Spicy Chili Filet Mignon Skewers
Highlighted under: Hearty Food Recipes
I love making Spicy Chili Filet Mignon Skewers for gatherings because they are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The tender filet mignon marinated in a spicy chili blend melts in your mouth and brings bold flavors to each bite. Perfect for grilling, these skewers add excitement to any barbecue or dinner party. I enjoy serving them with a zesty dipping sauce that enhances the flavor even more. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
When I first experimented with these Spicy Chili Filet Mignon Skewers, I was amazed at how the marinade transformed the meat. Using a blend of chili powder, garlic, and lime juice brings a perfect kick to the tender filet, and marinating it for at least an hour gives it a depth of flavor that impresses every time.
I also discovered that skewering the meat allows for even cooking on the grill, giving each piece a lovely char. If you want to elevate the dish, try pairing it with a mango salsa—it complements the spice beautifully!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A tantalizing blend of spicy flavors that excites your taste buds
- Tender filet mignon grilled to perfection with a delightful char
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings
Marinating for Maximum Flavor
Marinating the filet mignon is a crucial step in achieving that perfect burst of flavor. The combination of chili powder and cumin not only adds spice but also enhances the natural richness of the meat. For best results, let the filet marinate for at least one hour; however, if time allows, marinating for up to four hours can deepen the flavors significantly. Just remember to cover the bowl to prevent contamination and infuse the meat thoroughly.
When preparing the marinade, ensure that all ingredients are mixed well until fully combined. This ensures that every piece of meat receives an equal coating. Consider using a resealable plastic bag for marinating: it allows you to easily flip and coat the meat without mess, and it maximizes the surface area exposed to the marinade.
Choosing the Right Skewers
Selecting the right skewers is key to perfectly grilled filet mignon. If you're using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes is essential. This prevents them from burning on the grill and ensures they hold the meat securely. If you opt for metal skewers, they can be placed directly on the heat without any preparation, but make sure to use gloves or tongs when handling them as they can get extremely hot.
When threading the meat onto the skewers, aim for uniformity in size—approximately 1-inch cubes work best. This not only provides an appealing presentation but also ensures even cooking. Leave a small gap between each piece; this allows heat to circulate freely, resulting in evenly grilled, succulent bites.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Skewers
- 1 lb filet mignon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Optional:
Mango salsa for serving
Instructions
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, minced garlic, lime juice, and salt. Add the filet mignon cubes to the marinade and coat well. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Skewer the Meat
Once marinated, thread the filet mignon pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Grill the Skewers
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked to your desired doneness.
Serve
Remove skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with mango salsa if desired.
Pro Tips
- Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
These Spicy Chili Filet Mignon Skewers are fantastic served as-is, but pairing them with a refreshing mango salsa elevates the dish significantly. The sweetness and acidity of the mango complement the heat from the skewers beautifully. To make a simple mango salsa, cube fresh mango, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro, then combine them with lime juice and a pinch of salt for a zesty finish.
For those looking for a different twist, consider serving the skewers with a creamy avocado dip or spicy yogurt sauce. The coolness of these dips contrasts wonderfully with the spices, providing a balanced taste experience. This mix of flavors and textures is sure to impress your guests during barbecue parties.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you're planning for a gathering, preparing these skewers in advance can save you time. Marinate the filet mignon the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also allows for a truly convenient cooking process on the day of your event. Just remember to skewer the meat right before grilling to preserve its moisture and tenderness.
If you have leftover skewers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheating can be done on the stovetop or grill, but be careful not to overcook them, as this will cause the filet mignon to lose its juicy texture. To reheat, grill on low heat for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes! You can substitute the filet mignon with sirloin or chicken for a different flavor.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make these skewers in advance?
Absolutely! Marinate the meat the night before and skewer them the next day for quick grilling.
→ What should I serve with these skewers?
These skewers pair well with a fresh salad, rice, or grilled vegetables.
Spicy Chili Filet Mignon Skewers
I love making Spicy Chili Filet Mignon Skewers for gatherings because they are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The tender filet mignon marinated in a spicy chili blend melts in your mouth and brings bold flavors to each bite. Perfect for grilling, these skewers add excitement to any barbecue or dinner party. I enjoy serving them with a zesty dipping sauce that enhances the flavor even more. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Created by: Lena
Recipe Type: Hearty Food Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 skewers
What You'll Need
For the Skewers
- 1 lb filet mignon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, minced garlic, lime juice, and salt. Add the filet mignon cubes to the marinade and coat well. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Once marinated, thread the filet mignon pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked to your desired doneness.
Remove skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with mango salsa if desired.
Extra Tips
- Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 410mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 40g