Description
These Mango Habanero Chicken Skewers feature juicy marinated chicken pieces infused with ripe mango, fiery habanero, garlic, lime, and honey — grilled or baked to sweet‑heat perfection and ideal for parties or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5‑inch pieces
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 2 Tbsp habanero pepper, minced (adjust to taste)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp lime juice
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Prepare the marinade by blending together mango, habanero, garlic, olive oil, lime juice, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl or zip‑top bag and pour the marinade over them. Mix thoroughly so each piece is coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for even cooking.
- Choose your cooking method: (a) Grill: Preheat grill to medium‑high and cook skewers 4‑5 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C). (b) Oven: Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C), place skewers on a lined baking sheet, and bake 15‑20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Serve hot with lime wedges, fresh cilantro, or a side of rice or salad.
Notes
- To reduce heat, use fewer habanero peppers or remove seeds before mincing. ([turn0search2])
- If craving extra sweetness, increase the honey or add more mango into the marinade.
- Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs—just watch cooking time to avoid drying them out.
- If baking indoor, broil the final minute for a crisp‑char effect similar to grilling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15‑20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grill or Oven Roast
- Cuisine: American / Tropical Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ≈ 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: ≈ 290
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
