Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delightful way to enjoy tender chicken marinated in a zesty blend of spices. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner, these skewers pack a flavorful punch that will impress your guests. The combination of juicy chicken and colorful veggies makes this dish not only delicious but visually appealing too. Enjoy these skewers as a standalone meal or pair them with sides like Mexican rice or a refreshing salad for a complete feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, you can have these skewers ready for grilling in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers, main courses, or even in wraps for lunch.
• Colorful Presentation: Brightly colored peppers and onions make these skewers as pretty as they are tasty.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Low in calories and packed with protein, this dish fits well into various diets.

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Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini food processor
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini food processor: Ideal for blending marinade ingredients quickly and evenly.
• Skewers: Essential for assembling your chicken and vegetables; they help achieve even cooking.
• Grill or grill pan: Creates the perfect char on your skewers while sealing in moisture.
• Knife and cutting board: Necessary for safely preparing your ingredients.

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 the spices, jalapeño, lime juice, coriander, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper to a mini food processor.
2. Pulse until blended into a paste. If needed, add water gradually to help it pulse smoothly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with the marinade. Toss well to ensure all pieces are coated.
3. Refrigerate overnight or at least for a few hours to let flavors meld.

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 skewers, alternating with pieces of red, green, yellow 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 over medium heat, turning frequently until the chicken is cooked through (approximately 15 minutes).
3. Alternatively, bake in an oven at 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) for about 25-30 minutes or use a grill pan (cooking about 7 minutes on each side).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers alongside Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice for a complete meal everyone will love!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and succulent chicken. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

With Tortillas

• Flour or corn tortillas provide a great base for these skewers, allowing you to create delicious wraps with added toppings like salsa and avocado.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the skewers on a bed of fluffy Mexican rice for a hearty meal that absorbs all the wonderful barbecue flavors.

Paired with Dips

• Include sides of guacamole, sour cream, or pico de gallo for dipping. These creamy and zesty dips complement the spicy chicken perfectly.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a colorful platter with multiple skewers, grilled veggies, and fresh coriander. This vibrant display is perfect for gatherings and BBQ parties.

Accompanied by Salad

• A fresh Mexican chopped salad brings a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken. The refreshing ingredients balance the rich flavors of the skewers.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

To make sure your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavor. The spices will penetrate deeper into the meat.

• Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

• High Heat Cooking: Cook on high heat to get those lovely grill marks and seal in moisture. Ensure your barbecue is preheated before cooking.

• Turn Frequently: Keep turning the skewers while cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents any pieces from drying out.

• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees it’s safe to eat while remaining juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Complement your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers with delicious side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mexican Rice
   Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices adds a comforting touch to your meal.

2. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brushed with butter and lime juice offers a delightful crunch alongside the skewers.

3. Guacamole
   Creamy avocado dip infused with lime and cilantro provides a cool contrast to spicy chicken.

4. Pico de Gallo
   Fresh tomato salsa made with onions, cilantro, and lime juice brightens up every bite you take.

5. Refried Beans
   Creamy beans seasoned with spices serve as a hearty side that pairs well with grilled flavors.

6. Mexican Chopped Salad
   A mix of lettuce, tomatoes, corn, and black beans adds freshness while balancing the richness of the skewers.

7. Zucchini Fritters
   Crispy fritters made from zucchini give a tasty crunch that complements your meal beautifully.

8. Sautéed Peppers and Onions
   Colorful peppers and onions sautéed in olive oil add extra flavor while echoing ingredients from the skewers themselves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can result in bland skewers. Aim for at least a few hours, preferably overnight.
• Not balancing flavors: Overusing one spice can overpower the dish. Use a mix of spices and adjust to your taste for a well-rounded flavor.
• Ignoring skewer safety: If using wooden skewers, failing to soak them can lead to burning on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand.
• Crowding the skewers: Packing too much onto each skewer can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s space between pieces for proper heat circulation.
• Neglecting temperature control: Cooking on too high heat can char the outside before the chicken is fully cooked. Maintain a medium heat for even cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat skewers on a baking tray for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place the skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook skewers, turning occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other meats for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

You can definitely substitute chicken with beef, pork, or shrimp! Adjust cooking times accordingly.

What sides go well with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

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

How do I make these skewers spicy?

For spicier Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, add more jalapeño or include crushed red pepper flakes in your marinade.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers in advance. Just store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite vegetables or tweak the spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy an amazing barbecue experience!