Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Name: Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 small boneless chicken thighs (approx 650g/22.5oz); 2 cloves of garlic; 1 jalapeño pepper; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons cumin; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; Juice of half a lime; Salt and black pepper; Mixed bell peppers (red, green, yellow) and onion for skewering

Recipe By:

Stephanie

Posted:

July 30, 2025

Updated:

July 30, 2025

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Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delightful treat that brings vibrant flavors to your table. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home, these skewers feature tender chicken marinated in a zesty blend of Mexican spices. The combination of juicy meat and colorful vegetables makes this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy the smoky aroma and rich flavors that will impress your guests and elevate any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: Each bite is packed with a delightful mix of spices, garlic, and lime that shines through.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and quick prep time, you can whip up this dish effortlessly.
Versatile Meal Option: These skewers can be grilled or baked, making them perfect for any cooking method or occasion.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, they make for a nutritious addition to your diet.
Great for Sharing: Perfectly sized for gatherings, these skewers are ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, gather the right tools. Having the proper equipment will ensure you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skewers (wooden or metal)
Mini food processor
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Grill or oven

Importance of Each Tool

Skewers: Essential for holding the chicken and vegetables together while cooking; choose wooden or metal based on preference.
Mini food processor: Helps blend spices and create a smooth marinade quickly; saves time compared to manual mixing.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients efficiently; ensures cleanliness in food preparation.

Ingredients

Mexican Barbecue – tender chicken skewers marinated with a delicious Mexican blend of spices for the perfect barbecue meal.

For the Chicken Marinade

8 small boneless chicken thighs, any visible fat removed (approx 650g/22.5oz)
2 cloves of garlic
1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed
3 tablespoons of tomato paste
2 teaspoons of cumin
2 teaspoons of paprika
1/2 teaspoon of oregano
handful of fresh coriander
juice of half a lime
salt and black pepper

For the Vegetable Skewers

1 red bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
1 green bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
1 white onion, chopped into square pieces
cooking oil spray

How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Add the spices, jalapeño, lime juice, coriander, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper to a mini food processor.
Pulse until it forms a paste. If needed, add water gradually to assist blending.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
Place the chicken in a bowl and add the marinade. Toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with bell pepper pieces and onion squares.

Step 4: Cook the Skewers

Preheat your grill or oven as appropriate.
Spray the assembled skewers with cooking oil spray.
Cook on a hot barbecue, turning frequently until chicken is cooked through (approximately 15 minutes).
Alternatively, bake in an oven at 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) for about 25-30 minutes or grill on a pan for approximately 7 minutes on each side.

Enjoy your flavorful Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers served alongside Mexican Chopped Salad or Mexican Rice!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner. They pair well with various sides and drinks, enhancing the flavors of the dish.

With Fresh Salads

Mexican Chopped Salad – A zesty mix of tomatoes, corn, and avocado that complements the skewers.
Cucumber and Tomato Salad – Refreshing and light, this salad offers a crisp contrast to the spicy chicken.

With Grains

Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices that pairs wonderfully with the barbecue flavors.
Quinoa Salad – A nutritious option that adds texture and can be flavored with lime and cilantro.

With Dips

Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip that enhances the Mexican flavors of the skewers.
Salsa Verde – A tangy green sauce made from tomatillos that adds a fresh kick.

With Beverages

Margaritas – A classic cocktail that balances the spiciness of the chicken.
Horchata – A sweet rice drink that provides a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

To achieve the best flavor and tenderness in your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, follow these helpful tips.

Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor absorption.
Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh spices and herbs give a vibrant taste compared to dried ones.
Soak Wooden Skewers – This prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring even cooking.
Cut Evenly – Dice chicken and vegetables into uniform pieces for consistent cooking times.
Preheat Grill or Oven – A hot cooking surface seals in juices quickly, keeping chicken moist.
Rotate Frequently – Turning skewers while grilling ensures even cooking and prevents charring.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Pair your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal.

Mexican Rice – Seasoned with spices, this rice is fluffy and flavorful, making it an ideal side.
Refried Beans – Creamy beans loaded with flavor provide protein and balance out the meal.
Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn sprinkled with chili powder adds sweetness and crunch.
Grilled Vegetables – Mixed veggies like zucchini and mushrooms complement the skewers’ flavors perfectly.
Pico de Gallo – Fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and freshness to your plate.
Avocado Salad – Creamy avocados mixed with lime juice create a refreshing accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Marinade Mistake: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland skewers. Aim for at least a few hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Skewer Soaking Oversight: Forgetting to soak wooden skewers can result in them burning on the grill. Always soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before use.
Ingredient Substitutions: Using dried herbs instead of fresh might change the flavor profile significantly. Stick with fresh coriander and spices for the best results.
Overcrowding Skewers: Packing too tightly can lead to uneven cooking. Space out your chicken and veggies enough for proper heat distribution.
Ignoring Cooking Times: Not monitoring cooking times could cause dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Freeze cooked skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm skewers for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Stovetop: Sauté on low heat in a pan until heated through, usually about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers.

What can I serve with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

You can enjoy these skewers with side dishes like Mexican Chopped Salad or fluffy Mexican Rice for a complete meal.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight or at least for a few hours before grilling.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with pork or beef if you prefer different proteins while keeping the marinade similar.

Are Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free as it does not include any gluten-containing ingredients.

How do I customize my skewers?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or adjust the spice level by adding more jalapeño!

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are an incredible option for your next cookout or family dinner. They are easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making them perfect for customization. Try adding different vegetables or spices based on your preferences!