It looks like you’ve shared a link to an image of Mexican barbecue chicken skewers! Unfortunately, I can’t view images directly. However, if you would like a paragraph description or a recipe summary for those skewers, just let me know!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts makes for quick cooking. However, you could swap it with chicken thighs for a juicier option that stays tender on the grill.
Bell Peppers: The colorful mix of red, yellow, and green peppers adds sweetness and crunch. Feel free to substitute with zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for a different take on your skewers.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps with grilling. You can replace it with avocado oil for a higher smoke point or vegetable oil if that’s what you have handy.
Spices: Chili powder and smoked paprika give great flavor. If you prefer less heat, reduce the chili powder or use sweet paprika. Cumin adds warmth; you could substitute it with coriander if you want a different flavor profile.
Fresh Cilantro: Cilantro adds freshness at the end. If you’re not a fan, parsley works well as a garnish too. Some people also enjoy a squeeze of extra lime for a zesty finish.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but with a few steps, you’ll have them perfect every time. Start by marinating the chicken; this not only adds flavor but also helps keep it juicy.
- Make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high; a hot grill helps sear the meat and get those lovely grill marks.
- Thread the chicken and veggies on the skewers evenly to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding them.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. This allows the chicken to cook evenly without drying out. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe.
- Let the skewers rest a few minutes after removing them from the grill before serving; this helps retain the juices.
How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 onion, cut into squares
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes prior)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour of prep time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (preferably overnight). Cooking on the grill will take around 10-15 minutes. Overall, you should plan for a total of about 2 hours before you can enjoy your delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, lime juice, salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed. This will be your flavorful marinade for the chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure each piece of chicken is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, let it marinate overnight!
3. Prepare the Skewers:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken pieces onto your skewers, alternating with red, yellow, and green bell pepper squares and onion squares. This not only looks great but adds extra flavor!
4. Grill the Skewers:
Once the grill is hot, carefully place the skewers on the grill. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes, turning the skewers occasionally. You want the chicken to cook through and develop those delicious grill marks! Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When the skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your tasty Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even pineapple can be great alternatives that complement the chicken well. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the veggies you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Chili Powder?
No worries! You can create a substitute by mixing equal parts paprika and cayenne pepper, or try using taco seasoning in its place for a similar flavor profile. Just adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven or on the grill for a few minutes to get that grilled effect back!
What Can I Serve With These Skewers?
These chicken skewers pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with tortillas for a fun taco night or alongside guacamole for a tasty dip!
