Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are the perfect addition to your summer cookouts or family gatherings. These skewers feature tender chicken marinated in a delightful blend of Mexican spices, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also cater to various dietary preferences, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The marinade combines garlic, jalapeño, and spices for a truly vibrant taste.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, these skewers can be made quickly for an impromptu barbecue.
• Versatile Options: Serve them on their own or with sides like Mexican Chopped Salad and rice for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty chicken skewers.
• Healthy Choice: Low in calories and packed with protein, they make a nutritious option for any diet.

Tools and Preparation

To make delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, you will need a few essential tools that simplify the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini food processor
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Grill or oven
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini food processor: This tool helps blend the marinade quickly and efficiently, ensuring even flavor distribution.
• Skewers: They are crucial for holding the chicken and vegetables together while cooking, allowing for even grilling.
• Grill or oven: Either cooking method provides excellent results, giving you flexibility based on your preference or available equipment.

Ingredients

Mexican Barbecue – tender chicken skewers marinated with a delicious Mexican blend of spices for the perfect barbecue meal.

For the Chicken Skewers

• 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 Vegetable 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

Additional Ingredient

• 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 you achieve a smooth paste. If necessary, add water gradually to help it blend.

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 thoroughly to coat each piece evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least for a few hours to enhance flavors.

Step 3: Prepare Skewers

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to prevent burning.
2. Thread 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 for about 15 minutes, turning frequently until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Alternatively, bake in an oven preheated to 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) for 25-30 minutes or grill on a pan for approximately 7 minutes each side.

Enjoy your flavorful Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers served alongside your favorite sides!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds a zesty crunch.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy mango salsa pairs beautifully with the smoky flavors of the chicken.

Accompanied by Dips

• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip brings richness and balances the spices in the skewers.
• Chipotle Ranch Dressing: This creamy dressing offers a nice kick and can be drizzled over or served on the side.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens: Place the skewers atop a bed of mixed greens for a light, refreshing meal.
• Caesar Salad: The rich flavors of Caesar salad complement the skewers well.

With Grains

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices is a classic pairing that soaks up all the flavors.
• Quinoa Salad: A healthy alternative, quinoa salad adds texture and nutrition to your plate.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Creating perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they come out delicious every time.

• Marinate Overnight: Giving the chicken time to absorb the marinade enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Uniform Pieces: Cut chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking on the grill.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: Soaking prevents wooden skewers from burning on the grill, ensuring they hold together during cooking.
• Cook Over High Heat: High heat gives you beautiful char marks while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Turn Frequently: Rotate skewers often to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

To create a well-rounded meal with your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, consider these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall flavor profile.

1. Mexican Chopped Salad: A colorful mix of lettuce, tomatoes, corn, and beans tossed in lime vinaigrette.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a hearty contrast to the grilled chicken.
3. Elote (Corn on the Cob): Grilled corn slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder offers sweet and spicy notes.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime for added freshness complements your skewers perfectly.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and asparagus bring vibrant colors and flavors to your plate.
6. Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with your favorite salsa add a fun element to any gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, a few common mistakes can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Ignoring 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, to let the flavors penetrate the meat.

• Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too much onto each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Space out the chicken and vegetables slightly to ensure even heat distribution.

• Skipping the Soak for Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, failing to soak them can cause them to burn on the grill. Soak in warm water for at least 30 minutes before use.

• Neglecting Temperature Control: Cooking on too high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Maintain a medium-high temperature and turn frequently for even cooking.

• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old vegetables can diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh ingredients for the best taste and quality.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.

• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can bake these skewers in your oven or use a grill pan on your stovetop as an alternative cooking method.

Are Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers spicy?

The spice level depends on how much jalapeño you include. Adjust it based on your preference!

How do I customize these skewers?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or swap out proteins like shrimp or beef for variety!

Can I make them ahead of time?

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

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different vegetables or proteins according to your taste. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, give this recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful meal that everyone will love!