Introduction
Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delicious and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your grilling experience. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and chipotle barbecue sauce, then grilled with colorful bell peppers and onions. Perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy dinner at home, these skewers are sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp salt
1 cup barbecue sauce
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
1 tsp adobo sauce
1/8 cup canola oil (for greasing and basting)
Assorted bell peppers (red, green, yellow), cut into chunks
1 white onion, cut into chunks
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15-24 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Total Time: 30-39 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
With these easy-to-follow instructions and vibrant ingredients, you can enjoy a taste of Mexico with every bite. Make sure to serve them warm with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an added burst of flavor!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and salt. Mix well and let it rest for 15 minutes.
Make the Chipotle Barbecue Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, blend together the barbecue sauce, chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce until smooth.
Assemble the Skewers:
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of bell peppers and onion.
Cooking Options:
Grill Pan Method:
Heat a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat. Grease the grill pan with canola oil. Place the skewers on the grill pan and cook each side for about 3 minutes. Brush the skewers with the chipotle barbecue sauce and cook for an additional 3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char.
Outdoor Grill Method:
Preheat the grill to medium heat (about 350°F). Grease the grill grates with canola oil. Place the skewers on the grill and cook each side for about 4 minutes. Brush the skewers with the chipotle barbecue sauce and grill for an additional 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char.
Oven Method:
Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack over it. Grease the rack with canola oil. Place the skewers on the rack and bake for 10 minutes. Brush both sides of the skewers with the chipotle barbecue sauce and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve:
Remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Notes
This recipe is inspired by the Chipotle Barbecue Chicken Kabobs from Ann’s Entitled Life.
Cook techniques
Marinating Chicken
Combine spices with chicken and allow it to rest to enhance flavor.
Making Chipotle Barbecue Sauce
Blend barbecue sauce with chipotle peppers for a smoky, spicy kick.
Skewer Assembly
Alternately thread marinated chicken with vegetables onto skewers for even cooking.
Grill Pan Method
Use a heated grill pan to cook skewers, applying sauce for added flavor.
Outdoor Grill Method
Grill skewers on a preheated grill, basting with sauce for a charred effect.
Oven Method
Bake skewers on a wire rack for even cooking and easy cleanup.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful.
What sides pair well with the skewers?
Rice, beans, and grilled vegetables are excellent choices.
How can I adjust the spiciness?
Reduce or omit the chipotle peppers to decrease heat.
Can I prepare the skewers in advance?
Yes, marinated skewers can be stored in the fridge for a few hours.
What should I do if I don’t have a grill?
The oven method works great for cooking skewers indoors.
Conclusion
The Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delightful mix of tender marinated chicken and vibrant vegetables, all infused with a smoky chipotle barbecue flavor. Perfect for grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, they make for a delicious meal that can easily impress family and friends. Serve with fresh lime and cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
Spicy Chorizo and Chicken Skewers
Combine pieces of chicken thighs with spicy chorizo sausage. Marinate in a blend of spices, lime juice, and olive oil, then grill alongside colorful vegetables.
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Alternate marinated chicken pieces with fresh pineapple chunks on skewers, glazed with a homemade teriyaki sauce, and grilled for a tropical twist.
Vegetable and Tofu Skewers
Use cubes of firm tofu marinated in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, threaded with bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
Garlic Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
Marinate chicken bites in a mixture of garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs. Skewer and cook for a light and flavorful meal.
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Skewers
Toss chicken pieces in a sweet and tangy honey mustard dressing. Thread onto skewers with onions and bell peppers for a delicious sweet-savory profile.
