Save Juicy Mango Lime Chicken Skewers bring together bright tropical fruit and tangy citrus for one of my favorite ways to serve chicken in warm weather. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable grilled main, with just a hint of heat from chili and a punch of freshness from herbs and lime. Perfect for summer grilling or whenever you are dreaming of a little sunshine on your plate.
Every time I fire up these skewers, I think about the first summer my kids learned how to thread them by hand and insisted on making dinner. The sweet mango and lime made it a hit for their friends too.
Ingredients
- Ripe mango diced: creates a creamy marinade and infuses the chicken with tropical sweetness Look for a deeply golden mango that gives slightly when pressed for best flavor
- Fresh limes both zest and juice: brighten up the marinade and add a burst of acidity Choose limes that feel heavy for their size for more juice
- Olive oil: helps the chicken stay tender and juicy Use extra virgin olive oil for a richer taste
- Honey: balances the tart lime and spicy chili and gives a glossy finish Opt for raw or local honey for flavor depth
- Garlic and fresh ginger: bring savory kick and warmth Choose plump garlic cloves and a firm piece of ginger without wrinkling
- Chili flakes optional: add just the right touch of gentle heat Only use fresh and vibrant chili flakes for best flavor
- Salt and black pepper: balance and boost all other flavors Go for freshly ground black pepper when possible
- Chicken breast or thighs cut into cubes: soaks up the punchy marinade Choose organic or free range chicken for tenderness
- Red bell pepper and red onion: add color and a sweet smoky touch Pick peppers with tight shiny skins and onions that feel firm and heavy
- Another fresh mango cubed: sandwiches bites of tropical sweetness between each savory piece
- Fresh cilantro for garnish: provides herbal brightness Buy with perky leaves and store wrapped in a damp towel in the fridge
- Lime wedges for serving: give every skewer a little finishing zing
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- Combine diced ripe mango lime zest and juice olive oil honey minced garlic grated ginger chili flakes salt and pepper in a blender or food processor Blend until completely smooth This step makes a thick tropical paste that will infuse every bit of chicken with flavor
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place cubed chicken in a large bowl or extra large resealable bag Pour half the marinade all over the chicken Toss well so each piece is well coated Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes two hours is even better The citrus will help tenderize and flavor the meat deeply
- Soak the Skewers:
- If you are using wooden skewers submerge them fully in water for at least twenty minutes This keeps them from burning up on the grill A roasting pan or long dish works well for soaking
- Preheat the Grill:
- Set your grill or grill pan over medium high heat Let it get fully hot This will help the chicken develop deep sear marks and caramelized edges without sticking
- Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread chicken pieces bell pepper chunks red onion pieces and fresh mango cubes onto skewers in an alternating pattern Try to keep the pieces evenly sized for even cooking Bits of mango will caramelize at the edges adding little bursts of sweetness
- Grill and Baste:
- Place skewers on the hot grill Cook for twelve to fifteen minutes turning every few minutes so all sides get nice color As you grill use the reserved half of the marinade to brush over the skewers a couple times This keeps the chicken moist and super flavorful
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of at least one hundred sixty five Fahrenheit and has golden grill marks transfer skewers to a serving platter Sprinkle with chopped cilantro for color and zing Serve hot with extra lime wedges for squeezing over the top
Save No matter how many times I make this recipe I always sneak extra pieces of fresh mango onto my own skewer The smoky caramelized mango juice is the taste I look forward to all year and it always reminds me of family barbecues after swim practice
Storage Tips
Cool cooked skewers completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge Chicken stays fresh for up to three days To reheat grill briefly or use a 350 oven until warmed Mango holds its shape if handled gently You can also freeze raw marinated chicken pieces in a freezer bag for up to three months and thaw overnight before grilling
Ingredient Substitutions
Pineapple or even ripe peach can stand in for the mango if you want a flavor switch If you do not have fresh ginger swap in one half teaspoon dry ginger Tofu can replace chicken for a vegetarian twist Just be sure to use extra firm tofu cut in cubes and pressed dry Bell peppers in orange or yellow also work beautifully
Serving Suggestions
Serve over warm coconut rice with a quick cucumber salad on the side They are also great as party appetizers by making mini skewers Leftover chicken makes a next day taco filling Splash a little reserved marinade dressing on top for extra flavor
Cultural and Seasonal Notes
Tropical fruit marinades are a classic grill technique in Caribbean and Southeast Asian cuisines Mango brings a bold natural tenderizer to chicken thighs in particular For grilling in colder months use a grill pan indoors and consider adding a dash of smoked paprika for that signature outdoor flavor
Save This sunny skewer recipe always brings summer flavors to our table and is sure to wow your guests at the next gathering. Grill a few extra for leftovers - you will be glad you did.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute mango with another fruit?
Yes, pineapple works well as a substitute, offering similar sweetness and tropical notes.
- → What protein alternatives can I use?
Tofu can be used for a vegetarian option, or try shrimp or pork for a different twist.
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours enhances the flavors even more.
- → Can I cook these skewers without a grill?
Absolutely, use a grill pan or broil in the oven, turning to ensure even cooking.
- → What can I serve alongside these skewers?
Coconut rice, fresh green salad, or grilled vegetables pair beautifully with these skewers.