Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delicious and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of Mexico to your grill. These tender chicken skewers are marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, making them perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners. With their colorful presentation and mouthwatering taste, these skewers will surely impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious skewers in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich flavor that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with rice, salad, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, these skewers make for a nutritious option.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a cozy dinner at home, these skewers fit right in.

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Tools and Preparation

To create the best Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, having the right tools is essential. These will ensure that your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini food processor: Ideal for blending the marinade quickly and efficiently.
• Skewers: They make grilling easy while holding the chicken and vegetables together.
• Grill or oven: Provides versatile cooking methods to achieve perfectly cooked chicken.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for preparing your ingredients safely and effectively.

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’ Veggies

• 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 the spices, jalapeno, lime juice, coriander, salt, and black pepper to a mini food processor.
• Pulse until it forms a paste. If necessary, add water gradually to help it blend smoothly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken with the marinade. Toss until thoroughly coated.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least a few hours or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Prepare Skewers

• If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to prevent burning.
• Alternate threading chicken pieces with chopped peppers and onion onto each skewer.

Step 4: Cook on Grill or Oven

• Spray the assembled skewers with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking.
• Cook on a hot barbecue for about 15 minutes, turning frequently until fully cooked.
• Alternatively, bake in an oven at 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) for 25-30 minutes; grill pan cooking takes about 7 minutes per side.

Step 5: Serve

• Enjoy your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers served alongside Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice for a delightful meal!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Salsa

• Pico de Gallo – A fresh mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice that adds a zesty touch.
• Mango Salsa – Sweet and spicy, this salsa includes mango chunks, jalapeños, and red onion for a tropical twist.

On a Bed of Rice

• Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the skewers perfectly.
• Cilantro Lime Rice – A refreshing side with bright flavors that balances the smokiness of the chicken.

Accompanied by Dipping Sauces

• Chipotle Sauce – Creamy with a smoky kick, it enhances the flavor profile of the skewers.
• Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip adds richness and freshness to each bite.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Corn – Grilled seasonal vegetables provide a colorful and healthy addition to the meal.
• Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Sweet corn on the cob topped with cheese, chili powder, and lime is a perfect companion.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Creating the perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your skewers turn out delicious every time.

• Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor infusion.
• Soak Wooden Skewers – Prevent burning by soaking wooden skewers in water before grilling.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices will elevate the taste of your marinade significantly.
• Preheat Your Grill – A hot grill sears the chicken quickly, locking in juices for tender skewers.
• Alternate Ingredients on Skewers – Alternating chicken and vegetables ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.

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:

1. Mexican Chopped Salad – A vibrant salad loaded with vegetables that provides crunch and freshness.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy beans seasoned with spices offer a hearty complement to your skewers.
3. Corn Tortillas – Soft tortillas are perfect for wrapping around pieces of skewered chicken for easy bites.
4. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a nutritious green element to your plate.
5. Fried Plantains – Sweet fried plantains contrast beautifully with savory flavors from the skewers.
6. Chili Lime Corn Salad – A tangy corn salad tossed with chili powder brings zest to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can result in bland skewers. Aim for at least a few hours, preferably overnight, to enhance flavor.
• Using Dry Spices Only: Relying solely on dry spices without fresh ingredients can lessen the dish’s vibrancy. Always include fresh herbs and ingredients like jalapeño and lime juice for a punch of flavor.
• Cutting Chicken Unevenly: If the chicken pieces are not uniform in size, they will cook unevenly. Aim for bite-sized pieces that are consistent in thickness for even cooking.
• Neglecting Soaking Wooden Skewers: Forgetting to soak wooden skewers can lead to burning on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent this.
• Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto each skewer can hinder proper cooking. Leave some space between pieces for even heat distribution.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking skewers too quickly or at too high a temperature can burn them. Monitor closely and adjust cooking times as needed for juicy chicken.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Wrap skewers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 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 warm.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Cook skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers:

What is the best marinade for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

A blend of garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, and spices creates an amazing marinade that enhances the chicken’s flavor.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or even tofu for delicious alternatives that still align with the Mexican barbecue theme.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness accurately.

Are Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses no wheat-based ingredients.

What sides go well with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

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

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only packed with flavor but also offer versatility for any occasion. You can customize the vegetables or adjust spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful barbecue meal that everyone will love!