Chicken Kabobs Mexicana
Introduction
Looking for a fun and flavorful dish to spice up your grilling game? These Chicken Kabobs Mexicana are bursting with bold, zesty flavors and make the perfect addition to any BBQ or weeknight dinner. Marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy lime-cilantro marinade come together for an unforgettable meal!
Why Make This Recipe
These chicken kabobs are a vibrant, healthy, and easy-to-make dish. The combination of cumin, cilantro, and lime adds a fresh and zesty punch to the chicken, while the colorful veggies bring both flavor and texture. Plus, they’re quick to prepare and perfect for grilling season!
How to Make Chicken Kabobs Mexicana
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 small zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch slices
- 1 onion, cut into wedges and separated
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 cherry tomatoes
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes and mix well to coat. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to high. While it's heating, prepare the kabobs.
- Prepare the Kabobs: Thread the marinated chicken, zucchini slices, onion wedges, red bell pepper pieces, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers.
- Grill the Kabobs: Brush the grill with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and all the ingredients are beautifully charred.
How to Serve Chicken Kabobs Mexicana
These kabobs are great on their own or served with rice, a side salad, or your favorite dipping sauces like salsa or guacamole. They’re also a great addition to tacos or wraps for a unique twist!
How to Store Chicken Kabobs Mexicana
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can easily reheat them on the grill or in the oven to bring back that fresh, smoky flavor.
Tips to Make Chicken Kabobs Mexicana
- For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lime juice right before serving.
- If you prefer a little heat, sprinkle some chili flakes or drizzle a spicy sauce over the kabobs before grilling.
- Use wooden skewers? Be sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before using to prevent burning on the grill.
Variation
Swap out the chicken for beef or shrimp for a different take on these kabobs. You can also add other veggies like mushrooms, corn on the cob, or even pineapple for a sweet contrast!
FAQs
1. Can I make the marinade in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade the day before and refrigerate it. Marinating the chicken overnight will deepen the flavors.
2. Can I cook these kabobs in the oven?
Yes! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can bake the kabobs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
3. Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for this recipe, but if you use frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
Enjoy your vibrant and tasty Chicken Kabobs Mexicana! 🌮🔥