Description
Sizzling spicy honey jalapeño chicken skewers dance with zesty flavor, promising a culinary adventure. Cilantro lime dip complements the grilled masterpiece, delivering cool refreshment that balances each fiery, sweet-heat bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Spices and Seasonings:
- 2 fresh jalapenos, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquid and Sweet Components:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Cilantro Lime Dip:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Craft a zesty marinade by combining honey, soy sauce, fresh lime juice, finely chopped jalapeños, smoky paprika, and garlic powder in a mixing vessel, ensuring thorough blending of flavors.
- Submerge chicken pieces completely in the marinade, gently massaging to ensure even coating, then refrigerate for at least half an hour to allow deep flavor penetration.
- Carefully thread the marinated chicken onto pre-soaked wooden skewers, alternating pieces to create an attractive presentation and ensure even cooking.
- Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high temperature, creating an ideal cooking environment for achieving a perfect caramelized exterior and juicy interior.
- Position skewers on the cooking surface, rotating periodically to develop a rich golden-brown char and prevent burning, cooking until chicken reaches optimal internal temperature.
- While chicken cooks, whip together creamy sour cream, tangy mayonnaise, freshly squeezed lime juice, finely chopped cilantro, and a delicate balance of salt and pepper to create a vibrant, cooling dip.
- Remove skewers from heat, allowing a brief resting period to lock in succulent juices, then plate alongside the herbaceous cilantro lime dip for a stunning presentation.
Notes
- Adjust jalapeño quantity based on heat tolerance, removing seeds for milder version or adding extra for spice lovers.
- Marinate chicken overnight in refrigerator to enhance flavor penetration and tenderize meat more effectively.
- Use wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling or broiling.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to create a healthier, protein-rich dip with similar creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg