Grilled Chicken Fajita Skewers with Fresh Guacamole
Juicy grilled chicken skewers marinated in zesty Mexican spices and threaded with colorful bell peppers and onions, these Grilled Chicken Fajita Skewers are full of smoky flavor and vibrant color. Paired with creamy homemade guacamole, this dish is perfect for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers all the flavor of traditional fajitas with the added charm of skewered presentation, making it ideal for grilling season. The chicken is marinated for maximum tenderness and flavor, and the colorful peppers and onions add a satisfying crunch. Paired with fresh guacamole, it’s a wholesome, crowd-pleasing dish that is easy to prep, fun to cook, and endlessly satisfying.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 large white onion, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Guacamole:
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with bell peppers and onion chunks for a colorful presentation.
- Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Meanwhile, prepare the guacamole: In a medium bowl, mash the avocados, then stir in the red onion, tomato, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix until creamy with some chunks remaining.
- Serve the grilled skewers hot with guacamole on the side. Garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro as desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 37 minutes
Variations
- Use chicken thighs: For a juicier result, substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless thighs.
- Add zucchini or mushrooms: Thread additional vegetables for more variety and nutrition.
- Spicy version: Increase the chili powder or add cayenne for more heat.
- Oven or stovetop option: Cook the skewers under a broiler or on a grill pan if a grill isn’t available.
- Serve as tacos: Slide the grilled ingredients into tortillas and top with guacamole for easy fajita tacos.
storage/reheating
Storage: Store leftover skewers and guacamole separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The skewers will keep for up to 3 days, while the guacamole is best enjoyed within 1 day.
Reheating: Reheat the skewers on a skillet or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid reheating guacamole; serve it cold or freshly made.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables up to a day in advance. Assemble the skewers and grill just before serving.
Can I use pre-made guacamole?
You can use store-bought guacamole in a pinch, but homemade delivers the freshest flavor and better texture.
What type of grill should I use?
This recipe works well on a gas grill, charcoal grill, or grill pan. Just ensure the grill is preheated and well-oiled.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and show no pink in the center.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken (without the vegetables) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
What other dips go well with this?
In addition to guacamole, try serving with salsa, sour cream, or chipotle aioli.
Are these skewers suitable for meal prep?
Yes, grilled chicken fajita skewers store well and can be portioned for lunches. Keep guacamole separate until ready to eat.
Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
Yes, this dish is naturally low in carbs and suitable for a keto-friendly meal when served without tortillas.
How do I keep the skewers from sticking to the grill?
Oil the grill grates well before placing the skewers and avoid moving them too early to allow a sear to form.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken Fajita Skewers with Fresh Guacamole is a bold and flavorful dish that brings the spirit of a Mexican cookout to your kitchen or backyard. Easy to prepare, visually stunning, and deliciously satisfying, it’s a versatile meal that can be adapted to your preferences and enjoyed all year round. Serve it at your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time.
PrintGrilled Chicken Fajita Skewers with Fresh Guacamole
Juicy grilled chicken skewers marinated in Mexican spices and threaded with colorful bell peppers and onions, served with creamy homemade guacamole – a bold, smoky, and vibrant dish perfect for cookouts and fiestas.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 large white onion, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes if using.
- Thread marinated chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers, alternating pieces for a colorful display.
- Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
- For the guacamole, mash avocados in a bowl, then stir in red onion, tomato, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix until creamy but slightly chunky.
- Serve skewers hot with guacamole on the side and garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Add pineapple chunks to skewers for a sweet twist.
- Guacamole can be made a few hours ahead; cover tightly with plastic wrap to avoid browning.
- Serve with warm tortillas for a fajita-style wrap option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken skewers, fajita, grilled chicken, guacamole, Mexican, gluten free, cookout, summer recipe