Tropical Grilled Mango Chicken Skewers

Welcome to your new favorite grilling sensation: Mango Chicken Skewers! This delightful recipe transforms ordinary chicken breasts or thighs into an extraordinary meal, bursting with vibrant flavors. A simple yet incredibly effective marinade, infused with zesty orange and a hint of sriracha, tenderizes the chicken while imparting a balanced sweet and spicy kick that’s surprisingly manageable for all palates. Serve these succulent skewers with a refreshing, homemade mango salsa, and you’ve got a flavor and texture combination that will instantly transport you to a tropical paradise, perfect with a side of fluffy rice, roasted potatoes, or crisp salad greens.

Grilled Mango Chicken Skewers: A Flavorful Summer Essential

There’s something uniquely satisfying about cooking dinner on the grill. It’s a method I turn to time and again, not just for its speed and simplicity, but also for the incredible depth of flavor it imparts to food. Grilling is inherently healthier, locking in juices and flavors without the need for excessive oils, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome meal. Our Mango Chicken Skewers recipe perfectly embodies this philosophy, offering a culinary adventure that’s both quick to prepare and incredibly rewarding.

The star of this dish, besides the chicken itself, is undeniably the marinade. Crafted from the bright notes of orange juice and a touch of sriracha, it provides a gentle warmth that enhances the chicken without overpowering it. This ensures that even those who prefer a milder flavor profile can enjoy the intricate blend of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Paired with a vibrant mango salsa, these skewers are more than just a meal; they’re an experience.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Mango Chicken Skewers

These Mango Chicken Skewers aren’t just another chicken recipe; they’re a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple grilling techniques. Here’s why this dish is destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire:

Explosion of Flavor: The harmonious blend of sweet mango, tangy orange, pungent garlic, and a subtle sriracha kick creates a marinade that’s truly unforgettable. Each bite offers a juicy, tender piece of chicken infused with these incredible tropical notes.
Effortlessly Easy: From prepping the marinade to grilling the skewers, this recipe is designed for minimal fuss. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a gourmet meal without the lengthy preparation.
Healthy and Wholesome: Featuring lean protein and fresh fruits and vegetables, this dish is a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Grilling further contributes to a lighter meal.
Customizable Heat: The sriracha allows you to control the spice level. Add a little for a gentle warmth or more for a bolder, fiery experience, catering to everyone’s preference.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer classic rice, hearty potatoes, or a light green salad, these skewers pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it easy to adapt to your mood or dietary needs.
Perfect for Entertaining: Skewers are inherently fun and make for an attractive presentation. They are easy to serve at barbecues, potlucks, or any casual get-together, allowing guests to enjoy individual portions with ease.

Choosing the Right Skewers for Perfect Kabobs

The type of skewer you choose can impact your grilling experience. While there are several options available, my personal preference for kabobs often leans towards wooden skewers. Their affordability and ease of use, especially when preparing multiple portions for a group, make them a practical choice.

However, if you opt for wooden skewers, a crucial step is to soak them thoroughly in water for at least 15 to 30 minutes before threading your meat and vegetables. This prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring your kabobs cook evenly and safely. Alternatively, metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking, but they can get very hot, so handle with care using grilling tongs or heat-resistant gloves.

Mastering the Mango Salsa: Fresh vs. Frozen

The homemade mango salsa is an integral part of this recipe, adding a layer of freshness, sweetness, and a delightful textural contrast to the grilled chicken. For the best possible flavor and texture, I highly recommend using fresh, ripe mangoes. A ripe mango will yield a sweet, juicy pulp that holds its shape beautifully when diced, contributing significantly to the salsa’s appeal.

If fresh ripe mangoes are unavailable, frozen mango can serve as a substitute. However, it’s imperative to thaw the frozen mango completely and drain any excess liquid before incorporating it into the salsa. Skipping this step will result in a watery salsa with diluted flavors, detracting from the overall dish. I strongly advise against using canned or jarred mangoes for this recipe, as they often have a mushy consistency that won’t provide the desired texture. If you happen to know a specific brand that offers firm, high-quality jarred mango, you may consider it, but fresh is always superior for this application.

