Delicious Grilled Tropical Chicken Skewers

If you’re looking for a taste of the tropics without leaving your backyard, look no further than this mouthwatering Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken recipe. Picture this: juicy thin-sliced chicken breasts marinated to perfection in a flavorful blend of mango-pineapple salsa, zesty lime juice, and a dash of seasoning. The result? A dish that’s bursting with sweet and savory goodness, ready to transport you to a sunny beachside paradise with every bite.

I first discovered this recipe during a sweltering summer heatwave when the last thing I wanted to do was turn on my oven. Little did I know that this simple yet sensational dish would become a family favorite, requested time and time again. The vibrant colors of the peppers, the sweet tang of the fruit salsa, and the charred perfection of the grilled chicken all come together to create a meal that feels like a vacation on a plate. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the flavors of summer with this irresistible Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy meal perfect for hot weather cooking
• Versatile protein options for varied dietary preferences
• Bright and vibrant tropical flavors that transport you to a vacation vibe
• Make-ahead and leftover-friendly for convenient meal planning

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Grilled Tropical Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Tropical Vacation Vibes: The juicy grilled chicken, sweet mango-pineapple salsa, and colorful peppers create a perfect vacation vibe that transports you to a beachy destination, making it ideal for warm weather dining.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in minutes but tastes like you’ve put in hours of effort, making it a perfect weeknight meal solution.
• Versatile Protein Options: Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu, this recipe can easily adapt to your protein preferences, offering flexibility for various dietary needs.
• Restaurant-Quality Experience: The combination of marinated chicken, vibrant colors, fresh fruit garnishes, and flavorful bell peppers elevates this dish to a restaurant-quality experience right in your backyard.
• Bright and Balanced Flavors: The combination of the sweet tropical fruit, tangy lime juice, and savory grilled chicken creates a well-balanced and flavorful dish that is sure to please a variety of palates.
• Prep-ahead and Leftover Friendly: With make-ahead components and leftover transformations, this recipe is perfect for streamlining cooking on busy evenings and maximizing flavors for a delightful next-day meal.
• Adaptable Spice Level: Whether you prefer a mild flavor or enjoy some heat, this recipe offers adaptability by adjusting the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect Pairings: From coconut rice to grilled pineapple slices and tropical cocktails, this recipe offers suggestions for delicious side dishes and beverages that complement the meal beautifully.

Ingredients for Delicious Grilled Tropical Chicken Skewers

For the Chicken

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ⅓ cup fresh lime juice
• 8 ounces mango-pineapple salsa
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1½ pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)

For the Bell Peppers

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced into ½-inch wide strips
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For Garnishing

• ⅓ cup pineapple tidbits (fresh or thawed frozen)
• 2-4 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• ½ cup mango, diced (fresh or thawed frozen)
• 4 ounces additional mango-pineapple salsa

How to Make Delicious Grilled Tropical Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the chicken

In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine chicken breasts with salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper. Seal the bag, eliminating excess air, and massage gently to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for enhanced flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F) and lightly oil the grill grates using tongs and a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Season the peppers

Place bell pepper strips in a grill basket, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and toss to coat evenly with grill tongs.

Step 4: Grill the chicken and peppers

Take the chicken out of the marinade and dispose of the excess liquid. Place the chicken on one side of the grill and position the pepper-filled grill basket on the opposite side. Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes on the first side with the lid closed. Flip the chicken and grill for another 4-5 minutes with the lid closed until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is cooked through.

Step 5: Cook the peppers

While the chicken is cooking, stir the peppers occasionally with tongs for even cooking. Watch the peppers closely as they may be done before the chicken; remove them when they reach your preferred tenderness and char level.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Place the grilled chicken on a serving platter. Top each chicken breast with more mango-pineapple salsa, diced mango, pineapple tidbits, and fresh cilantro. Serve hot with grilled peppers on the side.

Storage Tips

Once you have cooked and enjoyed your delicious Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, it is essential to store any leftovers properly to maintain their quality. To store the finished dish, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Placing the chicken in the refrigerator promptly helps to keep it safe for consumption and prevent spoilage. When stored correctly, leftover Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken can typically be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, the Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken can be frozen. To freeze, portion the leftovers into individual serving sizes or as a whole meal in airtight containers or freezer bags. Properly stored, the dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy the frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat the thawed chicken in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is heated through. Proper storage and reheating techniques help preserve the flavors and texture of the Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken for delicious meals even on busy days.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian adaptation of this Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken recipe, extra firm tofu can be a great substitute for the chicken. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture and marinate it for at least an hour before grilling. This tofu alternative provides a satisfying protein option with the tropical flavors of the marinade and salsa.

