35+ Deliciously Easy Mexican BBQ Chicken Recipes for Every Season

If you’re looking to elevate your BBQ game and add some authentic Mexican flavors to your outdoor cooking, look no further.

Mexican BBQ chicken is an exciting and flavorful twist on traditional BBQ. It combines vibrant spices, fresh ingredients, and savory marinades that create mouthwatering dishes.

Whether you love sweet and smoky, tangy and spicy, or rich and creamy, Mexican BBQ chicken recipes have something for everyone.

In this blog post, we’re diving into 35+ unique and creative ways to prepare BBQ chicken with a Mexican flair.

From tangy salsas to fiery habaneros, these recipes will transform your grilling experience and have everyone at the table craving more.

35+ Deliciously Easy Mexican BBQ Chicken Recipes for Every Season

Mexican BBQ chicken recipes are a perfect way to explore bold flavors and bring a taste of Mexico to your grill.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just cooking dinner for the family, these recipes are guaranteed to impress.

The variety of marinades, salsas, and spice combinations allows you to customize your BBQ chicken to suit any taste.

So fire up your grill, get creative with these recipes, and enjoy the rich, smoky, and spicy flavors that Mexican BBQ chicken offers.

With over 35 recipes to choose from, you’ll never run out of delicious options to try. Happy grilling!

Smoky Chipotle Mexican BBQ Chicken

This Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken brings together the bold flavors of chipotle peppers and traditional Mexican spices to create a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy dish. Perfect for grilling enthusiasts, this recipe offers a restaurant-quality flavor that will wow your family and friends. The chipotle marinade infuses the chicken with deep smokiness, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup adobo sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, honey, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
4. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Brush with additional marinade while grilling for added flavor.
6. Serve with warm tortillas, guacamole, and grilled veggies.

The Smoky Chipotle Mexican BBQ Chicken is a testament to how bold, smoky, and spicy flavors can elevate your grilling game. The marinade works wonders, tenderizing the chicken and imparting a rich depth of flavor. Pair this dish with your favorite sides for a vibrant, satisfying meal that embodies the essence of Mexican BBQ.

Lime-Cilantro Grilled Mexican BBQ Chicken

The Lime-Cilantro Grilled Mexican BBQ Chicken is a fresh and zesty dish that highlights the tanginess of lime and the herbal notes of cilantro. This recipe is perfect for warm-weather cookouts, offering a light yet flavorful profile that pairs beautifully with fresh salsas and creamy sauces.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• Zest of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, chili powder, coriander, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring even coverage. Let marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges before serving.

This Lime-Cilantro Grilled Mexican BBQ Chicken is a vibrant addition to your BBQ repertoire. The fresh lime and cilantro combination makes this dish stand out with its refreshing flavors, while the grilling process adds a smoky touch. Serve it with a side of Mexican street corn or a fresh avocado salad for a balanced and flavorful meal.

Ancho-Chile Mexican BBQ Chicken Skewers

These Ancho-Chile Mexican BBQ Chicken Skewers are a fantastic way to enjoy the earthy, slightly sweet flavor of ancho chili powder. Combined with a hint of heat and citrus, this recipe is a guaranteed hit for gatherings. The skewers make it easy to serve, and the vibrant spices ensure each bite is packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons ancho chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the ancho chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, olive oil, orange juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and marinate for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread the chicken onto the skewers.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Serve with a creamy dipping sauce or pico de gallo.

The Ancho-Chile Mexican BBQ Chicken Skewers are a versatile and flavorful option for your next barbecue. The deep, earthy flavors of ancho chili paired with the citrusy sweetness of orange juice make these skewers irresistible. They are perfect as an appetizer or a main dish alongside Mexican rice and beans.

Tequila Lime BBQ Chicken

Tequila Lime BBQ Chicken is a bold recipe that combines the tangy brightness of lime with the unique depth of tequila. This dish is a must-try for adventurous food lovers who enjoy experimenting with dynamic flavor combinations. The marinade guarantees a juicy, tender outcome.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup tequila
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together tequila, lime juice, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken drumsticks in a resealable plastic bag and pour in the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 8-10 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with the marinade. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve hot with lime wedges and a side of Mexican slaw.

Tequila Lime BBQ Chicken is an exciting dish that embodies the essence of Mexican culinary creativity. The tequila adds a depth of flavor, while the lime brings a refreshing tang. Pair this dish with vibrant sides for a festive and memorable meal.

