Chicken Kabobs Mexicana

Mexican Chicken Kabobs with Zucchini and Bell Pepper

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Kabobs Mexicana is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines marinated chicken with a variety of vegetables on skewers. This dish is perfect for grilling and is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or family dinner.

History

Chicken kabobs have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. The idea of skewering meat and vegetables and cooking them over an open flame is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a meal. The addition of Mexican flavors such as cumin, cilantro, and lime juice gives this recipe a unique twist.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
2 tbsp 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 0.5 inch slices
1 onion, cut into wedges and separated
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1 inch pieces
10 cherry tomatoes

How to prepare

In a shallow dish, combine olive oil, cumin, chopped cilantro, and lime juice.
Season with salt and pepper.
Add chicken and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Preheat the grill for high heat.
Thread chicken, zucchini, onion, red bell pepper, and tomatoes onto skewers.
Brush the grill with oil and arrange the skewers on the hot grate.
Cook for approximately 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, turning to cook evenly.

Variations

Use shrimp or beef instead of chicken for a different protein option.
Add pineapple or mango to the skewers for a sweet and tangy twist.
Experiment with different seasonings such as chili powder, garlic, or paprika for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least one hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the ingredients to prevent them from burning on the grill.

- Cook the kabobs over high heat to get a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken Kabobs Mexicana with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the best cooking technique for Chicken Kabobs Mexicana to get that smoky flavor and charred exterior. However, you can also bake them in the oven or cook them on a stovetop grill pan if needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms, squash, or eggplant. You can also use different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken and prepare the skewers ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator until ready to grill. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chicken Kabobs Mexicana on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime for garnish. You can also serve them with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Kabobs Mexicana with a cold beer, a glass of white wine, or a refreshing margarita for a perfect summer meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the kabobs in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Kabobs Mexicana contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Kabobs Mexicana contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Kabobs Mexicana contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Kabobs Mexicana contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Kabobs Mexicana is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium from the vegetables used in the recipe.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten. However, if you have specific allergies, be sure to check the ingredients for any potential allergens.

Summary

Chicken Kabobs Mexicana is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Kabobs Mexicana is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for grilling season. With a flavorful marinade and a variety of vegetables, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Enjoy the bold flavors of Mexico with this tasty and nutritious meal!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I found myself wandering through a bustling farmer's market in Mexico. The vibrant colors of the produce, the savory smells from the street food stalls, and the lively chatter of the vendors all combined to create an atmosphere that was alive with energy and excitement.

As I meandered through the market, taking in the sights and sounds around me, my attention was suddenly drawn to a small stand nestled in a corner. The stand was adorned with hand-painted signs that read "Pollo Kabobs Mexicana" in bold, colorful letters. Intrigued, I approached the stand and struck up a conversation with the elderly woman who was manning it.

She introduced herself as Señora Maria, a local cook who specialized in traditional Mexican dishes. She explained that the Chicken Kabobs Mexicana were a family recipe that had been passed down through generations. The secret, she said, was in the marinade - a mouthwatering blend of spices and herbs that she had perfected over the years.

I watched as Señora Maria deftly skewered pieces of tender chicken, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes onto wooden sticks, all while regaling me with stories of her culinary adventures. She spoke passionately about her love for cooking and how each dish she prepared held a special place in her heart.

Intrigued by her enthusiasm and captivated by the delicious smells wafting from the grill, I asked if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed, and over the course of the afternoon, she walked me through the steps of creating the Chicken Kabobs Mexicana.

I jotted down notes as she spoke, carefully recording each ingredient and measurement. Señora Maria's eyes sparkled with pride as she watched me absorb her knowledge, and I could sense the bond that was forming between us through our shared love of food.

After several hours of cooking and chatting, the Chicken Kabobs Mexicana were finally ready. The aroma that filled the air was intoxicating, and my mouth watered in anticipation. I took a bite of the tender, flavorful chicken, savoring the explosion of spices and herbs on my taste buds. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before - a perfect blend of savory and spicy flavors that danced across my palate.

As I savored each mouthful, Señora Maria beamed with pride, her eyes crinkling at the corners with joy. She had passed on her culinary legacy to me, and I felt honored to carry on the tradition of her Chicken Kabobs Mexicana.

Since that fateful day in the bustling market, I have made the recipe countless times, each time with a little twist or variation of my own. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at the delicious flavors and begged for the secret behind the marinade.

But for me, the true beauty of the Chicken Kabobs Mexicana lies not just in the taste, but in the memories that it invokes. Every time I prepare this dish, I am transported back to that warm summer day in Mexico, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the market, and the camaraderie of Señora Maria.

And so, as I stand in my kitchen today, skewering pieces of chicken and vegetables onto wooden sticks, I can't help but smile. The recipe for Chicken Kabobs Mexicana holds a special place in my heart, not just for its delicious flavors, but for the connection it represents - a connection to a kind stranger, a shared love of food, and the joy of discovery.