If you prefer a different protein, shrimp can be a delicious substitute for the chicken. Marinate the shrimp for a shorter time, around 15 minutes, and grill for 2-3 minutes per side. Pork tenderloin is another great option, sliced into medallions and grilled for 3-4 minutes per side after marinating. These variations offer versatility to the recipe while maintaining the vibrant flavors of the tropical theme.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and colorful presentation, serve the Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken on a platter garnished with extra mango and pineapple tidbits, along with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color. You can also serve it over a bed of coconut rice to enhance the tropical theme and soak up the flavorful juices from the chicken and salsa. For a refreshing touch, consider pairing the dish with grilled pineapple slices on the side to complement the flavors and create a cohesive island-inspired meal.

To elevate the dining experience further, serve the Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken with a pitcher of pineapple mango sangria or coconut mojitos for a complete vacation experience. The fruity cocktails will enhance the tropical vibes and create a festive atmosphere, perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a special meal with your family. Cheers to a delicious and refreshing summer dining experience that transports you to a beachy paradise right in your backyard!

FAQs for Delicious Grilled Tropical Chicken Skewers

Can I use a different type of fruit salsa instead of mango-pineapple?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fruit salsas like peach, papaya, or even a tropical fruit blend. The key is to choose a salsa that complements the flavors of the chicken and marinade.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for vegetarians by substituting the chicken with extra firm tofu. Press the tofu to remove excess water, marinate it for at least an hour, then grill it to achieve a delicious tropical flavor.

Can I marinate the chicken longer than 30 minutes?

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will allow the flavors to penetrate even deeper, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Just be mindful not to marinate for too long as the lime juice can break down the chicken if left for too many hours.

What’s the best way to store any leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can repurpose the grilled chicken and peppers for wraps, salads, or even quesadillas the next day to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of the tropics that brings a touch of vacation to your weeknight dinner table. The vibrant flavors of juicy chicken, sweet mango, and zesty lime combine to create a meal that feels like a special treat without the fuss. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or a crowd-pleasing dish for entertaining, this recipe has you covered.

So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and savor each delicious bite of this Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken. Let the sweet and savory flavors transport you to a sunny beach paradise, even if you’re just in your backyard. Embrace the simplicity and joy that comes from sharing a meal that is both comforting and exciting. With this recipe in your repertoire, every day can feel like a mini vacation – no plane ticket required. Enjoy the flavors, enjoy the moment, and most importantly, enjoy the company around your table.

Delicious Grilled Tropical Chicken Skewers

“Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with juicy Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, a vacation-worthy meal that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for summer gatherings.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time5 Minutes

Cook Time10 Minutes

Total Time15 Minutes

CuisineAmerican Fusion

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ⅓ cup fresh lime juice
• 8 ounces mango-pineapple salsa
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1½ pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)

For the Bell Peppers

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced into ½-inch wide strips
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For Garnishing

• ⅓ cup pineapple tidbits (fresh or thawed frozen)
• 2-4 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• ½ cup mango, diced (fresh or thawed frozen)
• 4 ounces additional mango-pineapple salsa

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine chicken breasts with salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper. Seal the bag, eliminating excess air, and massage gently to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
2. Prepare the grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F) and lightly oil the grill grates using tongs and a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.
3. Season the peppers: Place bell pepper strips in a grill basket, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and toss to coat evenly with grill tongs.
4. Grill the chicken and peppers: Take the chicken out of the marinade and dispose of the excess liquid. Place the chicken on one side of the grill and position the pepper-filled grill basket on the opposite side. Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes on the first side with the lid closed. Flip the chicken and grill for another 4-5 minutes with the lid closed until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is cooked through.
5. Cook the peppers: While the chicken is cooking, stir the peppers occasionally with tongs for even cooking. Watch the peppers closely as they may be done before the chicken; remove them when they reach your preferred tenderness and char level.
6. Garnish and serve: Place the grilled chicken on a serving platter. Top each chicken breast with more mango-pineapple salsa, diced mango, pineapple tidbits, and fresh cilantro. Serve hot with grilled peppers on the side.