Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful barbecue meal. These skewers feature tender chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of Mexican spices, making them perfect for any gathering or family dinner. Whether you’re grilling outside or preparing them in the oven, these skewers deliver delicious taste and are sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these skewers ready to marinate and cook.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade combines spices like cumin and paprika for an authentic Mexican taste that stands out.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair with rice, salads, or serve as appetizers at gatherings—perfect for any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, these skewers are a nutritious choice for all diets.
• Grill or Bake: Enjoy flexibility in cooking; whether on a grill or in the oven, both methods yield delicious results.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth, having the right tools is essential. Below are the items you’ll need to prepare these delightful Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Mini food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Grill or oven
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for holding the chicken and vegetables together while cooking. They allow even heat distribution for perfect grilling.
• Mini food processor: Helps create a uniform marinade quickly, ensuring flavors meld well with the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: A necessity for mixing ingredients thoroughly before marinating the chicken.

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 Skewering

• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 and pulse until it becomes 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 pour the marinade over the chicken. Toss well to ensure all pieces are coated evenly.

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 to allow flavors to develop.

Step 4: Prepare Skewers (if using wooden ones)

Soak wooden skewers in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps prevent burning during grilling.

Step 5: Assemble Skewers

Thread alternately onto each skewer; start with chicken then add peppers and onion (chicken, vegetable, chicken, vegetable). This ensures even cooking.

Step 6: Apply Cooking Spray

Spray both sides of the skewers lightly with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking while grilling.

Step 7: Cook on Grill

Place skewers on a hot barbecue grill. Cook while turning frequently until chicken is cooked through (approximately 15 minutes).

Step 8: Alternative Cooking Method

If you prefer baking, arrange skewers on a baking tray and cook in an oven preheated to 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) for about 25-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a grill pan, cooking each side for around 7 minutes.

Step 9: Serve

These delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are great served alongside Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice. Enjoy your flavorful creation!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Serving Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers is easy and fun. These skewers are versatile and can be paired with various sides or garnished to elevate your meal experience. Here are some great serving suggestions.

With Fresh Salsa

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a zesty addition.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa complements the smoky flavors of the skewers beautifully.

On a Bed of Rice

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices adds heartiness to your meal.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: A refreshing twist that pairs well with the barbecue chicken.

Wrapped in Tortillas

• Corn Tortillas: Soft tortillas that make great wraps for the chicken skewers; add toppings like avocado or cheese.
• Flour Tortillas: For a more substantial wrap, flour tortillas can hold more fillings and are delicious with the skewers.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Squash: Grilled veggies enhance the flavors of the skewers while adding color to your plate.
• Corn on the Cob: Charred corn adds a sweet crunch that complements the spicy chicken.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

To achieve perfectly cooked Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, follow these handy tips. From marinating to cooking, each step is vital for flavor and tenderness.

• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to sit in the marinade overnight enhances flavor absorption.
• Use Equal Sizes: Cut chicken and vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking on the skewer.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: Soaking prevents wooden skewers from burning on the grill; aim for at least 30 minutes.
• High Heat Cooking: Cook on high heat for a nice char without drying out the chicken; keep turning frequently.
• Check for Doneness: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving; this keeps them juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Pairing sides with your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Mexican Chopped Salad: A colorful salad filled with fresh veggies, beans, and a zesty dressing that balances the flavors of the skewers.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds richness; serve with tortilla chips or as a topping on your skewers.
3. Refried Beans: Smooth, savory beans that complement the texture and spice of barbecue chicken; serve hot.
4. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice creates a flavorful side dish.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with salsa make an excellent appetizer before diving into your main dish.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a fresh taste alongside rich barbecue flavors.
7. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious side packed with protein; mix quinoa with vegetables and lime dressing for added zest.
8. Cabbage Slaw: Crunchy slaw dressed in vinegar or lime adds brightness and texture to balance out the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Using unseasoned chicken: Always marinate your chicken for a few hours or overnight. This step enhances flavor and ensures tenderness.

• Skipping the soaking of wooden skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

• Overcrowding the skewers: Avoid packing too much chicken and veggies on one skewer. Leave some space between pieces for even cooking.

• Not checking doneness: Ensure your chicken is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) for safety.

• Ignoring resting time: After cooking, let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute, leading to juicier bites.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure they cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• You can freeze cooked skewers for up to 2-3 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers for proper storage.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.

• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and cook the skewers for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

You can pair these skewers with sides like Mexican Chopped Salad or Mexican Rice for a complete meal.

How do I make these skewers gluten-free?

All ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any additional sauces or marinades you use are also gluten-free.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.

How spicy are these Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

The spiciness mainly comes from the jalapeño pepper. For less heat, you can omit it or use a milder pepper variety.

Final Thoughts

These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only flavorful but also versatile. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners alike, they invite endless customization based on your taste preferences. Try adding different vegetables or adjusting spices to make this recipe your own!