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This vibrant al pastor-style chicken skewers recipe transforms the traditional pork tacos al pastor into a delicious grilled chicken variation. The marinade combines citrus juices with achiote paste for that signature color and flavor, while grilled pineapple adds the perfect sweet contrast to the savory meat.
I first made these skewers for my sister's summer birthday party, and they've become our go-to grilling recipe. The combination of smoky char, tangy citrus, and sweet pineapple never fails to transport guests straight to a beachside taqueria in Mexico.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken thighs: the dark meat stays juicy on the grill and provides richer flavor than breast meat
- Pineapple juice: contains enzymes that help tenderize the meat while adding natural sweetness
- Orange juice: adds bright citrus notes that balance the richness of the achiote
- Apple cider vinegar: brings necessary acidity to cut through the fat and enhance flavors
- Achiote paste: provides the signature red-orange color and complex, earthy flavor profile
- Olive oil: helps distribute flavors and prevents sticking during grilling
- Garlic cloves: fresh minced garlic offers more potent flavor than pre-minced varieties
- Dried oregano: preferably Mexican oregano for its more citrusy, authentic flavor
- Ground cumin: adds warm, earthy undertones that complement the achiote
- Fresh pineapple chunks: select a ripe pineapple with fragrant bottom and slight give when pressed
How To Make Al Pastor-Style Chicken Skewers
- Create the marinade:
- Combine all liquid ingredients with achiote paste in a large bowl, whisking vigorously until the paste fully dissolves. This may take a minute or two as achiote paste can be quite firm. Add remaining spices and continue whisking until you achieve a smooth, vibrant orange marinade with no lumps.
- Marinate the chicken:
- Submerge chicken pieces completely in the marinade, using your hands to massage the mixture into the meat. Cover tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the chicken to eliminate air contact. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though overnight marination will develop much deeper flavor penetration.
- Prepare the grill:
- Clean grill grates thoroughly and oil them lightly to prevent sticking. Preheat to medium-high heat around 400°F. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning.
- Assemble the skewers:
- Thread chicken and pineapple in an alternating pattern, leaving small spaces between pieces to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the skewers as this will lead to steaming rather than proper charring.
- Grill to perfection:
- Place skewers on the hottest part of the grill. Resist the urge to move them constantly let them develop char marks before turning. Rotate every 2-3 minutes until all sides have beautiful caramelization and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Rest and serve:
- Transfer skewers to a clean platter and allow to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
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The achiote paste is truly the secret ingredient here. I discovered it years ago at a small Mexican market and have been obsessed ever since. My grandmother always said good food needs color to match its flavor, and the vibrant orange-red that achiote imparts proves her wisdom with every bite.
Make-Ahead Options
These skewers shine with meal prep potential. The chicken can be marinated up to 48 hours in advance, developing even deeper flavor. For ultimate convenience, you can thread the skewers the morning of your gathering and keep them covered in the refrigerator until grilling time. The flavors actually improve with time, making this an ideal prepare-ahead dish for entertaining.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on their own, these skewers reach new heights with thoughtful accompaniments. Serve them alongside warm corn tortillas, cilantro-lime rice, and a fresh avocado salad for a complete meal. For a more traditional presentation, offer diced onion, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges tableside. A smoky chipotle crema makes an excellent dipping sauce that complements the achiote flavors beautifully.
Substitutions Guide
No achiote paste? Create a substitute with 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1/4 teaspoon cumin, and a pinch of cloves. While not identical, it captures similar flavor notes. Chicken breast can replace thighs but reduce cooking time to prevent drying. Vegetarians can enjoy this recipe by substituting firm tofu or tempeh, though marinate these for only 30 minutes to prevent them from becoming too soft.
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Cultural Context
Al pastor has a fascinating cross-cultural history. The technique originated when Lebanese immigrants brought vertical spit-roasting to Mexico in the early 20th century. Mexicans adapted this method using local ingredients like achiote and pineapple, creating what we now know as tacos al pastor. This recipe honors that fusion tradition while making it accessible for home cooks without specialized equipment. The bright flavors and cooking technique connect us to generations of Mexican cooks who perfected this beloved street food.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cuts of chicken are best for skewers?
Boneless chicken thighs are ideal for skewers due to their juiciness and flavor. They cook evenly and don’t dry out easily on the grill.
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. However, a minimum of 1 hour will still yield great results.
- → Can I use a stovetop grill instead of an outdoor grill?
Yes, a stovetop grill pan works as a great alternative for cooking these skewers if an outdoor grill isn’t available.
- → What’s the purpose of achiote paste in the marinade?
Achiote paste adds a deep red color and earthy flavor, enhancing the marinade’s traditional Al Pastor-style seasoning.
- → Can I substitute fresh pineapple with canned pineapple?
Yes, canned pineapple can be used. Make sure to pat it dry before skewering to reduce excess moisture during grilling.
- → What side dishes go well with these skewers?
Serve these skewers with warm tortillas, Mexican rice, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.