Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers- Flavorful Grill

Elevate your backyard barbecue with a burst of vibrant Mexican flavors! These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are incredibly easy to make, packing a punch of smoky, spicy, and tangy notes into every bite. Get ready to impress your guests with this irresistible grilled sensation!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for glaze)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. 1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken thighs or breasts into 1-inch cubes. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. 2. Make the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), honey or brown sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper.
3. 3. Marinate the chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, for best flavor. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water during this time.
4. 4. Prepare the vegetables: While the chicken marinates, cut the red and yellow bell peppers and red onion into 1-inch pieces, similar in size to the chicken cubes.
5. 5. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F / 200-230°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
6. 6. Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated chicken and prepared vegetables alternately onto the skewers. Don’t pack them too tightly, allowing for even cooking.
7. 7. Grill the skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through, no longer pink in the center, and has nice char marks. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
8. 8. Rest and serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately with extra lime wedges.