Habanero Skewer Recipe
Make Habanero Skewer Recipe in just 1h 5m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Skewers & Marinade
Skewer assembly & garnish
Optional cooling yogurt sauce
Method
Skewers & Marinade
- 1
Prepare chicken
Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut into 1 to 1 1/4-inch cubes so they thread easily onto skewers and cook evenly.
- 2
Handle habaneros safely
Put on disposable gloves. Slice the habanero peppers in half lengthwise, remove seeds and membranes to reduce heat (optional), then finely mince. Avoid touching face or eyes; wash hands thoroughly after removing gloves.
- 3
Make marinade
In a medium bowl whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic (press or finely chop), grated ginger, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the minced habanero, tasting a very small amount with caution to gauge heat.
- 4
Marinate chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours. For best flavor, 2 hours is recommended. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Skewer assembly & grilling
- 5
- 6
Assemble skewers
Thread marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between pieces so heat circulates. Alternate with chunks of red bell pepper and red onion for color and moisture. Reserve any remaining marinade but discard any that contacted raw chicken (or bring to a boil for one minute if you plan to use as a basting glaze).
- 7
Grill
Place skewers on the preheated grill. Cook 4–5 minutes per side, turning once or twice, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has a slight char. If broiling, arrange on a foil-lined tray and broil 3–4 minutes per side, watching closely to avoid burning the habanero bits.
- 8
Rest
Transfer cooked skewers to a platter and let rest for 5 minutes so juices redistribute.
Finish & serve
- 9
Garnish
Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the skewers and serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.
- 10
Optional cooling sauce
If making the yogurt sauce, whisk together plain yogurt, lime zest, honey, 1/4 tsp salt, and chopped cilantro in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve alongside skewers to balance the heat of the habanero.
- 11
