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Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Irresistible Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers for Guilt-Free Grilling

Enjoy these Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, a flavor-packed dish perfect for guilt-free grilling.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 4 skewers
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 251
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 8 small boneless chicken thighs Can substitute with chicken breasts; adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • 2 cloves garlic Use garlic powder if fresh is not available.
  • 1 jalapeño pepper Can replace with a mild pepper for less heat.
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste Use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce in a pinch.
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 2 teaspoons paprika Smoked paprika can be used for a smoky flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano Fresh oregano is a good alternative.
  • handful fresh coriander (cilantro) Can be omitted if not preferred.
  • salt Essential for seasoned flavoring.
  • black pepper Essential for seasoned flavoring.
For the Skewers
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped Any color bell pepper is suitable.
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 white onion, chopped Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
  • cooking oil spray Can use olive oil or other cooking oil instead.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • food processor
  • skewers
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a food processor, blend the garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, cumin, paprika, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper until you achieve a smooth paste.
  2. Cut the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and coat them thoroughly with the prepared marinade. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or better yet, overnight.
  3. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes prior to grilling.
  4. Take the marinated chicken and alternate threading it onto skewers with vibrant chunks of red, green, and yellow bell peppers, along with pieces of chopped onion.
  5. Before grilling, lightly spray the assembled skewers with cooking oil and preheat your grill to medium heat.
  6. Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for approximately 15 minutes, turning frequently.
  7. If grilling isn’t an option, preheat your oven to 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F, place the skewers on a baking sheet, and cook for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway.
  8. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill or oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1skewerCalories: 251kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 28gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For optimal flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Fresh ingredients improve flavor significantly.

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