Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delightful addition to any gathering or barbecue. This dish combines tender chicken with a vibrant mix of spices, creating a flavor explosion that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, these skewers are versatile and easy to prepare. With their smoky aroma and zesty taste, they are perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: The marinade comes together in just minutes, making it easy to whip up.
• Flavorful: The unique blend of spices infuses the chicken with a rich Mexican flavor.
• Versatile: Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or even weeknight dinners, serving them with various sides.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories and packed with protein, these skewers fit well into many diets.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

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Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Having the right items will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini food processor: This tool allows for quick blending of spices and ingredients, ensuring an even marinade.
• Skewers: Essential for grilling, they hold the chicken and vegetables together for easy cooking and serving.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl makes it simple to toss chicken with the marinade thoroughly.
• Grill or oven: This is where the magic happens—whether grilling outdoors or baking indoors, both methods yield delicious results.

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

Add in the spices, jalapeño, lime juice, coriander, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper to a mini food processor. Pulse until you form a paste. If needed, add a little water at a time to help it pulse smoothly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a mixing bowl and add the marinade. Toss until all pieces are thoroughly coated in the flavorful mixture.

Step 3: Refrigerate

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to an airtight container. Refrigerate overnight or at least for a few hours for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 4: Prepare Skewers (if using wooden)

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps prevent burning during grilling.

Step 5: Assemble Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers along with alternating pieces of bell peppers and onion (e.g., chicken, vegetable, chicken).

Step 6: Oil the Skewers

Spray all sides of the skewers—both chicken and vegetables—with cooking oil spray to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Step 7: Cook on Barbecue

Place skewers on a hot barbecue grill. Turn frequently until the chicken is cooked through (approximately 15 minutes).

Step 8: Alternative Cooking Method

If you prefer baking these skewers instead of grilling:
– Preheat your oven to 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7).
– Bake for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
– Alternatively, grill on a grill pan for approximately 7 minutes per side.

Step 9: Serve

These delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are great served alongside Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice for a complete meal!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Serving Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers can elevate your meal experience, making it vibrant and flavorful. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious dish.

On a Colorful Platter

• Arrange the skewers on a large serving platter with fresh herbs and lime wedges for a pop of color.
• Add additional grilled vegetables for extra texture and flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

• Serve alongside creamy avocado dip or spicy salsa for a delightful contrast.
• Try a tangy yogurt sauce to balance the spices in the chicken.

In Tacos

• Slide the chicken skewers into warm corn tortillas for a fun taco twist.
• Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a drizzle of lime juice.

Paired with Rice

• Serve over a bed of fluffy Mexican rice to soak up the juices from the skewers.
• Make it colorful by mixing in some peas or corn.

Accompanied by Salad

• Pair with a Mexican chopped salad that includes black beans, corn, and avocado for freshness.
• The crunchiness of fresh veggies complements the tender chicken perfectly.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

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

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just for a few hours.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will enhance the overall taste of your skewers significantly.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: Prevent burning by soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Cook on High Heat: A hot grill helps achieve those perfect char marks while keeping the chicken juicy.
• Don’t Crowd the Skewers: Space out chicken and vegetables on each skewer to ensure even cooking.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Mexican Chopped Salad
   A refreshing mix of lettuce, tomatoes, corn, and black beans drizzled with lime dressing.

2. Spanish Rice
   Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices adds a flavorful base to your meal.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brushed with butter and sprinkled with chili powder is a classic barbecue side.

4. Guacamole
   Creamy avocado dip enhances every bite and adds richness to your plate.

5. Pico de Gallo
   Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime offers bright flavors that complement the skewers.

6. Refried Beans
   Creamy refried beans provide protein and pair well with rice or as a spread on tortillas.

7. Zesty Coleslaw
   A crunchy side of coleslaw dressed in a zesty vinaigrette adds texture and tanginess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating and grilling can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers.

• Skipping the marinade time – Failing to marinate the chicken for enough time results in less flavor. Always aim for at least a few hours, preferably overnight.
• Using dry skewers – Not soaking wooden skewers can lead to burning. Make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use.
• Overcrowding the skewers – Packing the chicken and vegetables too tightly prevents even cooking. Space them out slightly for better heat circulation.
• Ignoring doneness – Not checking if the chicken is fully cooked can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Cooking at low heat – Cooking on low heat makes chicken tough and dry. Aim for a hot barbecue or grill pan for juicy, tender skewers.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

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

Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers.

What are Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are tender pieces of chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of Mexican spices and grilled with colorful vegetables.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu for different flavors while following the same marinating process.

How do I make these skewers gluten-free?

To keep your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers gluten-free, ensure that all ingredients used (such as spices and sauces) are labeled gluten-free.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and marinate the skewers a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers offer a delightful blend of flavors that make them perfect for any occasion. They’re versatile too! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare and how delicious they taste!