🌶️ Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Juicy, smoky, and full of bold flavor—this is summer grilling done right.
These Mexican-inspired grilled chicken skewers are everything you want in a warm-weather meal: zesty, colorful, and easy to prep ahead. Marinated in a vibrant blend of tomato, lime, garlic, and spices, the chicken stays wonderfully tender, while the trio of bell peppers and onions brings the crunch and color to the party.
🍗 Ingredients:
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 650g), diced
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 jalapeño (seeds removed for mild heat)
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp sweet paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- Juice of ½ lime
- Handful of fresh coriander (cilantro)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 red, 1 green, 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 white onion, chopped
- Cooking spray or a little oil for grilling
- Wooden or metal skewers
🔪 Instructions:
- Make the marinade:
In a food processor, blend garlic, jalapeño, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, lime juice, coriander, salt, and pepper until smooth. - Marinate the chicken:
Coat the diced chicken in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for max flavor). - Prep the skewers:
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. - Assemble the skewers:
Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onion alternately onto skewers for a colorful pattern. - Cook the skewers:
- Grill method: Spray skewers with oil and cook on a preheated grill for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Oven method: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Stovetop method: Use a grill pan over medium heat, cooking each side for about 6–7 minutes.
⏱ Quick Info:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15–30 minutes depending on method
- Total Time: About 45–60 minutes
- Calories: ~251 kcal per skewer
- Servings: 4–6 skewers
🌟 Pro Tips:
- Add a splash of orange juice to the marinade for a subtle sweetness.
- For extra char, finish the skewers directly over high heat for 1–2 minutes per side.
- Serve with cilantro-lime rice, grilled corn, or a fresh avocado salad.
💬 Final Thoughts:
These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers prove you don’t need a fancy setup to create bold, memorable meals. Whether you grill them outdoors or roast them in the oven, they deliver serious flavor with minimal fuss. Great for meal prep, cookouts, or weeknight dinners that don’t feel basic.