Meal Prep and Freezing: Enjoy Later with Ease

These Mango Chicken Skewers are fantastic for meal prepping, offering two convenient methods for freezing and enjoying later:

Marinade and Freeze Raw Chicken: Prepare the marinade and cut your chicken into bite-sized chunks. Combine the chicken and marinade in a large, heavy-duty freezer-safe bag. For extra security against leaks, place this bag inside another one. Label clearly with the date and recipe name. Freeze until you’re ready to cook. When mealtime approaches, transfer the bag from the freezer to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, thread the chicken onto skewers and grill as directed. While citrus in marinades can sometimes tenderize chicken excessively if left too long, freezing immediately and cooking once thawed typically prevents this issue.
Freeze Cooked Chicken: Follow the recipe completely, grilling the chicken skewers as instructed. Once the chicken has cooled completely, remove it from the skewers and place the cooked chunks into a freezer-safe storage bag or airtight container. Freeze until needed. To serve, simply remove from the freezer and thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a pan, oven, or microwave until warmed through. This method is perfect for quick lunches or dinners when you have minimal time for cooking.

What to Serve with Your Mango Chicken Skewers

While the mango salsa is a non-negotiable accompaniment for your grilled chicken, creating an irresistible topping, you might want to round out your meal with some hearty and delicious side dishes. The versatility of these skewers means they pair well with a wide array of options, depending on your preferences:

Classic Carbs: Fluffy white rice, aromatic jasmine rice, or nutty brown rice are always excellent choices. For a heartier option, these skewers are superb with creamy homemade mashed potatoes—a universal comfort food that complements nearly any main course. If you enjoy a touch of spice and unique presentation, my spicy cilantro Hasselback potatoes echo the subtle heat of the marinade and make for an exciting pairing. Alternatively, herbed parmesan potatoes offer a mild yet flavorful counterpoint.
Fresh Salads: Beyond the mango salsa, a simple green salad adds freshness and crunch. If you’re looking to skip starchy sides, an avocado mango salad can serve as a more substantial and flavorful alternative to the salsa, adding healthy fats and more texture to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, or asparagus would perfectly complement the grilled chicken, adding nutrients and vibrant colors.
Quinoa or Couscous: For a lighter grain option, a simple quinoa salad or a quick-cooking couscous can be a fantastic, easy-to-prepare accompaniment.

Essential Ingredients for Your Mango Chicken Skewers

This recipe is comprised of three distinct yet harmonizing components: the chicken, the flavorful marinade, and the refreshing mango salsa. For the chicken, I typically prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but chicken thighs are an excellent alternative, offering a richer flavor and often remaining juicier.

Marinade Ingredients: The Heart of the Flavor

Orange Juice: Provides a bright, citrusy base and helps tenderize the chicken.
Garlic: Adds a foundational aromatic depth.
Sriracha: Delivers that signature sweet heat. Adjust to your spice preference.
Lime Juice: Enhances the acidity and tropical notes, balancing the sweetness.
Agave: A natural sweetener that complements the mango and orange beautifully.
Olive Oil: Helps distribute flavors and keeps the chicken moist.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all other flavors.
Cilantro: Fresh herbs add a fragrant, zesty finish to the marinade.

Mango Salsa Ingredients: The Perfect Fresh Topping

Mango: The star of the salsa, providing tropical sweetness and a soft texture.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
Red Onion: Contributes a sharp, piquant flavor that cuts through the sweetness.
Jalapeño: A touch of heat and freshness; remove seeds for less spice.
Cilantro: Essential for its fresh, herbaceous aroma and flavor.
Lime Juice: Brightens the salsa and helps marry the flavors.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all ingredients.

How to Prepare Your Irresistible Mango Chicken Skewers

Creating these delightful Mango Chicken Skewers is straightforward. Here’s a detailed overview of the steps, along with some helpful tips, to ensure perfect results every time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to start by soaking them. Place them in a shallow dish filled with water for at least 15 to 30 minutes. This prevents them from scorching on the hot grill, allowing your chicken to cook perfectly.

Step 2: Craft the Flavorful Marinade

In a blender or food processor, combine all the marinade ingredients: orange juice, garlic, sriracha, lime juice, agave, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cilantro. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined. This ensures an even distribution of all the fantastic flavors.

