Name: Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers: 5 Steps to Tasty Success
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into cubes; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons vinegar; 1 tablespoon garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 tablespoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Wooden skewers, soaked in water

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Oh, let me tell you about the magic of *Peruvian grilled chicken skewers*! These beauties are a staple at summer barbecues, capturing everyone’s heart with their incredible flavor. The secret? A lively mix of spices like cumin and paprika that dance on your taste buds. I remember the first time I tried them at a friend’s backyard cookout—everyone gathered around the grill, the aroma wafting through the air, and just as I took a bite, I knew I’d found a new favorite dish. Trust me, once you savor these skewers, you’ll be hooked!

peruvian grilled chicken skewers - detail 1

Ingredients List

2 pounds chicken breast, cut into cubes
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons vinegar
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Wooden skewers, soaked in water

How to Prepare Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

First things first, let’s whip up that marinade that makes these skewers sing! In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of cumin, and 1 tablespoon of paprika. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and just a pinch of 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a little kick. Mix everything together until it’s well blended. Trust me, your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Next up, it’s time to marinate the chicken! Take your 2 pounds of chicken breast, cut into cubes, and toss them in the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. This is the crucial part—let those flavors soak in! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. If you can manage to wait longer, like overnight, even better! The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your skewers will be.

Step 3: Grill the Skewers

Now, let’s get grilling! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—this is key to achieving that perfect char. While the grill is heating up, thread your marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers. Make sure not to pack them too tightly; leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Once the grill is ready, place the skewers on it and grill for about 10-15 minutes. Be sure to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly and get that gorgeous golden brown color. You’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and have an irresistible aroma wafting in the air! Serve them hot, and enjoy the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy preparation—perfect for weeknight dinners or spontaneous gatherings!
Loaded with vibrant flavors from spices like cumin and paprika that will tantalize your taste buds.
Healthy ingredients make it a guilt-free treat, high in protein and gluten-free.
Grilling adds a delightful smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Great for meal prep—these skewers are perfect for leftovers or packed lunches!

Tips for Success

To make your *Peruvian grilled chicken skewers* absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few insider tips for you! First, don’t be shy about adjusting the spices to match your taste—if you like it spicier, add a bit more cayenne or even some chili powder! Also, ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). And remember to soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning—trust me, nobody wants charred skewers! Lastly, let them rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep them juicy. Enjoy your grilling adventure!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a general guideline. For each skewer, you can expect approximately 250 calories, 15g of fat, 25g of protein, and 2g of carbohydrates. Always check your ingredients for the most accurate info!

FAQ Section

Can I use other meats? Absolutely! While *Peruvian grilled chicken skewers* are delicious, you can easily swap the chicken for beef, pork, or even shrimp. Just adjust the marinating time based on the protein you choose.

How long can I store leftovers? Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat them gently to keep them juicy!

What sauces pair well? These skewers are fantastic with a variety of sauces! Try them with a zesty chimichurri, a spicy aji verde, or even a simple garlic sauce for a delightful kick.

Can I grill them indoors? Yes, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop! Just ensure you have good ventilation.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time? Definitely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to grill!

Serving Suggestions

These *Peruvian grilled chicken skewers* shine when served with a side of fluffy rice or a vibrant salad. You can also pair them with grilled vegetables for an extra touch of color and flavor! A dollop of creamy avocado sauce on the side adds a delicious twist, too!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your *Peruvian grilled chicken skewers* fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick fix. Just be careful not to overheat, so they stay juicy!

Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers: 5 Steps to Tasty Success

Author: Julia marin
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Delicious Peruvian grilled chicken skewers marinated in spices.

Instructions

In a bowl, mix olive oil, vinegar, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
Add chicken cubes to the marinade and mix well.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
Grill skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
Serve hot with your choice of sauce.