Name: Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 75 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons Mexican chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon honey; 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes; Wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Savor the delightful blend of spices and flavors with these Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, perfect for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner. With tender pieces of chicken marinated in a zesty mix of lime, honey, and smoky spices, these skewers are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only easy to make but also deliciously vibrant and packed with flavor. The marinade infuses the chicken with an irresistible tang, and grilling gives it a beautiful char that enhances the overall taste. Serve them at your next barbecue, or simply indulge in a tasty meal any day of the week. These skewers are sure to impress your family and friends, and they are also a great option for meal prep.

Why make this recipe

The allure of Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers lies in their versatility and ease of preparation. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that offers complex flavors and a satisfying texture. The sweet and savory marinade, featuring honey and spices, creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Furthermore, grilling not only enhances the taste but also adds a smoky aroma that is hard to resist. These skewers are perfect for any gathering, allowing for easy serving and a fun, casual dining experience.

Using wooden skewers, which are soaked in water, helps prevent burning during the grilling process and ensures that the chicken remains juicy. You can also customize these skewers to include your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to add color and texture. Whether enjoyed in the backyard or at a picnic, these skewers are bound to elevate any occasion. Plus, the leftovers (if any) make for delicious wraps or salads the following day.

How to make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Creating these flavorful skewers begins with a simple marinade that combines a delightful mix of ingredients. The base of the marinade consists of olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, and a selection of spices that are distinctly Mexican. Each component contributes to the overall flavor profile: the olive oil helps keep the chicken moist, while lime juice adds brightness that cuts through the richness of the meat. Soy sauce introduces an umami backbone, while the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika bring a depth of flavor that characterizes this dish.

After marinating the chicken, which is crucial to achieving a well-rounded taste, threading the chicken onto the soaked skewers is next. This step not only makes for easier grilling but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish. Once grilled to perfection, the chicken skewers should be served hot and adorned with fresh cilantro and lime wedges that guests can squeeze over for an extra burst of flavor. The final result is a dish that is both aesthetically pleasing and mouthwateringly delicious.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons Mexican chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon honey
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and honey. Whisk until well mixed to make a marinade.
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat all pieces thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld.
Preheat a grill or barbecue to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, distributing the pieces evenly.
Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even grilling, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char.
Remove skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Time Breakdown

• Preparation Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

How to serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Serving Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers is an opportunity to showcase their vibrant colors and delicious flavors. Arrange the skewers on a large platter, allowing guests to easily grab them. Garnish with plenty of fresh cilantro for a pop of green and a hint of freshness. The lime wedges should be nestled alongside the skewers, inviting diners to squeeze the citrus over the chicken just before taking a bite. This small act enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing element to each mouthful, ensuring a delightful balance of taste.

These skewers pair beautifully with sides such as Mexican rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh corn salad. Additionally, warm tortillas can be offered, allowing guests to create their own tacos with the chicken skewers. This interactive element enhances the dining experience and makes it a fun and casual meal option, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

How to store Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Proper storage of leftover Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers is essential for retaining their flavor and texture. Once cooked, allow the skewers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. It is best to store leftover chicken skewers in the refrigerator, where they can be kept for up to three days. When reheating, aim to warm them gently in the oven or on a grill to prevent drying out.

If you want to plan ahead, you can also marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers a day in advance, storing them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen overnight, enhancing the final result.

Tips to make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

For the best results with your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, consider a few handy tips. First, ensure that the chicken is cut into uniform pieces to promote even cooking. This consistency will help guarantee that all the pieces reach the desired level of doneness at the same time. Marinating for a longer time, such as overnight, can also deepen the flavors, making every bite more enjoyable.

Do not hesitate to adjust the spices in the marinade according to your family’s preferences. If you prefer a bit more heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños can elevate the spiciness. For those who enjoy a sweeter touch, a bit more honey can enhance the glaze and caramelization on the grill. Additionally, marking the skewers as you grill can enhance the presentation, producing beautiful grill lines on the chicken.

Variation

No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Protein: 31 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fat: 16 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 610 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use another type of meat for skewers?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or even shrimp for different variations.

Q: Can I use an oven instead of a grill?
A: Absolutely! You can broil the skewers in the oven at a high setting for similar results if you don’t have access to a grill.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.