Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers
These Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers are easy to prepare, full of flavorful spices, and perfect for family gatherings, bringing everyone together around the grill.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated (Fresh garlic is best for a strong flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (This adds richness and helps the spices adhere.)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (Fresh lime juice brightens the dish—don’t use bottled juice!)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (This enhances the overall umami flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon honey (Gives a slight sweetness; can substitute with brown sugar or sugar.)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin (Adds a warm, earthy flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon oregano (Complements the chicken perfectly.)
- 2 teaspoons paprika (Offers mild heat and a beautiful color.)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground annatto (Optional - for added color and a subtle nutty flavor.)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne (Optional - adjust according to your family's taste!)
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Cut into bite-sized pieces; thighs are juicier, but breasts work just as well.)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, cumin, oregano, paprika, annatto, and cayenne. Stir well to make sure everything is fully blended.
- Place the chicken pieces in a resealable plastic bag or glass dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and ensure every piece is coated. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
Grilling
- After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. Shake off excess marinade before skewering the pieces.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers on the grill for about 2-4 minutes per side until a nice char is present and ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve with Aji Verde sauce for a traditional Peruvian touch.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat using stovetop or grill to maintain juiciness. If using a microwave, do so in short intervals to avoid overcooking.