Description
These Spicy Honey Jalapeño Chicken Skewers are the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and smoky. Paired with a refreshing cilantro lime dip, they’re ideal for grilling season, parties, or a fun weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 1/2 lbs (700 g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if grilling)
For the Cilantro Lime Dip:
- 1/2 cup (120 g) Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, jalapeños, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
2. Prepare the Cilantro Lime Dip:
- In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, honey, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers, ensuring the pieces are spaced slightly apart for even cooking.
4. Cook the Skewers:
- Grill: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for a charred effect.
5. Serve:
- Serve the skewers hot with the cilantro lime dip on the side. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- For extra caramelization, brush the skewers with additional honey during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting the jalapeños and cayenne pepper.
- These skewers pair well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad.