Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers-Flavorful Grill Recipe

Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these incredible Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers! Infused with zesty lime, smoky spices, and a hint of sweetness, these skewers are the perfect way to bring vibrant Mexican flavors to your grill. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at your next barbecue.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup tomato ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 12 wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. **Prepare the Chicken & Marinade:** In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure all chicken pieces are coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2-4 hours, for best flavor.
2. **Make the Mexican BBQ Glaze (if homemade):** In a small saucepan, combine all ingredients for the BBQ glaze: ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. **Prepare Skewers & Grill:** If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F / 200-230°C). Lightly oil the grill grates.
4. **Thread the Chicken:** Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the prepared skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
5. **Grill the Skewers:** Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, rotating frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
6. **Glaze and Finish:** During the last 5-7 minutes of grilling, generously brush the skewers with the Mexican BBQ glaze, turning them often to get an even coating and allow the sauce to caramelize slightly.
7. **Serve:** Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with extra lime wedges.