Name: Savory Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers for Perfect Grilling
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (Cut into cubes); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Can substitute with avocado oil); 1/4 cup Lime Juice (Or lemon juice if out of limes); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Or tamari for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons Mexican Chili Powder (Or a mix of paprika, cumin and cayenne); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (Can be omitted); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Use regular paprika in a pinch); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Can use fresh minced garlic); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Fresh onions can work); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 1 tablespoon Honey (Or maple syrup for vegan option); 8 pieces Wooden Skewers (Soak in water beforehand); 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (Can be omitted); 2 wedges Lime (For serving)

The sizzle of chicken on the grill is music to my ears, especially when it’s drizzled in a vibrant marinade that sings with Mexican flavors. These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delightful fusion of smoky, tangy, and mildly sweet elements, making them the perfect centerpiece for any backyard gathering or cozy family dinner. As a beginner-friendly recipe, it invites even those just starting their culinary journey to shine, transforming simple grilled chicken into a festive masterpiece. One of the best perks? You can whip these up in under an hour, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family. Plus, they’re versatile enough to suit everyone’s palate—think about adding colorful veggies for an extra pop! Curious to take your grilling skills to the next level? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!

Why Are These Skewers So Irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a burst of vibrant Mexican flavors, thanks to the zesty marinade that marries smoky, sweet, and tangy elements beautifully.

Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re new to grilling, these skewers are simple to make, ensuring success on your first try.

Versatile Hosting: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy weeknight meal; they can be paired with sides like a fresh salad or rice.

Quick to Prepare: Ready to serve in under an hour, you can have a crowd-pleasing dish without spending all day in the kitchen—just like our delicious Honey BBQ Chicken that saves time without sacrificing flavor!

Crowd-Pleaser: Since they appeal to a wide range of tastes, everyone—from family to friends—will be coming back for seconds!

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers Ingredients

For the Marinade

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – Main protein for juicy skewers; turkey breast is a great lighter substitute.
Olive Oil – Adds moisture and richness; feel free to use avocado oil for a similar flavor.
Lime Juice – Infuses vibrant acidity and tang; lemon juice is a perfect substitute if you’re out of limes.
Soy Sauce – Provides essential umami; swap it with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Mexican Chili Powder – The star flavor profile; if unavailable, a mix of paprika, cumin, and cayenne works wonders.
Ground Cumin – Enhances earthy notes; it can be omitted for a milder flavor.
Smoked Paprika – Adds a delightful smoky undertone; substitute with regular paprika in a pinch.
Garlic Powder – Brings savory depth; fresh minced garlic can give an extra punch of flavor.
Onion Powder – Balances overall flavors; fresh onions can work but may affect texture.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for that final burst of seasoning; adjust these to your taste.
Honey – Offers a touch of sweetness; maple syrup can replace honey for a vegan-friendly twist.

For Assembly

Wooden Skewers – Necessary for threading your marinated chicken pieces; soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning.
Fresh Cilantro – A garnish that adds flavor and fresh color; feel free to omit if cilantro is not to your liking.
Lime Wedges – For serving and a fresh citrus squeeze that enhances the dish, perfect for these Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1/4 cup of lime juice, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of Mexican chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Add salt and black pepper to taste, along with 1 tablespoon of honey for a hint of sweetness. This zesty marinade will infuse your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers with incredible flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even-sized cubes, ensuring uniform cooking. Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your skewers’ taste and tenderness.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. To prevent the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil. This crucial step ensures your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers cook evenly and release easily when done.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
After marinating, thread the coated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers, about 4 to 5 pieces per skewer. Make sure to leave a small gap between pieces for even cooking and airflow. Set the prepared skewers aside as you get ready to grill, making sure to arrange them neatly on a plate to avoid any mess.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for about 10–15 minutes, turning them occasionally for an even char. You’ll know they’re ready when the chicken is browned and has nice grill marks, achieving an internal temperature of 165°F. This gives the Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers a delightful smoky flavor while keeping them juicy.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once the skewers are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes on a serving platter. This step ensures the juices redistribute throughout the chicken. Garnish your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers with freshly chopped cilantro for an added pop of flavor, and serve with lime wedges on the side for those who love a zesty squeeze.

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers Variations

Customize this recipe to suit your taste and enhance the excitement of your meal.

