Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delightful and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or looking to impress guests at a gathering, these skewers are sure to be a hit. The tender chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of Mexican spices brings an exciting twist to your meal. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be grilled or baked, making them versatile for any cooking method.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Delight: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these skewers ready for your next meal or gathering.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Cook them on the grill, bake them in the oven, or use a grill pan—perfect for any kitchen setup.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, these skewers make a nutritious choice for any meal plan.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties and gatherings, they appeal to both kids and adults alike.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers effectively, you’ll need some essential tools.

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 helps you create a smooth marinade quickly, ensuring all flavors blend well.
• Skewers: Using either wooden or metal skewers allows you to easily grill your chicken and veggies together for even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl is essential for marinating the chicken thoroughly before grilling.
• Grill or oven: Both options give you flexibility in cooking methods depending on your preference or available equipment.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken

• 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 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

Other Ingredients

• cooking oil spray

How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

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

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Transfer them to a mixing bowl and pour the marinade over the chicken. Toss to thoroughly coat all pieces with the marinade.

Step 3: Refrigerate

Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to an airtight container. Refrigerate overnight or at least for a few hours to allow flavors to develop.

Step 4: Prepare Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

Step 5: Assemble Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of red, green, yellow bell peppers, and onion.

Step 6: Lightly Oil

Spray the assembled skewers lightly with cooking oil spray. This helps prevent sticking during cooking.

Step 7: Cook on Grill

Cook on a hot barbecue grill for about 15 minutes, turning frequently until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 8: Alternative Cooking Method

Alternatively, these can be baked in an oven set at 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) for about 25-30 minutes or on a grill pan for approximately 7 minutes each side.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot alongside Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice for an authentic experience!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Serving Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers can elevate your meal and impress your guests. These skewers are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to enhance their flavors.

With Fresh Salsas

• Pico de Gallo – A refreshing mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice to brighten the dish.
• Mango Salsa – Sweet mango combined with red onion and jalapeño for a tropical kick.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Mexican Rice – Flavored with spices and herbs, this rice complements the skewers perfectly.
• Cilantro Lime Quinoa – A zesty alternative that adds a healthy grain option to your meal.

Accompanied by Salads

• Mexican Chopped Salad – A colorful mix of lettuce, corn, black beans, and avocado drizzled with a lime vinaigrette.
• Cabbage Slaw – A crunchy slaw with lime dressing that adds texture and freshness.

On a Bed of Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled Zucchini & Eggplant – Char-grilled veggies provide a smoky flavor that pairs well with the chicken.
• Roasted Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with lime butter enhances the barbecue experience.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

To achieve the best results with your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your skewers are flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Marinate for Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors significantly.
• Use Uniform Pieces – Cutting chicken and vegetables into similar sizes ensures even cooking on the grill.
• Soak Wooden Skewers – Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning during grilling, allowing for a safer cooking process.
• Preheat Your Grill – Starting on a hot grill helps achieve those perfect grill marks while sealing in juices.
• Baste While Grilling – Brush some marinade on the skewers while they cook to enhance flavor and moisture.
• Check for Doneness – Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through (165°F or 75°C) for safety.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

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

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices that complement the smoky flavor of the skewers.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy beans add protein and richness, making them an ideal accompaniment.
3. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip that brings a deliciously rich texture and flavor contrast.
4. Corn Salad – A vibrant mix of sweet corn, bell peppers, and cilantro dressed in lime juice.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients to your plate.
6. Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for a fun appetizer before main dishes.
7. Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Corn on the cob topped with cheese, chili powder, and lime for an irresistible treat.
8. Cabbage Slaw – Crunchy slaw dressed in lime vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch next to savory skewers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Inadequate marination time: Failing to marinate the chicken long enough can lead to bland skewers. Aim for at least a few hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
• Neglecting the vegetables: Using only chicken can make your skewers one-dimensional. Incorporate a variety of colorful bell peppers and onions for added taste and aesthetics.
• Skipping soaking wooden skewers: If you use wooden skewers without soaking, they may burn on the grill. Always soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much on each skewer can prevent even cooking. Alternate chicken and vegetables and leave some space between pieces for proper heat circulation.
• Not checking doneness: Relying solely on time can lead to undercooked chicken. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure food safety.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep the Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Place cooked skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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. Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add skewers and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers that might help you perfect your dish.

Can I use other proteins for these skewers?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How spicy are Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

The spiciness primarily comes from jalapeño peppers. You can adjust the amount used according to your tolerance level.

What sides go well with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair beautifully with Mexican Chopped Salad and fluffy Mexican Rice, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day before and assemble the skewers when ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re grilling in the summer or baking in winter, these skewers are sure to impress. Feel free to customize them with different vegetables or spices according to your taste!