When I first made these Peruvian grilled chicken skewers, I couldn’t believe how easy they were to prepare and how incredible they tasted. The mix of bold, smoky, and tangy flavors created a dish that felt like a culinary trip to South America.

It’s now my go-to recipe for summer cookouts or casual family dinners. The marinade alone is enough to win rave reviews, and I love how easily it transforms simple chicken into something spectacular. Trust me when I say, your grill is about to get a major upgrade.

Credit IG (thecafesucrefarine)

Ingredients

The ingredients for this recipe are simple but work together to deliver rich and vibrant flavors. Here’s everything you’ll need:

3 medium cloves of garlic, finely minced (adds a sharp, aromatic base to the marinade).
1 teaspoon ground cumin (lends earthy warmth).
1 teaspoon chili powder (provides a subtle kick).
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat).
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (essential for smoky depth).
2 tablespoons brown sugar (balances out the spices with sweetness).
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (to help the marinade cling to the chicken).
2 tablespoons soy sauce (enhances umami richness).
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (brings brightness and tang).
2 tablespoons finely minced fresh ginger (adds fresh, zesty heat).
3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (preferred for their tenderness and juiciness).

Note: This recipe serves about 6 people and can easily be scaled up or down based on your needs.

Variations

If you’d like to modify this recipe to suit dietary preferences or add a twist, here are some ideas:

For a dairy-free option: The recipe is naturally dairy-free!
For less sugar: Swap brown sugar for a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
Spice it up: Add more crushed red pepper flakes, or toss a splash of hot sauce into the marinade.
Extra flavor boost: Add a teaspoon of turmeric for a deeper golden color and an earthy undertone.

You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes like the Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Skillet for more flavorful inspiration.

Cooking Time

This recipe is quick to make and perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

To bring this dish together, you’ll need just a few essentials:

Mixing bowl: For blending the marinade ingredients.
Zip-top bag or large bowl: To marinate the chicken effectively.
Metal skewers (recommended) or wooden skewers (soak in water beforehand to prevent burning): For threading the chicken.
Grill (gas or charcoal): To cook the skewers to perfection.
Tongs or grill-safe spatula: For turning the skewers evenly.

How to Make Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers?

These skewers are incredibly easy to prepare in a few simple steps! The marinade does most of the work, infusing the chicken with flavor.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cutting them into pieces about 1 inch wide. This size ensures they’ll cook quickly and evenly on the grill.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

Combine the garlic, cumin, chili powder, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, brown sugar, olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, and ginger in a mixing bowl. Stir until everything is well blended. The mixture should have a pleasantly sharp and tangy aroma.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Pour half the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).

Step 4: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grill grates thoroughly and oil them lightly to prevent sticking. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes.

Step 5: Thread the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and thread it onto the metal skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 6: Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even charring. Use the reserved marinade to baste the chicken during grilling to enhance the flavor and keep the meat juicy.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and tent them with foil for 5 minutes to allow the juices to settle. Serve hot and enjoy!

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Through trial and error, I’ve discovered a few tricks to make these skewers irresistible:

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts; they stay much juicier on the grill.
Marinate for the full 4 hours if you have time; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
Don’t overcook the chicken. Keep an instant-read thermometer handy, and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
For an extra smoky flavor, throw a handful of soaked wood chips onto the charcoal or use a smoker box on your gas grill.

For more creative twists, you might enjoy exploring this Honey Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken Recipe, which offers a refreshing take on grilled chicken.

How to Serve Peruvian Grilled Chicken Skewers?

These skewers look as good as they taste if plated thoughtfully. Arrange them on a platter, sprinkled with fresh cilantro and served with wedges of lime for an extra burst of freshness. They pair beautifully with fluffy rice, quinoa, or a crisp cucumber-tomato salad. A drizzle of tangy Peruvian green sauce on the side is the ultimate finishing touch.

Nutritional Information

Calories	366
Protein	51g
Carbohydrates	5g
Fat	14g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is meal-prep friendly!

Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Marinated (uncooked) chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.
Reheating: Reheat the skewers in a 300°F oven or on the grill until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here are a few reasons why this dish is a winner in my kitchen:

Quick and easy: Perfect whether you’re grilling for a crowd or preparing a weeknight dinner.
Packed with flavor: Bold, smoky, and tangy flavors all in one bite.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
Healthy: Loaded with lean protein and minimal carbs.
Versatile: Equally impressive for casual meals or special occasions.

For more serving ideas, check out our collection of Chicken Recipes to complement your meal.

Ash Tyrrell