Guajillo Honey-Glazed BBQ Chicken

Guajillo Honey-Glazed BBQ Chicken is a masterpiece of sweet and smoky flavors. The guajillo chilies provide a mild heat and deep red color, while the honey glaze adds a luscious sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. This recipe is a visual and culinary delight.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken legs and thighs
• 3 dried guajillo chilies, seeds removed and rehydrated
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Blend the rehydrated guajillo chilies with honey, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for 3-4 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, brushing with the glaze as it cooks.
5. Serve with Mexican rice and roasted vegetables.

The Guajillo Honey-Glazed BBQ Chicken is a sophisticated yet simple recipe that highlights the nuanced flavors of guajillo chilies. The honey glaze creates a glossy finish, making this dish as visually stunning as it is delicious. Pair it with your favorite Mexican sides for a complete feast.

Mexican Mole BBQ Chicken

Mexican Mole BBQ Chicken is a rich, deep-flavored dish that combines the complex, earthy sauce of mole with the charred goodness of BBQ chicken. Mole, made with a variety of spices, cocoa, and chili peppers, transforms this BBQ dish into a flavorful journey that offers a balance of heat, sweetness, and smokiness.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup mole sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. In a small saucepan, heat the mole sauce with chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the mole sauce onto the chicken, coating it evenly.
6. Serve with a side of rice or roasted potatoes and garnish with chopped cilantro.

Mexican Mole BBQ Chicken is a perfect combination of traditional BBQ flavors and the richness of mole. The smoky, sweet, and slightly bitter flavors meld together to create a memorable dish. This recipe is ideal for those looking to bring a touch of sophistication and depth to their BBQ meals, serving as a great main course for any gathering.

Yucatan Citrus BBQ Chicken

Inspired by the vibrant flavors of the Yucatan Peninsula, this Citrus BBQ Chicken is tangy, zesty, and refreshing. With a marinade of orange, lime, and achiote, this chicken is packed with citrusy notes that are complemented by the earthy depth of the achiote. Ideal for both grilling and slow roasting, this dish is perfect for outdoor cookouts.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 tablespoons achiote paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the orange juice, lime juice, achiote paste, olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 7-9 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, and fresh salsa.

Yucatan Citrus BBQ Chicken is a bright and aromatic dish, full of flavors that capture the essence of the Yucatan Peninsula. The citrusy marinade helps tenderize the chicken while infusing it with fresh, tangy flavors. Serve this vibrant dish for a lively BBQ experience that pairs perfectly with cool, refreshing sides.

Habanero Pineapple BBQ Chicken

The combination of spicy habanero and sweet pineapple creates a tantalizing flavor profile for this BBQ chicken recipe. The heat from the habaneros is balanced by the juicy, tropical sweetness of pineapple, resulting in a juicy, flavorful chicken dish. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of heat and sweetness in their barbecue meals.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1-2 habanero peppers, seeds removed and minced
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine pineapple juice, lime juice, honey, habanero peppers, pineapple chunks, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the marinade.
5. Serve with a side of grilled pineapple slices and a cooling avocado salad.

Habanero Pineapple BBQ Chicken brings the perfect combination of sweet and spicy to your BBQ table. The tropical pineapple cuts through the heat of the habaneros, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that is sure to please both spice lovers and those seeking something sweet. Pair it with a refreshing side to help cool off the heat.

BBQ Chicken with Mexican Street Corn Sauce

BBQ Chicken with Mexican Street Corn Sauce is a unique dish that elevates the classic BBQ chicken by topping it with the delicious, creamy, and tangy sauce inspired by Mexican street corn. The combination of grilled chicken and the rich, cheesy sauce creates a comforting, flavorful meal that is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. While grilling, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Once the chicken is grilled, generously spoon the Mexican street corn sauce over the chicken.
6. Serve with a side of grilled corn and a wedge of lime.

BBQ Chicken with Mexican Street Corn Sauce is a flavorful, creamy twist on traditional BBQ chicken. The combination of smoky grilled chicken and the indulgent corn sauce makes for a satisfying meal that celebrates the richness of Mexican flavors. Serve it with additional corn or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Adobo BBQ Chicken

Adobo BBQ Chicken is a savory and aromatic dish that brings together the smoky and earthy flavors of adobo seasoning. This BBQ recipe features a marinade that creates a crispy, flavorful skin and tender meat that is ideal for both grilling and roasting. The adobo seasoning’s balance of spices makes this chicken an unforgettable experience.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
• 2 tablespoons adobo seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the adobo seasoning, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the chicken legs with the marinade, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 10-12 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve with rice, beans, and grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Adobo BBQ Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that packs a punch with its combination of spices and tangy vinegar. The adobo seasoning creates a savory, smoky crust on the chicken, making each bite satisfying. This dish pairs wonderfully with classic Mexican sides, creating a deliciously filling meal.

