Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

There’s something magical about meals shared under an open sky—where sizzling skewers, laughter, and a warm breeze turn a simple dinner into a cherished memory. For me, the taste of summer is always tied to Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers. The smoky aroma of grilled chicken mingled with spices, the colorful blend of bell peppers, and that unmistakable burst of citrus all bring back sunny weekends with family gathered around the grill.

These skewers are inspired by the lively street food scene of Mexico, where food is more than sustenance—it’s culture, celebration, and connection. Whether enjoyed during summer fiestas or casual backyard gatherings, this dish brings together the bold flavors of traditional Mexican barbecue and the joy of cooking outside. It’s food that invites you to slow down, share stories, and savor each bite.

Skewers, or “brochetas” as they’re known in Mexico, are a popular way to cook meats over fire. The marinade used here mirrors the earthy warmth of traditional Mexican spices—cumin, paprika, garlic, and chili—balanced with the freshness of lime and coriander. It’s a delicious way to honor the rich culinary heritage of Mexico while keeping things healthy, vibrant, and simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Authentic Mexican Flavor: Infused with spices like cumin and paprika, this dish brings real depth and zing to your barbecue table.
• Fresh and Colorful: Bell peppers and onions not only add crunch but also beautiful color.
• Great for Entertaining: Easy to make in batches and visually impressive—perfect for guests.
• Flexible Cooking Methods: Can be grilled, oven-roasted, or cooked in a grill pan indoors.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 8 small boneless chicken thighs (approx. 650g), trimmed of visible fat
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Handful of fresh coriander (cilantro)
• Juice of ½ a lime
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped into squares
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped into squares
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped into squares
• 1 white onion, chopped into squares
• Cooking oil spray

HOW TO MAKE MEXICAN BARBECUE CHICKEN SKEWERS:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Blend the Marinade
   Start with the marinade—this is where the flavor magic begins. Add the garlic, jalapeño, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, lime juice, salt, and pepper to a small blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. You might need to add a splash of water to get the right consistency.
2. Marinate the Chicken
   Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and place them in a mixing bowl. Pour over the marinade and toss to coat each piece. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is best to develop deeper flavor.
3. Prepare the Vegetables and Skewers
   While the chicken marinates, chop your bell peppers and onion into uniform chunks. If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

1. Assemble the Skewers
   Alternate pieces of chicken, pepper, and onion as you thread them onto the skewers. This not only ensures even cooking but makes for a beautiful presentation.
2. Choose Your Cooking Method
   • Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly spray the skewers with cooking oil. Grill for 12–15 minutes, turning every few minutes for an even char and cooked center.
   • Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with parchment and place the skewers on top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
   • Stovetop: Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Lightly spray and cook the skewers for about 7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.
3. Serve and Enjoy
   Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. These go wonderfully with Mexican rice, cilantro-lime quinoa, grilled corn, or wrapped in soft tortillas with a dollop of guacamole.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Don’t Skip the Marination: A longer marination time means juicier, more flavorful chicken.
• Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: They stay moist and tender on the grill. Chicken breasts can be used, but be mindful not to overcook.
• Skewer Balance: Don’t overcrowd the skewers—allow space between ingredients to ensure even cooking.
• Go Bold with Sides: Pair with spicy black beans, a squeeze of lime, or a fresh salsa for an extra punch.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marination)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marination)
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling, Baking, or Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

NOTES:

• If you’re planning a gathering, double or triple the recipe—guests always come back for seconds.
• This dish is great for meal prep too—refrigerate cooked skewers and use them in wraps or salads during the week.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

Each serving is packed with protein, low in saturated fat, and high in fiber thanks to the colorful vegetables. A great fit for balanced diets and lean eating plans.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use beef or lamb instead of chicken?
Yes! This marinade complements lamb chunks and beef skewers beautifully. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

How spicy is this dish?
Moderately spicy. To reduce heat, remove all seeds from the jalapeño or substitute with a milder chili.

Can I cook these ahead of time?
You can marinate and assemble the skewers in advance. Cook them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Refrigerate any leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce
• Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

CONCLUSION:

These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a celebration of flavor, color, and community. They’re the kind of dish that makes people linger at the table just a little longer, reaching for one more skewer, sharing stories, and enjoying every bite. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or cozying up indoors, this recipe delivers a taste of summer all year round.

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