Latin Chicken Thigh Kebabs

Craving juicy, flavorful chicken kebabs? Look no further! This recipe for Latin Chicken Thigh Kebabs with a smoky paprika marinade is easy to follow and perfect for grilling. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a citrusy, spice-infused mixture for incredible flavor. Thread them onto skewers with colorful bell peppers, red onion, and optional pineapple chunks for a delicious and satisfying meal. Great for summer cookouts or a fun weeknight dinner!

Versatile Flavor Explosion: One super awesome fact about this recipe is its versatility. While it's inspired by Latin flavors with ingredients like lime juice, cumin, and smoked paprika, you can easily customize it to suit your taste buds. Add more spice for an extra kick, toss in different veggies for a colorful twist, or even swap out the chicken for your favorite protein like shrimp or tofu. The possibilities are endless, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion!

Healthy and Delicious: Another super awesome fact is that this recipe strikes the perfect balance between health and flavor. By using boneless, skinless chicken thighs, you're cutting down on excess fat while still enjoying tender and juicy meat. Plus, loading up the skewers with colorful veggies adds a nutritious punch to your meal. It's a guilt-free indulgence that doesn't skimp on taste, making it a win-win for your taste buds and your waistline!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs? Yes, you can! However, chicken thighs tend to be more tender and juicy, but chicken breast works too if that's your preference.
Can I use pre-made marinade instead of making it from scratch? While homemade marinade gives the best flavor, you can use store-bought marinade if you're short on time. Just make sure it complements the Latin-inspired flavors.
Can I grill these kebabs indoors? Absolutely! If you don't have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan or even a regular skillet on the stovetop.
How long should I marinate the chicken for? Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator, but overnight marinating yields the best flavor.
Do I have to soak the wooden skewers? It's highly recommended to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Can I customize the veggies on the kebabs? Of course! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite veggies like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Can I make these kebabs ahead of time? You can prepare the kebabs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. Just make sure to remove them from the fridge 30 minutes before grilling to bring them to room temperature.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for later use. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
What side dishes pair well with these kebabs? These kebabs go well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with warm tortillas for a fun twist!
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones? Absolutely! Metal skewers are reusable and don't require soaking. Just be cautious as they can get hot on the grill.
Can I make this recipe spicy? Absolutely! Feel free to add more chili powder or even some chopped jalapeños to kick up the heat.
What can I substitute for lime juice if I don't have any? You can use lemon juice as a substitute for lime juice in this recipe.
How do I prevent the vegetables from burning on the grill? Make sure to brush the vegetables with a bit of oil before grilling and keep an eye on them, turning them frequently to prevent burning.
Can I make these kebabs in the oven? Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the kebabs for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

And there you have it, folks! Fifteen burning questions about our sizzling Latin-style Chicken Thigh Kebabs, answered with a side of sass and a sprinkle of seasoning.

Make it

Latin Chicken Thigh Kebabs

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

1/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup fresh lime juice
1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
1.5 teaspoons dried oregano
3/4 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Kebabs:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 large red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 large green bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 large red onion, cut into chunks
Pineapple chunks (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions: Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken thigh cubes in a large mixing bowl and pour the marinade over them. Ensure every piece of chicken is covered in the marinade. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight.

Prepare the Skewers: If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Assemble the Kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken thigh cubes onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, and pineapple if desired, to create colorful kebabs.

Grill the Kebabs: Place the assembled kebabs on the preheated grill. Grill for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken thighs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.

Serve: Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.

Enjoy these flavorful Latin-style chicken thigh kebabs with your favorite side dishes for a delicious and satisfying meal! Happy grilling!