Salsa Verde BBQ Chicken

Salsa Verde BBQ Chicken blends the fresh, tangy taste of salsa verde with the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken. The tanginess from tomatillos and the heat from jalapeños in the salsa verde add a unique twist to the traditional BBQ, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that will make this dish a standout at any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts (bone-in or boneless)
• 1 1/2 cups salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. While grilling, heat the salsa verde in a small saucepan over medium heat, allowing it to simmer for 5-7 minutes to intensify the flavor.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, generously spoon the warm salsa verde over the chicken.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with a side of Mexican rice or grilled vegetables.

Salsa Verde BBQ Chicken is an easy-to-make dish that brings a refreshing twist to traditional BBQ flavors. The zesty salsa verde not only adds tang but also complements the smoky grilled chicken beautifully. It’s the perfect dish to serve for a light yet flavorful BBQ meal, and the garnish of cilantro enhances its vibrancy.

Mexican BBQ Chicken with Avocado Crema

This recipe combines the smoky goodness of BBQ chicken with the creamy, cool contrast of avocado crema, making it a well-rounded and irresistible dish. The richness of avocado crema pairs perfectly with the smoky and spicy BBQ chicken, creating a delicious fusion of flavors that are both bold and refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 7-9 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. While grilling, prepare the avocado crema by blending the ripe avocado, sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt in a blender until smooth.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, serve with a generous dollop of avocado crema on top or on the side.
6. Garnish with extra cilantro and a lime wedge.

Mexican BBQ Chicken with Avocado Crema is an exciting and satisfying dish that combines the heat of BBQ chicken with the creamy coolness of avocado crema. The rich, buttery texture of the avocado adds depth to the smoky flavors of the chicken, creating a perfect balance. Serve this with a side of fresh salad or grilled corn for a well-rounded meal.

Pibil-style BBQ Chicken

Inspired by the traditional Pibil-style cooking from the Yucatan Peninsula, this Pibil-style BBQ Chicken incorporates the smoky flavors of achiote and the earthy tang of citrus. Slow-cooked or grilled to perfection, this chicken has a depth of flavor that is juicy, aromatic, and perfect for those who love authentic Mexican cooking.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in)
• 2 tablespoons achiote paste
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the achiote paste, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, oregano, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
2. Coat the chicken thighs in the marinade and refrigerate for 2-4 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 8-10 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with the marinade.
5. Serve the chicken with a side of Mexican rice, grilled onions, or pickled red onions for a traditional touch.

Pibil-style BBQ Chicken is an aromatic, flavorful dish that celebrates the traditional cooking methods of Mexico. The achiote paste gives the chicken its characteristic red color and deep flavor, while the citrus adds a refreshing tang. This dish is perfect for those who want to explore rich Mexican flavors at their next BBQ.

Mango-Habanero BBQ Chicken

Mango-Habanero BBQ Chicken is a sweet and spicy dish that combines the tropical sweetness of mango with the fiery heat of habanero peppers. The fruitiness of the mango provides a natural sweetness that balances the heat, while the smoky BBQ flavor rounds out this delicious, fiery dish. Ideal for those who enjoy a bold flavor combination.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1-2 habanero peppers, seeds removed and minced
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the diced mango, habanero peppers, orange juice, honey, ginger, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Coat the chicken breasts with the mango-habanero sauce and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to marinate.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, basting with more mango-habanero sauce as it cooks.
5. Serve with a side of grilled corn, cilantro rice, or a fresh salad.

Mango-Habanero BBQ Chicken offers a wonderful balance of sweet and spicy, making it a perfect dish for those who love a bit of heat with their barbecue. The mango provides a luscious sweetness that beautifully offsets the intense heat of the habanero. Serve it with cooling sides to balance the heat for a complete meal.

Charred Garlic & Lime BBQ Chicken

Charred Garlic & Lime BBQ Chicken is a savory and tangy dish that enhances the smoky BBQ flavors with garlic’s rich depth and lime’s refreshing citrusy punch. The marinated chicken, with its garlicky flavor and zesty lime, offers a delicious and straightforward BBQ option that is both flavorful and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken legs or thighs
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the chicken with the marinade and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with the marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a side of cilantro-lime rice.

Charred Garlic & Lime BBQ Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that lets the garlic and lime shine. The charred garlic adds depth, while the lime brightens the overall flavor profile. It’s a perfect BBQ dish for anyone looking for a zesty, satisfying meal that pairs well with a variety of sides.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!