Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers with Mango Salsa

Spicy honey garlic chicken skewers with mango salsa are a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines sweet, spicy, and savory elements. Perfect for grilling or oven-baking, these skewers feature juicy, marinated chicken paired with a fresh and tangy mango salsa. Ideal for summer cookouts, casual dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and Balanced Flavor: The spicy honey garlic marinade contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tangy mango salsa.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Grill or bake the skewers to suit your preference.
• Light and Fresh: A great option for a flavorful yet healthy meal.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or salsa ingredients to suit your taste.
• Great for Sharing: Perfect for parties, BBQs, or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Skewers:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
• Honey
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Garlic, minced
• Sriracha or chili paste (adjust to taste)
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Mango Salsa:

• Fresh mango, diced
• Red bell pepper, diced
• Red onion, finely chopped
• Jalapeño, minced (optional, for spice)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime juice
• Salt

Directions

For the Chicken Skewers:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sriracha, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
   • Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Cook the Skewers:
   • Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
   • Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes for a charred finish, if desired.

For the Mango Salsa:

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, combine diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and chopped cilantro.
   • Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and season with a pinch of salt. Toss gently to combine.
2. Chill:
   • Refrigerate the salsa until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve:

• Arrange the skewers on a platter and serve with the chilled mango salsa on the side or spooned over the chicken.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Marinate Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Vegetable Skewers: Add veggies like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the skewers.
• Pineapple Salsa: Swap mango for pineapple or use a combination of both.
• Less Spicy: Reduce or omit the sriracha for a milder flavor.
• Coconut Rice: Serve the skewers with a side of coconut rice for a tropical touch.
• Herby Twist: Add chopped mint or basil to the mango salsa for a refreshing twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken and salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken skewers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Serve the salsa chilled or at room temperature.
• Freezing: Freeze the marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

FAQs

Can I use other proteins?

Yes, shrimp, pork, or tofu are great alternatives to chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken.

Can I make the salsa ahead of time?

Yes, the salsa can be prepared up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until serving.

Can I use frozen mango?

Yes, thaw the mango and pat it dry before dicing to avoid excess liquid.

What can I serve with these skewers?

Serve with rice, quinoa, salad, or grilled veggies for a complete meal.

How do I make the marinade thicker for basting?

Reduce the marinade in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens slightly, then brush it onto the skewers while cooking.

Can I bake the chicken without skewers?

Yes, bake the chicken pieces on a lined baking sheet, tossing halfway through for even cooking.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Increase or decrease the amount of sriracha to suit your spice preference.

Can I use bottled lime juice for the salsa?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Spicy honey garlic chicken skewers with mango salsa are a deliciously vibrant dish that brings together smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. Easy to prepare and packed with bold tastes, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling for a summer barbecue or baking for a cozy dinner, these skewers with refreshing mango salsa will steal the show.

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