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
- 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.
- 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.
- Soak skewers: To prevent wooden skewers from burning during cooking, soak them in warm water for 30 minutes before assembling.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (grilling) or 25-30 minutes (baking)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican