Description
These Spicy Honey Jalapeño Chicken Skewers feature tender chunks of chicken marinated in a sweet and spicy honey-jalapeño glaze, perfectly grilled to develop smoky char marks. Served alongside a refreshing cilantro lime dip, they make a vibrant, flavorful appetizer or main dish perfect for BBQs, parties, or casual meals.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Cilantro Lime Dip:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, honey, chopped jalapeños, minced garlic, lime juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create the marinade base.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade and toss well to ensure every piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor infusion.
- Make the Cilantro Lime Dip: While the chicken marinates, in a small bowl, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, and salt. Chill the dip until ready to serve, allowing flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Skewers and Grill: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 to 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers evenly.
- Cook the Chicken Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill, cooking for 10 to 12 minutes while turning occasionally. Grill until the chicken is cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F, and has appealing grill marks.
- Serve: Serve the chicken skewers hot, accompanied by the chilled cilantro lime dip on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick of heat.
- These skewers are perfect for parties and BBQ gatherings.
- Serve over rice or salad for a more complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southwestern, American
