Spicy Chicken & Chorizo Skewers with Creamy Cumin Aioli
Delight your taste buds with these Spicy Chicken & Chorizo Skewers that are bursting with flavor! The combination of tender chicken and savory chorizo creates a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for summer barbeques or casual gatherings. Though the original recipe called for marinating, we've discovered that grilling the skewers right after basting them with olive oil yields delicious results with minimal fuss! Accompanied by a creamy cumin aioli, this dish brings a rich, zesty kick that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the tantalizing flavors of Mexican cuisine in your own backyard!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mayonnaise
1 cup (None)
Garlic
1/2 teaspoon (Minced)
Ground Cumin
1 tablespoon (None)
Chorizo Sausage
6 (Sliced into 1/2 inch rounds)
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
1 1/2 lbs (Cut into 1 inch cubes)
Olive Oil
1 cup (Use less if just for basting)
Bamboo Skewers
12-14 (Soaked in water)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Chicken & Chorizo Skewers?
Spicy Chicken & Chorizo Skewers are a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breast and savory chorizo rounds grilled to perfection and served with a zesty cumin-infused mayonnaise sauce.
What ingredients are needed for the cumin aioli?
The aioli consists of 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of ground cumin mixed together.
How should I prepare the chorizo for the skewers?
The chorizo sausage should be sliced into rounds approximately 1/2 inch thick before being threaded onto the skewers.
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless skinless chicken breasts are recommended, cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
How many skewers does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to produce approximately 12 to 14 skewers.
Why do the bamboo skewers need to be soaked?
Soaking bamboo skewers in water prevents them from burning or catching fire while on the grill.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
While the original recipe suggested marinating, you can achieve delicious results by simply basting the skewers with olive oil immediately before grilling.
How much olive oil should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 cup, but you can use significantly less if you are only using it for basting purposes.
Is this recipe considered spicy?
Yes, the combination of chorizo sausage and cumin creates a zesty, spicy flavor profile characteristic of Mexican cuisine.
Can I use metal skewers instead of bamboo?
Yes, metal skewers can be used and do not require the soaking process that bamboo skewers do.
What type of cuisine does this dish represent?
This recipe is inspired by Mexican cuisine, featuring traditional flavors like chorizo, cumin, and garlic.
Can I cook these skewers indoors?
Yes, you can use an indoor grill pan or even bake them in the oven if an outdoor barbecue is not available.
How long should I soak the bamboo skewers?
It is recommended to soak them for at least 30 minutes to ensure they are sufficiently hydrated.
What is the best way to serve the cumin aioli?
The aioli is best served as a creamy dipping sauce on the side or drizzled over the hot skewers.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute and will provide a slightly juicier texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but you should verify that your chorizo and mayonnaise brands do not contain hidden gluten.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
Can I make the aioli in advance?
Yes, the aioli can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, which allows the garlic and cumin flavors to meld.
What side dishes go well with these skewers?
These skewers pair well with grilled corn on the cob, a fresh garden salad, or Mexican-style rice.
How thick should the chicken cubes be?
Cutting the chicken into 1-inch cubes ensures they cook at a similar rate to the chorizo rounds.
Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Absolutely! Adding bell peppers, onions, or zucchini between the meat pieces can add color and nutrition.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, this recipe is high in protein and healthy fats with very low carbohydrate content, making it keto-friendly.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover skewers should be removed from the sticks and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use garlic powder instead of minced garlic?
While fresh minced garlic is best for flavor, you can substitute 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder if necessary.
What if I don't have a grill?
You can bake the skewers in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, turning once.
Is it okay to use pre-cooked chorizo?
Yes, though fresh chorizo that you grill yourself typically offers a better texture and flavor for skewers.
Does the aioli require any lemon juice?
This specific recipe does not call for it, but a squeeze of lime or lemon can add a nice acidity if desired.
How do I prevent the meat from sticking to the grill?
Basting the skewers thoroughly with olive oil and ensuring the grill is preheated and clean will prevent sticking.
Can this recipe be doubled for a crowd?
Yes, this is an excellent recipe for large gatherings and the quantities can easily be scaled up.
Can I use a different oil for basting?
Yes, any neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado or canola oil, will work as a substitute for olive oil.