Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a perfect blend of flavors, making them ideal for any gathering or summer barbecue. These tender chicken skewers are marinated in a zesty Mexican spice mix that not only enhances the taste but also brings a vibrant color to your plate. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or casual weeknight meals, these skewers are sure to impress everyone with their deliciousness and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a flavorful dish ready to cook.
• Bursting with Flavor: A delightful marinade made from garlic, jalapeño, and spices ensures every bite is packed with taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these skewers on their own, or pair them with your favorite sides like Mexican Chopped Salad or rice.
• Healthy & Gluten-Free: Made with lean chicken thighs and fresh vegetables, this recipe fits well into various dietary preferences.
• Easy Cleanup: Cook them on the grill or in the oven; either way, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

To make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini food processor
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Grill or oven
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini food processor: This tool helps create a smooth marinade quickly and efficiently.
• Skewers: Essential for assembling your chicken and veggies, ensuring even cooking on the grill or in the oven.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for marinating the chicken thoroughly before cooking.
• Grill or oven: Both options provide flexibility on how you want to prepare your skewers.

Ingredients

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

Chicken and 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

Vegetables

• 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 Essentials

• 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 it forms a paste. If needed, add water gradually to help it blend smoothly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. Place the diced chicken in a mixing bowl and pour the marinade over it. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to prevent burning.
2. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers alternately with bell peppers and onion pieces (chicken-vegetable-chicken-vegetable).

Step 4: Cook the Skewers

1. Spray the assembled skewers lightly with cooking oil spray.
2. Grill on a hot barbecue for approximately 15 minutes, turning frequently until cooked through.
3. Alternatively, bake in an oven preheated to 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) for about 25-30 minutes or use a grill pan for about 7 minutes on each side.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers hot alongside Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Serving Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers can elevate your gathering and delight your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Fresh Toppings

• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the spice.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the smoky flavors.
• Pico de gallo: This fresh salsa brings brightness and acidity, enhancing the overall taste.

Accompaniments

• Corn tortillas: Warm tortillas are perfect for wrapping around the skewers for a handheld treat.
• Lime wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over the skewers adds a zesty kick.
• Guacamole: Serve alongside for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Salads

• Mexican Chopped Salad: A colorful salad adds freshness and crunch, complementing the skewers nicely.
• Cabbage slaw: A tangy slaw can provide a delightful crunch and contrast to the tender chicken.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

To achieve perfectly cooked Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor penetration.
• Cut evenly: Ensure that chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
• Soak wooden skewers: Soaking prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring safety and quality.
• Preheat your grill: A hot grill ensures that the skewers sear properly, locking in moisture.
• Use a meat thermometer: Check for doneness when the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect results.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the bold flavors of the skewers.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness, balancing out the dish.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn brushed with lime and chili powder enhances the barbecue experience.
4. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): This creamy corn dish offers sweetness and spice that pairs beautifully with your skewers.
5. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad with black beans, corn, and cilantro provides a hearty yet light option.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil make for a colorful and nutritious side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marination time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland skewers. Aim for at least a few hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
• Using dry chicken: Overcooking the chicken can result in dryness. Make sure to monitor cooking times closely, aiming for about 15 minutes on the grill.
• Neglecting vegetable prep: Cutting vegetables unevenly can lead to inconsistent cooking. Chop all vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even grilling.
• Not soaking wooden skewers: If you use wooden skewers without soaking, they may burn on the grill. Soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Forgetting seasoning balance: Under-seasoning can make your skewers taste flat. Don’t hesitate to adjust salt and spices according to your taste preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• To freeze, place skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, checking regularly to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place them on a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, here are some common questions:

What is the best meat for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

Chicken thighs are ideal because they remain juicy and tender during grilling.

Can I use other vegetables with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with zucchini, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes based on your preference.

How spicy are Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

The heat mainly comes from jalapeños. For milder skewers, reduce or omit the jalapeño.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate and assemble them a day before cooking for added convenience.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for any barbecue occasion, you can customize them with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love!