These Mexican barbecue chicken skewers are packed with flavor! Juicy chicken is marinated in a tasty mix of spices and grilled to perfection. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
I love making these skewers for backyard parties. They disappear so fast, I have to guard my plate! 😂 Serve them with a side of fresh salsa, and you’ll be everyone’s favorite chef!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless thighs as they stay juicy on the grill. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out.
Bell Peppers: The blend of red, yellow, and green peppers adds color and sweetness. If you can’t find one, feel free to use any variety like orange peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This is key for the marinade. If you’re looking for a flavorful swap, avocado oil or vegetable oil are great choices, too.
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika gives these skewers their bold flavor. If you want less heat, use mild chili powder and adjust the smoked paprika to taste.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness at the end. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good alternative for garnish.
How Do I Make Sure My Skewers Don’t Burn on the Grill?
Soaking wooden skewers is a must! It prevents them from catching fire while grilling. Here’s how:
- Submerge the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This hydrates them and minimizes burning.
- If you’re using metal skewers, no need to soak them, but brush them with oil to prevent sticking.
Also, make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This creates a nice sear on the chicken and veggies without burning them. Keep an eye on the skewers as you grill; turning them regularly helps cook everything evenly.
How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 onion, cut into chunks
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons Mexican chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken. You’ll also need about 10-15 minutes for grilling. If you can marinate overnight, that will give you even more delicious flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning when you grill the chicken. If you’re using metal skewers, you’re ready to go!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, Mexican chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is combined into a nice marinade.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, try to let it sit overnight!
4. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will get it nice and hot for cooking the skewers.
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to assemble! Thread the marinated chicken pieces, chunks of onion, and squares of bell peppers onto the skewers. Alternate them for a colorful look!
6. Grill the Skewers:
When the grill is ready, carefully place the skewers on the grates. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You want to see nice grill marks and ensure the chicken is cooked all the way through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once grilled, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and serve hot with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for the Skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may have varying cook times; for instance, cherry tomatoes cook faster than onions.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Thighs?
If you prefer, you can substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even shrimp! Just remember that cooking times may vary; chicken breasts might need an extra couple of minutes, while shrimp will cook much faster—about 5-7 minutes on the grill.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the grill or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also enjoy them cold in salads or wraps!
