Spicy Honey Jalapeño Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Lime Dip

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These Spicy Honey Jalapeño Chicken Skewers are a crowd-pleasing dish that packs a punch of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Paired with a refreshing cilantro lime dip, this recipe is perfect for grilling season or as an appetizer for your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Combines sweet and spicy flavors for a bold taste.
  • Perfect for summer grilling or indoor cooking.
  • Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
  • The cilantro lime dip adds a cooling and tangy complement.
  • Versatile as a main dish or appetizer.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Skewers:

  • Chicken breasts or thighs, cut into cubes
  • Jalapeños, thinly sliced
  • Honey
  • Soy sauce
  • Lime juice
  • Garlic, minced
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper

For the Cilantro Lime Dip:

  • Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime zest and juice
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt

Directions

this recipe
  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
  2. Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  3. Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with slices of jalapeño.
  4. Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
  5. Prepare the Dip: In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Serve: Serve the skewers hot with the cilantro lime dip on the side.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Marination Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Variations

  • Protein Swap: Use shrimp, pork, or tofu instead of chicken for a twist.
  • Extra Heat: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for more spice.
  • Vegetable Additions: Include bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers.
  • Dairy-Free Dip: Replace Greek yogurt with a non-dairy alternative like coconut yogurt.
  • Baking Option: Bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the cilantro lime dip separately.
  • Reheating: Reheat the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or on a stovetop grill until warmed through. The dip is best served cold.

FAQs

1. Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the dip a day in advance. Assemble the skewers just before grilling.

2. How spicy are these skewers?

The spice level depends on the amount of jalapeño and whether you include the seeds. Remove seeds for less heat.

3. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and work well in this recipe.

4. What if I don’t have a grill?

You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the skewers in the oven.

5. Is the cilantro lime dip necessary?

While optional, the dip balances the heat and adds a refreshing flavor.

6. Can I freeze the chicken skewers?

You can freeze the marinated, uncooked chicken on skewers for up to 2 months. Thaw before grilling.

7. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free marinade.

8. What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Serve with rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

9. Can I use store-bought dip instead?

Yes, but making the cilantro lime dip adds a personal touch and fresh flavor.

10. How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grill grates or the skewers lightly before cooking to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Spicy Honey Jalapeño Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Lime Dip are an irresistible combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a quick dinner, this recipe delivers both taste and simplicity. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of bold flavors in every bite!

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Spicy Honey Jalapeño Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Lime Dip

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These Spicy Honey Jalapeño Chicken Skewers are packed with flavor! Juicy grilled chicken is marinated in a spicy-sweet glaze of honey, jalapeños, and spices. Paired with a zesty cilantro lime dip, they’re perfect for your next barbecue or weeknight dinner.

  • Author: ksuur
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 57 minutes (including 30 minutes marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American, Fusion
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Skewers:

  • 1 ½ lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat, if desired)
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers

For the Cilantro Lime Dip:

  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
    In a large bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, olive oil, chopped jalapeños, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
  2. Prepare the Dip:
    In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, lime juice, lime zest, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  3. Assemble Skewers:
    If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
  4. Cook the Skewers:
    Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
  5. Serve:
    Serve skewers hot with the cilantro lime dip on the side. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
  • For a smoky twist, grill over charcoal or add a pinch of liquid smoke to the marinade.
  • This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu for a variation.

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