Grilled Chicken Al Pastor Skewers (Printable Version)

Smoky achiote-marinated chicken and sweet pineapple grilled on skewers, finished with cilantro and lime.

# Ingredient List:

→ For the Marinade

01 - 3 dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded
02 - 2 tbsp achiote paste
03 - 2 garlic cloves
04 - 1/4 cup orange juice
05 - 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
06 - 2 tbsp pineapple juice
07 - 1 tsp dried oregano
08 - 1 tsp ground cumin
09 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
10 - 1/2 tsp salt
11 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Proteins & Produce

12 - 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
13 - 1/2 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
14 - 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks (optional)

→ For Grilling & Garnish

15 - 2 tbsp vegetable oil
16 - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
17 - Lime wedges (for serving)

# How to Make It:

01 - Soak the guajillo chiles in hot water for 10 minutes until soft. Drain.
02 - In a blender, combine soaked chiles, achiote paste, garlic, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, pineapple juice, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
03 - Place chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour marinade over chicken, toss to coat, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (up to overnight).
04 - Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
05 - Thread marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, and onion pieces (if using) alternately onto soaked wooden or metal skewers.
06 - Brush skewers lightly with vegetable oil.
07 - Grill skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred at the edges.
08 - Transfer to a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Smoky, citrus-marinated chicken with authentic al pastor flavor – no spit required.
  • Easy-to-eat skewers with caramelized pineapple for irresistible sweet-savory bites.
  • Perfect for grilling season, picnics, and simple weeknight meals.
  • Gluten-free with naturally wholesome ingredients.
02 -
  • Verwenden Sie Hähnchenschenkel, damit das Fleisch beim Grillen schön saftig bleibt.
  • Für mehr Röstaroma gelegentlich etwas vom restlichen Marinade während des Grillens auftragen.
  • Überprüfen Sie die Zutaten der Achiote-Paste auf eventuelle Allergene, besonders bei glutenfreien Bedürfnissen.
  • Mit Tongs wenden und darauf achten, die Spieße nicht zu lange zu grillen.
Go Back