Veggie Delight: Add colorful bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions threaded between the chicken for a pop of flavor and color.
Shrimp Swap: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood twist; just reduce grill time to prevent overcooking.
Firm Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu instead of chicken. Marinate and grill until golden brown for a satisfying bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh jalapeños to the marinade for a fiery flavor that tingle the taste buds.
Smoky BBQ: Introduce a touch of barbecue sauce to the marinade for a deeper smoky sweetness, balancing out the zesty elements.
Greek-Inspired: Swap the cilantro for fresh parsley, and add a sprinkle of feta crumbles for a delightful Mediterranean twist.
Tropical Delight: Incorporate pineapple chunks on the skewers for a sweet burst that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
Citrus Boost: Experiment with orange juice in place of lime for a different citrusy vibe that adds a refreshing twist to your skewers.

These variations offer endless possibilities to make your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers uniquely yours. For even more delicious variations, check out our Greek Tzatziki Chicken or consider trying Chicken Enchiladas Savory for a different family favorite!

Expert Tips for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Uniform Chicken Pieces: Ensure all chicken cubes are the same size for even cooking; this prevents overcooking some pieces while others remain underdone.
Marinate Longer: For even more flavorful Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, marinate the chicken overnight if time allows. The longer it sits, the better the flavor!
Soak Skewers Properly: Always soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling to avoid burning, which can ruin the presentation and flavor of your skewers.
Use High Heat: Preheat your grill to medium-high for a nice char without drying out the chicken. High heat seals in moisture, ensuring tender, juicy meat.
Rest Before Serving: Allow cooked skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving; this lets juices redistribute throughout the chicken, enhancing flavor and tenderness.
Experiment with Veggies: Add colorful veggies such as bell peppers or zucchini to your skewers; they grill beautifully and pair perfectly with the marinated chicken!

How to Store and Freeze Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Fridge: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay moist and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap cooked skewers tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw frozen skewers in the fridge overnight, then reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers any time!

Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling for extra flavor.

What to Serve with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

A delightful barbecue isn’t complete without the perfect sides to enhance those smoky, flavorful bites.

Creamy Guacamole: Creamy and rich, this avocado dip adds a fresh, cool contrast to the zesty chicken skewers, enhancing every bite. Try serving it with crispy tortilla chips for a perfect appetizer.
Cilantro-Lime Rice: This fragrant rice, bursting with fresh cilantro and zesty lime, complements the skewers’ vibrant flavors beautifully, making it a must-have side dish. Elevate your meal by adding black beans for a hearty twist!
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn slathered in butter and lime captures the essence of summer grilling, making it a delightful sidekick for your skewers. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with tender chicken.
Spicy Mexican Street Salad: A refreshing mix of crunchy veggies, lime juice, and a hint of chili powder brings a fresh twist that cuts through the rich flavors of the skewers, balancing the meal beautifully.
Fresh Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and tangy pineapple salsa adds a tropical vibe, perfectly contrasting the smoky chicken while enhancing its flavor profile with every bite. Serve it chilled for the ultimate refreshment!
Margaritas or Sparkling Water: Toast to summer with a zesty margarita that mirrors the flavors of your meal. Alternatively, a sparkling water infused with lime and mint can cleanse the palate beautifully between bites.

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply. Just cut the boneless, skinless chicken breast into cubes and toss them in the marinade, then cover and refrigerate. Additionally, you can assemble the skewers beforehand and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just be sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to cook, simply grill the skewers as directed, and you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for my skewers?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are pink and firm with no visible dark spots or bruises. Fresh chicken should have a pleasant, non-offensive smell; if it smells sour or has a sticky texture, opt for another cut.

How should I store leftover Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?
Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain moisture, make sure the container is sealed well to prevent air exposure.

Can I freeze Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?
Yes! For freezing, wrap the cooked skewers tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. For the best results, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly on the grill?
If your chicken skewers are cooking unevenly, first check that the pieces are uniform in size. If they’re already skewered and some are cooking faster, move the skewers around on the grill. Place the skewers with the thicker pieces further from the heat source to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Are Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers safe for my kids?
Very! These skewers are generally kid-friendly, but if allergies are a concern—like soy allergies—consider using tamari sauce. Additionally, always ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

What can I do if I don’t have wooden skewers?
No worries! You can use metal skewers instead, which are reusable and can handle higher heat. If you prefer a grill basket or grilling mat, you can cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and grill them directly in those for easy cooking without worrying about skewers at all.