Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers: Amazing Flavor

Name: Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers: Amazing Flavor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 27 min
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts; 4 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced; 1/4 cup Lime Juice; 1 teaspoon Cumin; 1 teaspoon Paprika; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

by Jannet Lisa

23 de July de 2025

Facebook

Jump to Recipe

Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers have become my go-to for weeknight dinners and backyard get-togethers alike. I first tried making these flavorful skewers after a trip to Peru, and the memory of that smoky, citrusy aroma still makes my mouth water. The tender chicken, infused with lime and spices, is just incredible. These marinated chicken skewers are so simple to put together, making them the perfect choice when you’re craving something delicious without a lot of fuss. If you’re looking for an easy grilled chicken skewers recipe that’s bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers

Get ready to impress yourself and your guests with these fantastic skewers. They’re a winner for so many reasons:

Incredible flavor explosion with every bite.
Super quick prep time, so you spend less time in the kitchen.
A healthy, protein-packed main course option.
Amazingly budget-friendly, especially for feeding a crowd.
Definitely family-friendly and a hit with kids and adults alike.
These lime chicken skewers are incredibly juicy and tender.
You’ll find these easy chicken skewers are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating amazing marinated chicken skewers. The lime juice and garlic are key to that bright, zesty flavor profile I absolutely love. You’ll also need:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced – this adds a wonderful punch of flavor
1/4 cup lime juice – freshly squeezed is best for that authentic Peruvian taste
1 teaspoon cumin – for that warm, earthy depth
1 teaspoon paprika – adds a lovely color and subtle sweetness
2 tablespoons olive oil – helps tenderize the chicken and keeps it moist
1 teaspoon dried oregano – for a classic herbaceous note
Salt to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors
Pepper to taste – for a little kick
Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes) – to prevent burning on the grill

How to Make Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers

Let’s get these flavorful skewers on the grill! My favorite part is the aroma that fills the air as the chicken cooks. It’s a sign that a delicious meal is almost ready.

Step 1: First things first, preheat your grill to a nice medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). While the grill is warming up, make sure your wooden skewers have been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes. This little trick is super important to prevent them from burning to a crisp.
Step 2: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the fresh lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until you have a beautifully blended marinade. The smell of these spices is amazing!
Step 3: Now it’s time for the chicken! Cut your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform, bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Toss the chicken pieces into the marinade, making sure every single piece is coated with that delicious mixture. Cover the bowl and pop it into the refrigerator to marinate for at least one hour. For even deeper flavor, I love to let it marinate overnight.
Step 4: Once the chicken has had a good soak in the marinade, it’s time to thread it onto those pre-soaked skewers. Gently thread the marinated chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece. This allows the heat to circulate evenly, ensuring your grilled chicken cooks perfectly.
Step 5: Place the loaded skewers onto your preheated grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes total. You’ll want to turn them occasionally to get that gorgeous, golden-brown char on all sides. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through and wonderfully tender. This is where the magic of barbecue chicken really happens!
Step 6: Once the chicken is cooked to perfection – it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) – carefully remove the skewers from the grill. You can give them an extra squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving if you like that extra tangy kick. Enjoy your delicious Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers!

Pro Tips for the Best Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make these skewers absolutely perfect every time. Follow these tips for the most tender and flavorful results:

Don’t skip soaking the wooden skewers; it’s crucial to prevent burning.
Ensure your chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor infusion.
Avoid overcrowding the grill; give the skewers space for proper heat circulation.

What’s the secret to perfect Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers?

The real secret lies in the marinade! The combination of fresh lime juice, garlic, and spices tenderizes the chicken beautifully, creating those amazing lime chicken skewers. Letting it marinate long enough is key. For more information on marinades, check out this guide to marinades.

Can I make Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Threading them onto skewers can also be done a few hours ahead and kept covered in the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers?

A common pitfall is dry chicken. Make sure not to overcook them; use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, remember to soak your skewers to prevent burning. You can find more tips on grilling temperatures at grilling temperature guide.

Best Ways to Serve Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers

These flavorful Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers are so versatile! They’re fantastic on their own, but I love pairing them with a refreshing side dish. A classic combination is serving them with a simple side salad or some fluffy rice. For a lighter option, try them alongside some easy marinated cucumbers – a Marinated Cucumber Appetizer really cuts through the richness of the chicken and adds a delightful crunch. These marinated chicken skewers also pair wonderfully with a zesty chimichurri sauce or a cool yogurt-based dip. They truly are the star of any summer meal!

Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers: Amazing Flavor - Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers

When you’re enjoying these delicious Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers, it’s helpful to know what you’re eating. These estimates help you understand the nutritional breakdown per serving, making it easier to fit them into your meal plan. For more information on healthy eating, consider resources like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Protein: 36 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: 400 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers

Once these delicious Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers have cooled down, storing them properly is key to enjoying them later. I usually let them cool for about 15-20 minutes before packing them away. For the best results, store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’ve got more than you can manage, they freeze beautifully too! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, you can gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes, or pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through. They’re fantastic served alongside some easy refrigerator pickles for a quick and satisfying meal!

Frequently Asked Questions About Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers

What kind of chicken works best for Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers?

I find that boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for these Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers because they absorb the marinade so well and cook quickly. Thighs also work, but they might take a little longer to cook through. You can find more chicken recipes at our chicken recipes section.

Can I use different vegetables on the skewers with the chicken?

Absolutely! While these are primarily chicken skewers, adding colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini makes them even more appealing. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly with the chicken. These easy chicken skewers are very adaptable!

How do I ensure my chicken skewers don’t stick to the grill?

Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before you start. Soaking the wooden skewers is also vital, as I mentioned in the tips. If you’re using metal skewers, oiling them directly helps prevent sticking. For more grilling tips, see grilling tips.

What’s a good side dish to serve with these skewers?

They are fantastic with a fresh salad, like a simple green salad or even some marinated cucumber salad. Rice or quinoa also make great accompaniments. The key is a side that complements the zesty, savory flavors of the chicken.

Variations of Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers You Can Try

While I adore the classic Peruvian flavors, you can totally switch things up to make these marinated chicken skewers your own! Here are a few ideas I’ve experimented with:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely minced jalapeño to the marinade for some heat.
Vegetable Medley: Thread chunks of bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes onto the skewers alongside the chicken for a colorful and complete meal.
Different Marinades: Try a soy-ginger marinade or a lemon-herb blend if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
Baking Option: No grill? No problem! Bake these at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through.