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Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers Recipe

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4.2 from 66 reviews

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in a spicy Mexican blend. Paired with colorful bell peppers and onions, these skewers bring a perfect balance of smoky, zesty flavors ideal for grilling or baking. Perfect for backyard BBQs or cozy dinners, they can be served with fresh salsa or your favorite dipping sauce for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including minimum marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

  • 8 small boneless chicken thighs
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 jalapeño pepper
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Vegetables

  • Assorted bell peppers (red, green, yellow), cut into pieces
  • 1 white onion, cut into pieces
  • Wooden skewers (soaked in warm water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a mini food processor, combine garlic, jalapeño, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, lime juice, salt, and black pepper to create a smooth and spicy marinade.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a mixing bowl and coat thoroughly with the prepared marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight to enhance the flavors.
  3. Soak skewers: To prevent wooden skewers from burning during cooking, soak them in warm water for 30 minutes before assembling.
  4. Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers alternately with pieces of assorted bell peppers and white onion, ensuring an even distribution of meat and vegetables.
  5. Cook the skewers: Grill the assembled skewers on medium heat for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, bake them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
  6. Serve: Serve the Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers hot, accompanied by fresh salsa or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken overnight will yield more tender and flavorful results.
  • Soaking skewers is essential to avoid burning on the grill or in the oven.
  • You can substitute chicken thighs with breasts, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.
  • Adjust the amount of jalapeño to control the spiciness of the dish.
  • These skewers can also be cooked using an air fryer at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes (grilling) or 25-30 minutes (baking)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican