Description
These Spicy Honey Jalapeño Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Lime Dip are a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. The tender chicken skewers are marinated in a flavorful mixture and grilled to perfection, then served with a creamy cilantro lime dip. This Southwest-inspired dish is ideal for summer cookouts or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the chicken skewers:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 1 jalapeño (finely chopped, seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- wooden or metal skewers
For the cilantro lime dip:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 small garlic clove (minced)
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, chopped jalapeño, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- While the chicken marinates, stir together all ingredients for the cilantro lime dip in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot with a side of cilantro lime dip for dipping or drizzling.
Notes
- These skewers are great for cookouts or quick weeknight meals.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or a crisp salad.
- For extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds or add a pinch of cayenne to the marinade.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer with dip
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
