Spicy Chipotle Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Juicy shrimp coated in a smoky, spicy marinade and grilled to perfection – these flavor-packed skewers will be your new go-to easy dinner. A zesty blend of chipotle chilies, garlic, lime juice and cilantro infuses the shrimp with mouthwatering Mexican zing. The optional pineapple chunks add a touch of sweetness too. Ready in under 30 minutes, these shrimp skewers will fill your kitchen with irresistible aroma as they sizzle. Let’s get grilling!

Choosing the Best Shrimp

Look for fresh or thawed extra jumbo shrimp with the shells removed. Larger shrimp hold up best on skewers and the grill.

Peel, devein and pat the shrimp very dry before tossing with the marinade. Moisture prevents sticking and caramelization.

Soak bamboo skewers in water at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

Substitute Scallops or Fish

The zesty marinade also pairs well with sea scallops, whitefish or salmon fillets.

A Bold Mexican-Style Marinade

Whisk together olive oil, chipotle peppers, lime juice, cilantro, garlic and spices for a flavor-packed shrimp marinade.

Chipotle chilies in adobo add smoky heat. Cumin, oregano, chili powder and red pepper flakes pump up the spice level too.

Let shrimp marinate 15-30 minutes for flavors to penetrate. Add cubed pineapple the last 10 minutes if using.

Give It a Rest

Letting shrimp sit 5 minutes after grilling allows juices to reabsorb for juicier, more tender texture.

Get Grilling

Heat a grill or grill pan to medium high. Lightly oil grates to prevent sticking. Grill shrimp skewers 2-3 minutes per side until opaque.

Turn the skewers carefully to prevent shrimp falling through the grates. Charred grill marks add amazing flavor.

Baste with extra marinade during last 30 seconds if desired. Don’t overcook or shrimp will be rubbery.

Add Sweet Pineapple

For sweet complexity, thread marinated shrimp and cubes of pineapple onto the skewers.

Look for fresh, ripe pineapple for the best flavor. The fruit caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

Let excess marinade drip off before grilling if using fruit to avoid burning from excess sugar.

Finish with Fresh Lime

Right before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over shrimp skewers to brighten all the fabulous flavors.

Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and diced avocado for extra richness. Serve with coconut rice and beans.

Leftovers keep refrigerated up to 3 days. Reheat gently to serve again.

Conclusion

With an easy marinade bursting with chipotle, garlic and lime, these shrimp skewers deliver big, bold Mexican flavor in under 30 minutes. Smoky, spicy and subtly sweet grilled shrimp offer endless adaptability as an appetizer, taco topping or protein-packed entree. The optional pineapple provides caramelized tang too. Fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy backyard magic.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw overnight first. Pat very dry before marinating.

2. What if I don't have a grill?

You can broil the skewers in the oven. Use a grill pan for grill marks.

3. How long will the marinade keep?

Store covered in the fridge up to 5 days. Marinate shrimp just before grilling.

4. What sides go well with them?

Rice, beans, grilled vegetables, salad, guacamole and warm tortillas.

5. Can I prepare them in advance?

Yes, grill skewers then refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.