Once blended, pour approximately half a cup of this vibrant marinade into a separate container and set it aside. This reserved portion will be used later for brushing onto the chicken skewers as they grill, intensifying the flavor and creating a beautiful glaze.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Take the remaining marinade and pour it into a large, resealable storage bag or a non-reactive container. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces to the bag or container. Ensure all chicken pieces are thoroughly coated by stirring or shaking the bag. Place the chicken in the refrigerator to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes. While a quick marinade works, you can extend this up to 2-3 hours for deeper flavor, but avoid marinating longer than 3 hours with citrus, as it can start to break down the chicken’s texture.

Pro Tip: To prevent any potential leaks from making a mess in your refrigerator, place the bag of marinating chicken inside a large bowl. This acts as a safeguard against accidental spills.

Step 4: Assemble the Fresh Mango Salsa

While your chicken is marinating, prepare the estrella of your side dishes – the mango salsa! Begin by peeling and dicing the fresh mango. Then, finely dice the red bell pepper, jalapeño (removing seeds if you prefer less heat), and red onion. In a medium bowl, gently combine all the diced ingredients with the fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix, then cover and set aside in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. This can be made an hour or two ahead for even better taste.

Step 5: Grill Your Chicken Skewers to Perfection

When you’re ready to cook, clean your grill grates thoroughly and preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, prepare it with a light coating of nonstick spray or oil. Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your soaked wooden or metal skewers. Aim for about 4-5 chunks of chicken per skewer, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking.

Place the assembled skewers on the hot grill or grill pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, turning them regularly to create those appealing grill marks and ensure even cooking. During grilling, periodically brush the chicken with the reserved marinade. Continue cooking until the chicken is opaque throughout and reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC), which you can check with a meat thermometer. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.

Serve your juicy Mango Chicken Skewers immediately, generously topped with the fresh mango salsa and accompanied by your favorite side dishes. Enjoy this delicious, vibrant meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

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More Delicious Skewer and Kabob Recipes to Explore

If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and flavor of these mango chicken skewers, you’ll love these other fantastic kabob and skewer recipes:

BBQ Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: A classic flavor combination that’s always a hit.
Agave Cilantro Shrimp Skewers: Light, zesty, and perfect for seafood lovers.
Citrus Salmon Skewers Recipe: Healthy and packed with bright, refreshing flavors.
Chili Rubbed Chicken Skewers with Peppers: For those who crave a smoky, spicy kick.
Shish Tawook Recipe: A traditional Middle Eastern marinated chicken kabob that’s incredibly tender and flavorful.

Mango Chicken Skewers

By: Mariam Ezzeddine

These grilled mango chicken skewers are wonderfully full of flavor and are ready to serve in less than 30 minutes. The grilled chicken kabobs are served with a vibrant and fresh mango salsa for the perfect summer weeknight meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (or equivalent chicken thighs)

MARINADE

1/2 cup orange juice
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 Tbsp Sriracha
4 Tbsp lime juice
1 Tbsp agave
2 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup chopped cilantro

SALSA

1 1/2 cups chopped mango
1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
3 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
2 Tbsp lime juice
1/4 tsp salt
Fill a shallow baking dish with water. Soak wooden skewers for 15 to 30 minutes before use.

Instructions

In a blender or food processor, add all marinade ingredients. Blend until smooth. Reserve 1/2 cup of the marinade for basting during grilling. Add the remaining marinade to a large zip-top bag with the chicken pieces. Seal and shake to ensure the chicken is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2-3 hours.
In a medium bowl, combine all salsa ingredients: chopped mango, red bell pepper, jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Stir gently to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Carefully thread 4 to 5 pieces of marinated chicken onto each soaked skewer.
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning frequently, and brushing with the reserved marinade. Continue grilling until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC).
Remove the cooked skewers from the grill and arrange them on a platter. Top generously with the fresh mango salsa and serve warm.

Notes

If you use wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water before using them on the grill to prevent burning.
Cut the chicken into even pieces so that it cooks evenly and consistently.
Don’t marinate the chicken for longer than 3 hours. The acid from the citrus can start to break down the chicken fibers, potentially making it mushy if left for too long.
The mango salsa can be made ahead of time and kept covered in the fridge for up to 3 days for convenience.

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