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Grilled Habanero Marinated Chicken Skewers

Spice Up Summer with Grilled Habanero Marinated Chicken Skewers

Grilled habanero marinated chicken skewers deliver explosive flavor and are perfect for summer cookouts.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 skewers
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Chicken thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.
  • 3 pieces orange habaneros Opt for milder peppers if preferred.
  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil Olive or vegetable oil can be used.
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice About 1 lemon yields around this amount.
  • 3 pieces scallions Trim off the roots before use.
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro Skip if cilantro isn’t your favorite.
  • 3 cloves garlic cloves Fresh garlic is best.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Brings a delightful smoky flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Freshly ground is always recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Equipment

  • grill
  • mixing bowl
  • Skewers
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Marinade: In a glass bowl, combine chopped orange habaneros, 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, trimmed scallions, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, avocado oil, smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, cumin, and onion powder. Blend until smooth.
  2. Marinate Chicken: Cut boneless, skinless chicken into equal-sized chunks, pour the marinade over, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 4 hours.
  3. Soak Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  4. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 375-400°F (190-200°C).
  5. Thread Chicken on Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers, leaving space between pieces.
  6. Grill Chicken: Grill the skewers for 5-6 minutes on one side, turning halfway through until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  7. Rest and Serve: Let the skewers rest for about 5 minutes before serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1skewerCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Marinade for at least 4 hours for better flavor. If you'd like less heat, substitute habaneros with milder peppers like jalapeños.

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