proper ventilation while cooking.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different vegetables or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any barbecue gathering or weeknight dinner!