Pin It Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers with Avocado Salsa is a dish I reach for when I want bold flavor that still feels light and fresh It brings grilled dinner to your table in a way that skips the heaviness and brings in zingy color and freshness from a chunky salsa This is a weeknight staple when the grill is calling or an easy crowd pleaser for summer parties
I first made these skewers at a July cookout when I needed something that was impressive but not fussy Everyone hovered by the grill grabbing skewers hot as they came off The avocado salsa ended up being the star and now I am rarely allowed to skip it
Ingredients
- Chicken breast or thighs: Boneless chicken pieces grill more evenly and stay juicy Go for organic or farm fresh for best flavor
- Olive oil: This helps keep the chicken moist while developing a golden char Use genuine extra virgin for depth
- Chili powder and smoked paprika: These give the chicken a smoky warmth Seek out high quality spice jars with bright color
- Ground cumin and ground coriander: Add earthiness to round out the flavor
- Fresh garlic: Brings bite and aroma Crush the cloves for maximum release
- Lime juice and zest: The acid tenderizes and lifts every bite Opt for heavy limes with glossy skin
- Sea salt and cracked black pepper: Essential for flavor balance Use flaky salt if you have it
- For salsa
- Ripe avocado: Creamy and cooling Choose slightly firm but yielding avocados with no sunken spots
- Ripe tomato: Adds texture and juicy balance Cherry tomatoes are naturally sweeter
- Red onion: Sliced thin for flavor punch Soak slices in cold water if you prefer mildness
- Cilantro: Adds grassy herby life to cut through the richness Pick vibrant fragrant bunches
- More lime juice: Brings it all together
- Jalapeño: Adds mild heat Remove the seeds for less spice
Instructions
- Make the marinade:
- In a large bowl whisk together olive oil chili powder smoked paprika cumin coriander finely crushed garlic lime juice lime zest salt and pepper until thick and fragrant
- Prepare the chicken:
- Cut chicken into large even cubes about one and a half inches to ensure even grilling Add to marinade and toss until each piece is coated well Cover and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes an hour is ideal
- Preheat the grill:
- Heat an outdoor grill or grill pan over medium high flame Brush with a bit of oil to prevent sticking
- Assemble the skewers:
- Thread chicken cubes onto skewers leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking If using wooden skewers soak them in water for at least thirty minutes first
- Grill the chicken skewers:
- Place on the hot grill turning every two to three minutes Grill for eight to ten minutes total until the chicken has a firm springy feel and visible grill marks Brush lightly with extra marinade while grilling for deeper flavor
- Make the avocado salsa:
- While the chicken is grilling cube the avocado and tomato and place in a medium bowl Add thinly sliced red onion chopped cilantro lime juice and diced jalapeño Toss gently with a spoon Season to taste with extra salt and a squeeze of lime
- Serve and enjoy:
- As soon as the chicken comes off the grill let it rest for a couple minutes Top with big spoonfuls of avocado salsa Serve with extra lime wedges
Pin It The smoky grilled chicken is fantastic on its own but the real magic comes from that creamy lime studded avocado salsa I always keep a few extra avocados handy because every time I make this my youngest always tries to eat all the salsa before the meal even starts
Storage Tips
Leftover grilled chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Store the avocado salsa separately in an airtight container with plastic pressed directly against it to slow browning Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or enjoy cold as a salad topper
Ingredient Substitutions
Try chicken thighs for extra juiciness or swap in tofu or halloumi for a vegetarian twist If you do not have smoked paprika regular sweet paprika delivers some warmth Use lemon juice if you have no limes
Serving Suggestions
Pile skewers over herby rice or fluffy quinoa These are perfect stuffed into warm pita bread with greens or tucked beside grilled corn Add extra salsa on the side for dipping or serve everything family style for a casual party
Cultural and Historical Context
Grilled skewers are loved in so many cuisines from Middle Eastern kebabs to Latin American pinchos This particular combo borrows smokiness from Mediterranean spice blends while the avocado salsa brings a touch of Mexican freshness that balances the dish
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap tomatoes for diced mango in summer for fruity sweetness Add grilled corn to the salsa for extra crunch and flavor Sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the finished plate in winter for color
Pin It This dish makes any grill night a breeze with bold flavor and a fresh twist Enjoy sharing and watch it become everyone's favorite bite
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What spices work best for chicken skewers?
Use paprika, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper for a balanced warm, savory flavor.
- → How long should chicken marinate before grilling?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- → How do I prevent chicken from drying out on the grill?
Cut chicken evenly and avoid overcooking—grill over medium-high heat and turn once for juicy results.
- → What pairs well with avocado salsa?
Grilled meats, tacos, grain bowls, or fresh salads wonderfully complement avocado salsa’s creamy texture.
- → Can I prepare skewers in advance?
Yes, you can thread and marinate the chicken up to a day ahead, then grill just before serving.
- → Are chicken skewers suitable for outdoor grilling?
Absolutely! They cook quickly, deliver excellent char, and are easy to flip over open flames or grills.