Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers: The Ultimate Grilling Recipe

Mexican barbecue chicken skewers are about to become your new favorite way to grill! Imagine juicy, tender chicken, marinated in a vibrant blend of smoky chipotle peppers, zesty lime, and a medley of warm spices. These aren’t your average barbecue skewers; they’re a fiesta on a stick, bursting with authentic Mexican flavors that will transport your taste buds south of the border.

While the exact origins of skewered meats are difficult to pinpoint, the concept of cooking food on a stick has been around for centuries across various cultures. In Mexico, grilling and marinating meats are deeply rooted traditions, often associated with celebrations and family gatherings. This recipe for Mexican barbecue chicken skewers draws inspiration from those time-honored techniques, combining them with the convenience and fun of modern grilling.

What makes these skewers so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory. The chicken is incredibly moist and flavorful, thanks to the marinade, and the slight char from the grill adds a delightful smoky note. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a casual weeknight dinner, or simply craving a taste of Mexico, these skewers are guaranteed to be a hit. Get ready to fire up the grill and experience the magic of Mexican barbecue!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (15 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
• For the Mexican Barbecue Marinade:
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• For Serving (Optional):
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
• Warm tortillas, for serving

Preparing the Mexican Barbecue Marinade:

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of this recipe – the marinade! This is where all the amazing Mexican barbecue flavor comes from. Trust me, it’s worth the little bit of effort.

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined so there are no clumps of spices.
2. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
3. Pour the sautéed garlic and olive oil into the bowl with the other marinade ingredients. Whisk everything together until well combined. This step helps to bloom the garlic flavor and infuse it into the marinade.
4. Taste the marinade and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you want it sweeter, add a little more brown sugar. For more heat, add a pinch more cayenne pepper. If it’s too sweet, add a splash more apple cider vinegar. Remember, you can always adjust to your personal preference!

Marinating the Chicken and Vegetables:

Now that we have our flavorful marinade ready, it’s time to get the chicken and vegetables soaking in all that goodness. This step is crucial for tender, juicy, and flavorful skewers.

1. In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine the cubed chicken, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion, and pineapple chunks.
2. Pour the Mexican barbecue marinade over the chicken and vegetables. Make sure everything is evenly coated with the marinade. You can use your hands (wearing gloves, if desired) to gently massage the marinade into the chicken and vegetables.
3. Cover the bowl or seal the plastic bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. I usually aim for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal.
4. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will prevent them from burning on the grill.

Assembling the Skewers:

Time to get creative and assemble our skewers! This is where you can really customize them to your liking. I like to alternate the chicken and vegetables for a colorful and balanced skewer.

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, you can also use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the skewers in the oven.
2. Remove the chicken and vegetables from the marinade. Discard the marinade. Don’t reuse it, as it has been in contact with raw chicken.
3. Thread the chicken, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion, and pineapple chunks onto the skewers. Alternate the ingredients to create a visually appealing and balanced skewer. You can arrange them in any order you like. I usually start and end with a piece of chicken to help hold everything together.
4. Try to avoid overcrowding the skewers, as this can prevent the chicken and vegetables from cooking evenly. Leave a little space between each piece.

Grilling the Skewers:

Finally, the moment we’ve been waiting for – grilling those delicious skewers! This is where the magic happens, and the flavors really come together.

1. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the skewers from sticking.
2. Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. During the last few minutes of grilling, you can brush the skewers with a little extra marinade (optional) for added flavor and a glossy finish. Be careful not to burn the marinade, as it contains sugar.
4. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Alternative Cooking Methods:

Don’t have a grill? No problem! You can still enjoy these delicious Mexican barbecue chicken skewers using other cooking methods.

Grill Pan:

1. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Lightly oil the grill pan.
3. Place the skewers on the grill pan and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.

Oven Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the skewers on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. For a more charred effect, you can broil the skewers for the last few minutes of cooking, but be careful not to burn them.

Serving Suggestions:

These Mexican barbecue chicken skewers are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when served with some tasty sides and garnishes.

• Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.
• Serve with cooked rice or quinoa.
• Serve with warm tortillas for making tacos or wraps.
• Serve with a side of guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.
• Serve with a fresh salad or coleslaw.

Enjoy! I hope you love these Mexican barbecue chicken skewers as much as I do. They’re perfect for a summer barbecue, a weeknight dinner, or any occasion where you want a flavorful and easy meal.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another chicken skewer recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The vibrant blend of Mexican spices, the smoky char from the grill, and the juicy tenderness of the chicken all combine to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. I genuinely believe that these Mexican barbecue chicken skewers are a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and easy grilling.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s incredibly versatile! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, packing a picnic lunch, or simply looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, these skewers fit the bill perfectly. The marinade is simple to whip up, the grilling time is minimal, and the results are consistently amazing. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce a little bit of Mexican flair into your everyday cooking.

But the best part? You can totally customize it to your liking!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Skewers: Serve them straight off the grill with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete and satisfying meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cotija cheese adds a nice finishing touch.
* Taco Night Upgrade: Use the grilled chicken to fill warm tortillas for the most amazing tacos you’ve ever tasted! Top with your favorite taco fixings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
* Salad Sensation: Slice the grilled chicken and toss it with a vibrant salad of mixed greens, corn, black beans, avocado, and a zesty lime vinaigrette. It’s a healthy and flavorful option for lunch or dinner.
* Quesadilla Filling: Chop the chicken and use it as a filling for quesadillas. Add some cheese, peppers, and onions for a truly delicious and satisfying snack or meal.
* Spice It Up: If you like a little extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños to the marinade.
* Sweeten the Deal: For a sweeter flavor profile, add a tablespoon of honey or agave nectar to the marinade.
* Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for bell peppers, zucchini, and onions for a delicious vegetarian version. Marinate the vegetables in the same sauce and grill until tender.
* Pineapple Power: Add chunks of pineapple to the skewers for a tropical twist. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory spices beautifully.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I know you’ll love the explosion of flavors and the ease of preparation. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait to hear what you think.

So, fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of these Mexican barbecue chicken skewers. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and find your perfect combination.

Once you’ve tried it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below! I’d love to hear what you thought of the recipe, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating delicious and easy-to-follow recipes that you’ll love. Happy grilling! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do.