Print

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 1 review

Delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers marinated with a flavorful blend of spices, jalapeño, lime juice, and fresh coriander, then grilled to perfection with colorful bell peppers and onions. Perfect for a quick and vibrant meal served with Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice.

Ingredients

Chicken and 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, to taste

Vegetables

  • 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

Other

  • Cooking oil spray
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking (if using)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: Add the garlic, jalapeño (with seeds removed), tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, fresh coriander, lime juice, salt, and black pepper to a mini food processor. Pulse until a smooth paste forms, adding a little water as needed to help blend.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Add the marinade to the chicken and toss well to thoroughly coat all the pieces.
  3. Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate the marinated chicken for a few hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Soak skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
  5. Assemble skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces alternately with chopped red, green, yellow bell peppers, and white onion pieces onto the skewers (e.g., chicken, vegetable, chicken, vegetable).
  6. Prepare for cooking: Spray the assembled skewers with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
  7. Grill the skewers: Cook the skewers on a hot barbecue grill, turning frequently to ensure all sides are cooked evenly, for approximately 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
  8. Alternative cooking methods: If not using a barbecue, bake the skewers in the oven at 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) for 25-30 minutes, or cook on a grill pan for about 7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  9. Serve: Serve the Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers hot with Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice for a complete and colorful meal.

Notes

  • Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
  • Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
  • If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the jalapeño pepper.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Vegetables can be swapped or added according to preference.
  • Use cooking oil spray to prevent sticking and avoid excess oil.
  • Great served with side dishes like Mexican rice and salads for a balanced meal.