Let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer dish: spicy honey garlic chicken skewers with mango salsa! Seriously, this dish is a flavor explosion that brings together the sweet, sticky goodness of honey, the kick of garlic, and just the right amount of heat from the red pepper flakes. Each bite transports me to a sunny backyard barbecue, where the aroma of grilled chicken fills the air. My friends always rave about it, and I love how the fresh mango salsa adds a burst of brightness and a touch of tropical flair. Trust me, once you try these skewers, they’ll become your go-to for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or just when you want a taste of summer any time of year. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 ripe mango, diced into small pieces
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
How to Prepare Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers with Mango Salsa
Marinating the Chicken
First things first, let’s get that chicken marinated! In a medium bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until it’s all nicely blended. Once you’ve got that delicious marinade ready, toss in the 1 lb of cubed chicken breast. Make sure each piece is coated well—this is where all the flavor comes from! Cover the bowl and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Seriously, don’t rush this step; the longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs. If you have time, marinate it in the fridge for a couple of hours or even overnight for an extra kick.
Preparing the Mango Salsa
While the chicken is soaking up all that goodness, let’s whip up the mango salsa! In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, finely chopped red onion, and diced bell pepper. Squeeze in the juice of one lime and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together. Taste it! If you want more zing, add a little more lime juice or salt. This salsa is all about fresh, vibrant flavors, so feel free to get creative—add some chopped cilantro or a dash of jalapeño for an extra kick!
Assembling and Grilling the Skewers
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Take your marinated chicken and thread the pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning—trust me, no one wants charred skewers! Preheat your grill to medium heat, then place the skewers on it. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has those beautiful grill marks. The aroma will be irresistible, and soon enough, you’ll be ready to plate up and enjoy!
Tips for Success
To take your spicy honey garlic chicken skewers to the next level, here are some of my go-to tips! First, don’t be shy with the marinade—let that chicken soak up every bit of flavor. If you like things spicy, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick. When grilling, keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking; it can dry out quickly! If you prefer a smokier flavor, throw a few wood chips on the grill for that authentic barbecue taste. And if you’re looking for a twist, try substituting the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Lastly, always serve your skewers immediately after grilling to enjoy them at their juiciest and most flavorful!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one skewer of spicy honey garlic chicken with mango salsa, just to give you an idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 28g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on typical ingredients and can vary depending on specific brands or preparation methods. It’s always a good idea to check the labels of the ingredients you use if you’re watching your intake closely!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of meat for the skewers?
Absolutely! While I love using chicken for these spicy honey garlic skewers, you can easily substitute it with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, especially for shrimp, which cooks much faster!
How can I make the mango salsa spicier?
If you’re looking to heat things up, try adding some finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the mango salsa. You can also increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the chicken marinade for an extra kick!
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, definitely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just remember to keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop even more!
What should I serve with the spicy honey garlic chicken skewers?
These skewers are fantastic on their own, but I love serving them with a side of rice or quinoa to soak up all the delicious juices. A fresh green salad or grilled veggies are great options, too, adding a nice balance to the meal!
Can I make these skewers in the oven instead of on the grill?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These spicy honey garlic chicken skewers come together in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of sweet honey, zesty garlic, and fresh mango salsa creates a vibrant explosion of flavors that’ll have your taste buds dancing!
- Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and loaded with fresh fruits and veggies, this dish is a nutritious choice that’s gluten-free.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it versatile for any palate.
- Perfect for Grilling: Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just enjoying a sunny day, these skewers are a fun way to savor outdoor cooking.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your spicy honey garlic chicken skewers with mango salsa, the options are endless! Here are some of my favorite pairings that really enhance the whole meal experience:
- Fluffy Rice or Quinoa: A side of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa is perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the skewers. You can even mix in some chopped cilantro or lime zest for added flavor!
- Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the mango salsa beautifully. It adds a refreshing crunch that balances the dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Toss some bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus on the grill alongside your skewers. The charred veggies add a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and spicy chicken.
- Flatbreads: Serve the skewers with warm pita or naan bread for a fun, hand-held meal. You can even create little wraps with the chicken and mango salsa for a tasty twist!
- Chilled Beverages: Don’t forget to quench your thirst! A refreshing iced tea or a fruity mocktail works wonders with this dish. It’s all about that ultimate summer vibe!
Mix and match these sides based on your cravings and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To keep your spicy honey garlic chicken skewers with mango salsa tasting great, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days, making them perfect for meal prep or quick lunches. Just make sure the chicken has cooled down before sealing it up to avoid any moisture buildup.
When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty skewers again, reheating them is a breeze! You can pop them in the microwave for a quick fix—just cover them to keep the moisture in and heat for about 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want that grilled flavor back, heat up a skillet or grill pan over medium heat and give them a quick sear for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally. This will help revive that delicious char and keep the chicken juicy!
As for the mango salsa, it’s best to enjoy it fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it separately in the fridge for 1-2 days. Just stir it well before serving again, and if it needs a little brightness, a squeeze of fresh lime juice can do wonders!
Print
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers with Mango Salsa Delight
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious dish featuring spicy honey garlic chicken skewers paired with fresh mango salsa.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Add chicken cubes to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
- While chicken marinates, prepare the mango salsa by combining mango, red onion, bell pepper, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill skewers over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
- Serve the skewers with mango salsa on the side.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes for desired spiciness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer with salsa
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: spicy honey garlic chicken skewers, mango salsa, grilled chicken, summer recipe
