These Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers with Mango Salsa are the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Juicy chicken chunks are marinated in a zesty honey garlic sauce, grilled to perfection, and served with a refreshing mango salsa that brightens up every bite. Whether youโre hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick and flavorful dinner, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- The marinade combines sweet and spicy flavors for a perfect balance.
- The mango salsa adds a refreshing tropical twist.
- Ideal for grilling season or a quick weeknight meal.
- Easily customizable to suit your spice tolerance.
- Simple yet impressive, making it great for entertaining or family meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: Youโll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken Skewers:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Honey
- Soy sauce
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh lime juice
- Sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- Olive oil
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Mango Salsa:
- Fresh mangoes, diced
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Jalapeรฑo, minced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime juice
- Salt
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, lime juice, sriracha, and olive oil.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the Grill: If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Make the Mango Salsa: In a bowl, combine diced mangoes, red onion, jalapeรฑo, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix well and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Plate the skewers and top with the mango salsa. Enjoy immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Variations
- Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or pork.
- Heat Level: Adjust the spice by increasing or reducing the sriracha or jalapeรฑo.
- Fruit Salsa: Substitute mango with pineapple or peaches for a different tropical flavor.
- Cooking Method: Use a stovetop grill pan or broil the skewers in the oven if you donโt have a grill.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the mango salsa separate for best results.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken skewers in a preheated oven at 350ยฐF for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid reheating the mango salsa, as itโs best served fresh.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the mango salsa a day in advance. Grill the skewers just before serving.
2. What can I serve with these skewers?
These skewers pair well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
3. Can I use frozen mango for the salsa?
Fresh mango is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but thawed frozen mango can work in a pinch.
4. How can I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken.
5. Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, bake them at 400ยฐF for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
6. Is there a substitute for cilantro in the salsa?
You can use parsley or leave it out if youโre not a fan of cilantro.
7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF.
8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free.
9. What type of mango is best for the salsa?
Choose ripe, firm mangoes for the best flavor and texture.
10. Can I make this less sweet?
Reduce the honey in the marinade or add more lime juice to balance the sweetness.
Conclusion
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers with Mango Salsa is a recipe that brings bold flavors and vibrant colors to your table. Whether youโre grilling for a summer party or simply craving a flavorful meal, this dish delivers on all fronts. Try it today and savor the delicious blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy goodness!
PrintSpicy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers with Mango Salsa
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Fusion, Tropical
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These juicy chicken skewers are marinated in a flavorful blend of honey, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection. Paired with a refreshing mango salsa, they are a sweet, spicy, and tangy delight perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Juice of 1 lime
- Bamboo or metal skewers (soaked in water if bamboo)
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeรฑo, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, Sriracha, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and lime juice. Stir until combined. - Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1-2 hours. - Prepare the Mango Salsa:
In a large bowl, combine diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeรฑo (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Toss gently and set aside. - Assemble the Skewers:
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. - Grill the Skewers:
Grill the chicken skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly charred on the edges. - Serve:
Transfer the skewers to a serving platter. Top with a spoonful of mango salsa or serve the salsa on the side.
Notes
- For extra heat, add red chili flakes or extra Sriracha to the marinade.
- You can substitute pineapple for mango in the salsa for a tropical twist.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
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