Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delightful treat that combines tender chicken with a vibrant mix of spices. Perfect for family gatherings, backyard barbecues, or even a cozy dinner, these skewers bring a burst of flavor to any occasion. The unique marination process ensures every bite is juicy and infused with the essence of Mexican cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time and effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these skewers as an appetizer, main course, or alongside your favorite sides like rice or salad for a complete meal.
• Healthy Option: Made with lean chicken and colorful vegetables, these skewers are a great choice for those looking to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather the essentials before you start preparing your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers.

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: This tool helps blend the marinade quickly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined for maximum flavor.
• Skewers: Using skewers makes it easy to grill multiple pieces of chicken and vegetables at once, enhancing presentation and cooking efficiency.

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

Cooking Essentials

• cooking oil spray

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. Pulse until a paste forms. If needed, add water gradually to help it blend 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. Toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated.

Step 3: Refrigerate

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least a few hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Soak 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 along with alternating pieces of peppers and onion (chicken, vegetable, chicken, vegetable pattern works best).

Step 6: Prepare for Cooking

Spray the assembled skewers lightly with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking during grilling.

Step 7: Grill or Bake

Cook on a hot barbecue while turning frequently until the chicken is cooked through (approximately 15 minutes). 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 for about 7 minutes on each side.

Step 8: Serve

These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers pair wonderfully with sides like Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice. Enjoy!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these skewers are sure to impress. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Fresh Salsas

• Pico de Gallo – A zesty mix of diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds freshness.
• Mango Salsa – Sweet and tangy mango salsa complements the spicy chicken perfectly.

Over a Bed of Rice

• Mexican Rice – Serve the skewers over seasoned Mexican rice for a complete meal.
• Cauliflower Rice – For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a great alternative.

Accompanied by Dips

• Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip enhances the flavor of the skewers.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream balances the spices beautifully.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled Corn – Sweet and smoky corn on the cob pairs well with the chicken.
• Zucchini and Squash – Lightly grilled veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Perfecting your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers takes some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Marinate Overnight – Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight infuses more flavor into the meat.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the taste significantly.
• Alternate Ingredients on Skewers – Alternating chicken with vegetables ensures even cooking and adds visual appeal.
• Preheat Your Grill – A hot grill seals in juices and creates those perfect grill marks.
• Check Internal Temperature – Always ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
• Let Rest Before Serving – Allowing skewers to rest for a few minutes helps retain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

When serving Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes. These sides will elevate your meal experience.

1. Mexican Chopped Salad – A colorful mix of veggies drizzled with lime dressing offers crunch and freshness.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans provide a hearty balance to the skewers’ flavors.
3. Corn Tortillas – Warm tortillas are perfect for wrapping around everything on your plate.
4. Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Grilled corn topped with cheese, chili powder, and lime creates a flavorful side.
5. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed salad with fresh veggies is light and nutritious.
6. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a healthy green contrast.
7. Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips paired with salsa make for an excellent appetizer before the main course.
8. Baked Potatoes – Loaded baked potatoes can serve as a filling side that complements the skewers nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland skewers. Aim for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many ingredients on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Space out the chicken and vegetables to ensure they cook evenly.
• Ignoring Temperature Checks: Not checking if the chicken is fully cooked can lead to food safety issues. Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Using Dull Skewers: Wooden skewers that aren’t soaked or metal skewers that are not greased can lead to sticking. Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes and lightly oil metal ones to prevent sticking.
• Cooking Over High Heat Only: Cooking at too high of a temperature can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Start with medium heat and adjust as needed to cook through without burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover skewers in an airtight container.
• Keep them for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Place skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Arrange skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water. Cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers unique?

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are unique due to their vibrant marinade made from authentic spices like cumin, paprika, and jalapeño, which offer bold flavors typical of Mexican cuisine.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken thighs, you can also use beef, pork, or shrimp as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

How do I serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with sides like Mexican Chopped Salad or Mexican Rice. Feel free to add dips like guacamole or salsa for extra flavor!

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and marinate the chicken skewers ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them.

Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?

Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any sauces or additional spices used are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes and occasions. Their vibrant flavors make them perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust spice levels according to your preference! Enjoy this delightful dish today!