Tropical Mango Chicken Kabobs: A Flavor Fiesta on a Skewer!

Summer is synonymous with grilling, and what better way to celebrate the season than with vibrant, flavorful Mango Chicken Kabobs? This recipe perfectly balances sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for backyard barbecues, picnics, or even a simple weeknight dinner. Tender chicken marinated in a tangy blend of tropical flavors, interspersed with juicy mango chunks and colorful bell peppers, creates a delightful culinary experience. These kabobs are not only incredibly delicious but also visually appealing, adding a touch of sunshine to any table. Get ready to embark on a flavor journey with this easy-to-follow recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Mango Chicken Kabobs

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet mango, savory chicken, and tangy marinade is simply irresistible. Each bite is a burst of tropical sunshine.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginner cooks. The marinade comes together quickly, and assembling the kabobs is a breeze.
• Versatile: You can customize these kabobs to your liking by adding different vegetables, adjusting the spice level, or using different types of fruit.
• Healthy and Delicious: Packed with lean protein, vitamins, and antioxidants, these kabobs are a healthy and guilt-free way to enjoy a flavorful meal.
• Perfect for Grilling: The kabobs cook beautifully on the grill, imparting a smoky char that enhances the overall flavor.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the mango, chicken, and vegetables make these kabobs visually appealing and perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delectable Mango Chicken Kabobs:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Breasts: 1.5 pounds, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. Using chicken breasts ensures a lean and tender result. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
• Mango: 1 large ripe mango, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes. Choose a mango that is firm but yields slightly to gentle pressure. Avoid mangoes that are overly soft or have bruises.
• Bell Peppers: 1 red bell pepper, 1 yellow bell pepper, and 1 orange bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces. Using a variety of colors not only adds visual appeal but also provides a range of vitamins and nutrients. You can substitute with green bell peppers if desired, but they have a slightly more bitter taste.
• Red Onion: 1/2 red onion, cut into 1-inch wedges. Red onion adds a slightly sweet and pungent flavor that complements the other ingredients. You can substitute with yellow or white onion if preferred.
• Wooden or Metal Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

For the Mango Marinade:

• Mango Puree: 1/2 cup (made from approximately 1 ripe mango). You can either blend a ripe mango until smooth or use store-bought mango puree. Ensure that the puree is unsweetened.
• Lime Juice: 1/4 cup, freshly squeezed. Freshly squeezed lime juice provides a bright and tangy flavor that is essential for the marinade. Bottled lime juice can be used as a substitute, but the flavor may not be as vibrant.
• Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons, low sodium. Low-sodium soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor to the marinade. Regular soy sauce can be used, but you may want to reduce the amount to avoid the marinade being too salty.
• Honey: 2 tablespoons. Honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the lime juice and the saltiness of the soy sauce. You can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar if desired.
• Ginger: 1 tablespoon, freshly grated. Freshly grated ginger adds a warm and spicy flavor to the marinade. Ground ginger can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will be less pronounced.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Minced garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the marinade. Garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will be less intense.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (or more, to taste). Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to the marinade. Adjust the amount to your liking, depending on your spice preference. Omit if you prefer a mild flavor.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil helps to emulsify the marinade and adds moisture to the chicken.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season the marinade with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s get started on making these delicious Mango Chicken Kabobs. Follow these simple steps for a guaranteed success:

1. Prepare the Mango Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mango puree, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure that all the ingredients are well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the cubed chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mango marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all the pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will become. Do not marinate for longer than 4 hours, as the acidity of the lime juice can start to break down the chicken.
3. Prepare the Vegetables and Mango: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the bell peppers, red onion, and mango by cutting them into 1-inch pieces. Keep the vegetables and mango separate until ready to assemble the kabobs.
4. Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the marinated chicken, mango chunks, bell pepper pieces, and red onion wedges onto the skewers. Alternate the ingredients to create a colorful and visually appealing pattern. Try to avoid overcrowding the skewers, as this can prevent the ingredients from cooking evenly. Aim for about 5-6 pieces of chicken per skewer.
5. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the kabobs from sticking.
6. Grill the Kabobs: Place the assembled kabobs on the preheated grill. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.
7. Rest and Serve: Once the kabobs are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve the Mango Chicken Kabobs hot off the grill with your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfect Mango Chicken Kabobs

Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your Mango Chicken Kabobs turn out perfectly every time:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients you use will directly impact the flavor of the kabobs. Choose fresh, ripe mangoes and high-quality chicken breasts for the best results.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Overcrowding the skewers can prevent the ingredients from cooking evenly. Leave a small space between each piece to allow for proper heat circulation.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. This will also help to keep the skewers from drying out and splitting.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that the chicken is cooked through. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to check the internal temperature.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink inside.
• Grill the Kabobs over Medium-High Heat: Grilling the kabobs over medium-high heat will allow them to cook quickly and evenly, while also giving them a nice char.
• Turn the Kabobs Frequently: Turning the kabobs frequently will help to prevent them from sticking to the grill and ensure that they cook evenly on all sides.
• Let the Kabobs Rest Before Serving: Letting the kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Mango Chicken Kabob recipe is that it’s easily customizable. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

• Other Fruits: Substitute the mango with pineapple, peaches, or nectarines for a different fruity twist.
• Different Vegetables: Add other vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to the skewers for added flavor and nutrients.
• Spicier Marinade: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicier kick.
• Herbaceous Marinade: Add fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or mint to the marinade for a more herbaceous flavor.
• Coconut Milk: Substitute some of the mango puree with coconut milk for a creamier and richer marinade.
• Chicken Thighs: Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer and more flavorful kabob. Keep in mind that chicken thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time.
• Shrimp Kabobs: Substitute the chicken with large shrimp for a delicious seafood option. Reduce the grilling time as shrimp cooks faster than chicken.
• Tofu Kabobs: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu that has been pressed to remove excess water. Cut the tofu into cubes and marinate it in the same mango marinade.

Serving Suggestions

Mango Chicken Kabobs are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions to complete your meal:

• Rice: Serve the kabobs over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or coconut rice. This is a classic and satisfying pairing.
• Quinoa: For a healthier option, serve the kabobs with quinoa, which is a complete protein and packed with nutrients.
• Salad: A fresh and vibrant salad is a great accompaniment to the kabobs. Try a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette or a mango salsa salad.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grill some extra vegetables like asparagus, corn on the cob, or zucchini to serve alongside the kabobs.
• Flatbread: Serve the kabobs with warm flatbread or pita bread for dipping in the delicious mango marinade.
• Black Beans and Rice: A classic Caribbean side dish that pairs perfectly with the tropical flavors of the kabobs.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds a cool and refreshing contrast to the grilled kabobs.
• Avocado Crema: Drizzle the kabobs with a creamy avocado crema for added richness and flavor.

Make-Ahead Instructions

These Mango Chicken Kabobs can be prepared ahead of time, making them a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining. Here’s how to make them ahead:

• Marinate the Chicken: The chicken can be marinated for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. Do not marinate for longer than 4 hours, as the acidity of the lime juice can start to break down the chicken.
• Assemble the Kabobs: The kabobs can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. Add bell peppers just before grilling, since they dry easily.
• Prepare the Mango Marinade: The mango marinade can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Storage Instructions

Leftover Mango Chicken Kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave, oven, or on the grill until heated through.

Recipe Summary

This Mango Chicken Kabob recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a taste of the tropics. With its balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The recipe is easy to follow, customizable, and perfect for grilling season. So, fire up the grill and get ready to savor the flavors of summer with these delicious Mango Chicken Kabobs!

Mango Chicken Kabobs Recipe

Yields:

About 6-8 kabobs

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cook Time:

10-12 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large ripe mango, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 orange bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ red onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
• Wooden or metal skewers

Mango Marinade:

• ½ cup mango puree
• ¼ cup lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mango puree, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the cubed chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mango marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
3. Thread the marinated chicken, mango chunks, bell pepper pieces, and red onion wedges onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled.
5. Place the assembled kabobs on the preheated grill. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information (per kabob, estimate):

• Calories: Approximately 250-300
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Fat: 8-12 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams

Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Enjoy!

We hope you enjoy this delicious and easy Mango Chicken Kabob recipe! Let us know in the comments below if you tried it and what you thought. Happy grilling!