Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers

Bursting with bold, zesty flavors, these Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers are a vibrant dish perfect for summer grilling or any meal that calls for a touch of spice and excitement. Marinated in a blend of Peruvian-inspired spices, fresh herbs, and tangy lime juice, these skewers deliver a juicy and flavorful bite every time.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Skewers (soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
• Grill or grill pan
• Whisk

Ingredients Overview

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too.
• Marinade: A bold combination of garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and Peruvian spices.
• Herbs: Fresh cilantro adds brightness and authentic flavor.
• Ají Amarillo Paste: This Peruvian yellow chili paste provides a mild, fruity heat (available in specialty stores or online).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

• In a bowl, whisk together:
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon ají amarillo paste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

2. Marinate the Chicken

• Cut 1.5 pounds of chicken thighs or breasts into 1-inch pieces.
• Toss the chicken in the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.

3. Assemble the Skewers

• Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Alternate with chunks of bell pepper, red onion, or zucchini for added color and flavor if desired.

4. Grill the Skewers

• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
• Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a bright, citrusy finish.

Recipe Tips

• For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• If you can’t find ají amarillo paste, substitute with a mix of yellow bell pepper puree and a pinch of cayenne.
• Add more veggies to the skewers for a complete meal on a stick.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• A side of cilantro lime rice or Peruvian-style quinoa.
• Fresh tomato and avocado salad.
• Traditional ají verde (spicy green sauce) for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without a grill?
Yes, use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes.

What is ají amarillo paste, and can I substitute it?
Ají amarillo paste is a Peruvian yellow chili paste with a mild, fruity flavor. If unavailable, mix yellow bell pepper puree with a pinch of cayenne or turmeric for color and heat.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Absolutely! Freeze the chicken in the marinade in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon ají amarillo paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Whisk together the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
2. Add chicken to the marinade, toss to coat, and refrigerate for 1–8 hours.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, alternating with vegetables if desired.
4. Grill skewers over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

These Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers are a deliciously vibrant dish guaranteed to impress your family and friends!

Grilled Chicken Skewers

Bursting with bold, zesty flavors, these Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers are a vibrant dish perfect for summer grilling or any meal that calls for a touch of spice and excitement. Marinated in a blend of Peruvian-inspired spices, fresh herbs, and tangy lime juice, these skewers deliver a juicy and flavorful bite every time.

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Equipment

• tchen Equipment Needed
• Mixing bowls 
• Skewers (soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
• Grill or grill pan
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds chicken thighs or breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon ají amarillo paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

 

• Whisk together the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
• Add chicken to the marinade, toss to coat, and refrigerate for 1–8 hours.
• Thread chicken onto skewers, alternating with vegetables if desired.
• Grill skewers over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
• These Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers are a deliciously vibrant dish guaranteed to impress your family and friends!