These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are full of flavor and easy to make! Each piece of chicken is marinated in spices and then grilled to juicy perfection—perfect for any barbecue.
I love how colorful they look on the grill, and they disappear fast! Pair them with some fresh veggies or tortillas for a tasty meal that always brings smiles. 🌮😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken is the star of the show. I like using breast for its lean quality, but you can swap it for thighs if you prefer something juicier and more flavorful.
Bell Pepper: Use any color you like! Red, yellow, or green all work well. If you’re not a fan of peppers, zucchini or cherry tomatoes also make great substitutes.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re out, avocado oil or even canola oil are good alternatives. I recommend sticking to oils with a high smoke point for grilling.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika create that delicious Mexican flavor. If you want a milder taste, consider using smoked paprika or just reducing the spice amounts.
Fresh Cilantro: This herb adds freshness. If you’re not a cilantro fan, try parsley or basil for a different flavor twist!
How Do I Properly Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating enhances the chicken’s flavor and tenderness, so it’s worth taking the time. Here’s the best way to do it:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Make sure the garlic is minced well for even flavor distribution.
- Once you add chicken, ensure it’s fully coated. I like to use my hands or a spatula for this, but you can also put everything in a zip-top bag and shake it up.
- Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but if you have 2 hours, that’s even better. This allows the spices to really soak in.
Remember not to marinate for too long, especially with acidic ingredients like lime juice, as it can make the chicken mushy. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. Once prepared, grilling will take about 10-12 minutes. So, expect a total of around 1 hour (including marinating time) to enjoy these tasty skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by mixing the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Stir well until all the ingredients are combined into a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the fridge. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor) while you prepare the rest!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is important for getting those nice grill marks and cooking the chicken evenly.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
While the grill heats up, take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Start assembling your skewers by alternating the chicken cubes with the bell pepper and onion pieces. Place them snugly, but not too tightly, so they cook evenly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Once the grill is nice and hot, carefully place the skewers on the grate. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they are cooked through and have beautiful grill marks.
6. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle and keeps the chicken moist. Before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor!
Enjoy your Mexican BBQ chicken skewers with your favorite dipping sauce or side! They are perfect for gatherings or a delicious family dinner.
Can I Use Other Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or firm tofu. If using shrimp or tofu, adjust the cooking time accordingly; shrimp usually takes about 5-7 minutes, while tofu may take a bit longer, depending on your preference for crispiness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade. Alternatively, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on the skewers before grilling, adjusting the amount to suit your heat preference!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It actually allows the flavors to deepen! Just add the chicken cubes right before you’re ready to grill.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the grill to retain the grilled flavor and texture—microwaving can make them rubbery!
