If you love the perfect balance of sweet heat and smoky char, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Spicy Honey Jalapeno Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Lime Dip Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy chicken morsels marinated in a vibrant blend of honey, jalapenos, and spices, grilled to perfection and paired with a cool, zesty cilantro lime dip that elevates every bite. This dish is a true flavor superstar that’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to impress friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, straightforward ingredients is the first step to nailing this recipe. Each item plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding a punch of spice, a touch of sweetness, or a creamy, tangy finish that brings the whole dish together beautifully.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and great bite-sized flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and richness while helping the marinade coat the chicken perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Brings a natural sweetness that balances the heat from jalapenos.
- 1-2 fresh jalapenos, finely chopped: The star of the dish, adding fresh, vibrant spicy notes.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Introduces a subtle umami depth to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a mellow garlic flavor that complements richness and spice.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile of the marinade.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a smoky undertone that’s perfect for grilling.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
- Wooden skewers, soaked for 30 minutes: Prevents burning and makes grilling easier.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Forms the creamy base for the cilantro lime dip.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture to the dip.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Brightens the dip with a zesty, refreshing kick.
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped: Brings herbal freshness and color to the dip.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle garlic note to the dip.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing the dip’s flavors.
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional): A touch of sweetness in the dip to complement the spicy chicken.
How to Make Spicy Honey Jalapeno Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Lime Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together olive oil, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and finely chopped fresh jalapenos. This marinade is packed with flavor, combining the right amount of sweetness and heat to infuse the chicken before it hits the grill.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to your marinade and toss everything until the chicken is completely coated. Cover and place in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This step is crucial because it allows those spicy, sweet flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, making every bite tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Make the Cilantro Lime Dip
While your chicken marinates, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Optionally stir in a tablespoon of honey if you want a slightly sweeter dip to contrast the heat of the skewers. Chill until you’re ready to serve—it’s the perfect cool companion to the grilled chicken.
Step 4: Get Your Grill Ready
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you are using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. This prep makes threading and grilling the chicken slices hassle-free and safe.
Step 5: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This spacing ensures the chicken cooks evenly and develops those gorgeous grill marks that deliver flavor and texture.
Step 6: Grill to Perfection
Place the chicken skewers over the hot grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side. Look for a beautifully charred exterior and ensure the chicken is cooked through. The aroma at this point is irresistible—sweet, spicy, and smoky all at once.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, serve your Spicy Honey Jalapeno Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Lime Dip Recipe immediately. The warm chicken with its sticky glaze and the cool, zesty dip make the perfect combination that everyone will rave about.
How to Serve Spicy Honey Jalapeno Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Lime Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro leaves and a wedge of lime are simple but stunning garnishes that add a pop of color and extra freshness. Scatter a few finely chopped jalapeno slices on top if you want to dial up the heat and impress your spice-loving guests.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think fluffy cilantro lime rice, grilled corn on the cob, or even a crisp mixed green salad. For something heartier, roasted sweet potatoes or a cool cucumber salad offer fantastic texture contrasts and keep the flavors vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by serving the chicken skewers on a rustic wooden board beside small bowls of the cilantro lime dip. Add colorful grilled veggies around the edges for a feast that looks as good as it tastes. For casual gatherings, place skewers in a tall glass or jar upright—it’s visually fun and keeps things neat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the grilled chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the cilantro lime dip separate to preserve its freshness and flavor. This way, you can enjoy the deliciousness without sacrificing taste or texture.
Freezing
The chicken skewers freeze well if you want to keep them longer. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer bag. Frozen, they will maintain their quality for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the skewers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken. Serve again with fresh cilantro lime dip for that just-made taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have a bit more fat, which means they stay extra juicy and impart an even richer flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly if the pieces are thicker.
How spicy is the dish?
The heat level depends on how many jalapenos you use and whether you include the seeds. Using one jalapeno or removing the seeds will give a milder, pleasant spice, while two jalapenos with seeds will pack more heat.
Is there a substitute for sour cream in the dip?
Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or even a dairy-free alternative if you prefer. Greek yogurt adds creaminess with a bit of tang, making it a fantastic stand-in for sour cream.
Can I make this recipe indoors using a grill pan?
Definitely. A grill pan on your stovetop will work well for cooking the skewers, giving lovely grill marks and that grilled flavor. Just keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning.
What if I don’t have wooden skewers?
You can use metal skewers as a great alternative—they are reusable and sturdy. Just be sure to handle them carefully as they get hot during grilling.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Spicy Honey Jalapeno Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Lime Dip Recipe that brings bold flavors and effortless grilling fun together in one delicious package. Whether you’re cooking for a weekend barbecue or a simple family dinner, this recipe is a winner that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to try it—you’ll soon see why it’s a personal favorite and a crowd-pleaser every time.
Print
Spicy Honey Jalapeno Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Lime Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Spicy Honey Jalapeno Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Lime Dip offer a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a honey-jalapeno mixture, grilled to perfection, and served with a refreshing cilantro lime creamy dip. Perfect for summer grilling or a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1–2 fresh jalapenos, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes (if using)
Cilantro Lime Dip
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and finely chopped jalapenos until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Make the cilantro lime dip: In a separate bowl, mix sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and garlic powder. Season with salt, pepper, and optional honey for added sweetness. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
- Assemble skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving small gaps between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Grill the chicken: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has developed charred grill marks.
- Serve: Remove skewers from the grill, garnish with the cilantro lime dip, and serve immediately with your favorite sides for a perfect meal.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Adjust the number of jalapenos based on your heat preference.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter dip option.
- Chicken is fully cooked when internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
