These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are packed with fun flavors! Juicy chicken is marinated in a spicy, zesty sauce and grilled to perfection on skewers—perfect for any cookout.
I’m always excited to pull these off the grill because they smell amazing! Plus, they’re great for sharing, or not—no judgment if you want them all to yourself! 😂
What I love most is how easy they are to whip up. Just marinate, skewer, and grill. The tasty mix of spices really makes them a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender. If you prefer, you can substitute with boneless chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out.
Bell Peppers: The colorful mix of red, yellow, and green peppers not only looks great but adds sweet and slightly tangy flavors. Feel free to swap for zucchini, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes if you want to vary the flavors and textures.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness to the marinade. You can also try avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Both are great alternatives!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens everything up. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice works in a pinch. Just remember, it will slightly change the flavor.
Spices: Chili powder, paprika, and cumin create a robust flavor base. If you want a bit more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
How Do I Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is a game-changer for infusing the chicken with flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl, ensuring they’re well combined.
- Add the chicken pieces and toss them so they’re completely coated. This helps every bite be flavorful!
- Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you can marinate for up to 2 hours, that’s even better.
Keep in mind – too long in an acidic marinade can make the chicken mushy, so don’t exceed 2 hours! Just enough time is all you need for delicious results.
How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, cut into chunks
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. Total, you will spend around 45 minutes to enjoy delicious Mexican barbecue chicken skewers that are perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are combined into a lovely marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade and toss them around to make sure they get a nice coating. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For best results, let it soak up the flavors for up to 2 hours!
3. Prepare and Thread the Skewers:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Then, take your soaked wooden skewers and thread them with marinated chicken pieces, alternating with red, yellow, and green bell pepper chunks and onion pieces. This will make your skewers colorful and tasty!
4. Grill the Skewers:
Put the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle in. Serve your skewers hot, and if you like, garnish them with fresh cilantro for a little extra flavor. Enjoy your Mexican barbecue chicken skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs, but keep in mind that they tend to be drier. To keep them juicy, marinate them for the full 2 hours and be careful not to overcook them on the grill. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lime Juice?
No problem! You can use bottled lime juice as a substitute. Generally, use about half the amount as fresh lime juice can have a more vibrant flavor. If you prefer, vinegar (like apple cider or white vinegar) can also work for a tangy kick.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a grill or in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep them moist during reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Skewers?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even pineapple can add great flavors and textures. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
