Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun dip below the horizon, the sizzling sound of chicken meeting a hot grill fills the air with anticipation. This Grilled Mango Lime Chicken brings a tropical twist to your summer cookouts, guaranteed to transport your taste buds to your favorite beach getaway. Marinated in a sweet and spicy mango lime concoction, it’s a delightful fusion that stays juicy and tender while caramelizing to perfection on the grill. What I love most is how simple this recipe is to whip up—perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next BBQ. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with fresh sides or a vibrant salad. Ready to take your grilling game to the next level? Let’s dive into this tasty adventure! Why is Grilled Mango Lime Chicken a Must-Try? Tropical Escape: The vibrant flavors of mango and lime create a sweet and tangy marinade that transports you to a summer paradise with every bite. Effortlessly Delicious: With just a few ingredients, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for seasoned chefs—perfect for any home cook! Time-Saving: Marinade chicken while you prepare your sides, and in under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal, just like with my Poblano Chicken Tacos for busy weeknights! Crowd-Pleaser: Hosting friends? This dish is sure to be the star of your BBQ—a colorful and flavorful option that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Versatile Pairing: Serve it with sides like a zingy Thai Cucumber Salad or a fresh Hawaiian Slaw to balance the sweetness, enhancing your culinary experience. Grilled Mango Lime Chicken Ingredients For the Marinade Chicken Thighs – Provides a juicy and tender base. Use boneless and skinless for easier grilling. Mango (cubed) – Adds sweetness and tropical flavor. Use frozen mango if fresh isn’t available. Lime Juice – Provides tanginess and acidity to balance flavors. Use fresh limes for the best taste. Canola Oil – Helps in marinating and grilling, creating a non-stick surface. Can substitute with olive oil. Fish Sauce – Adds depth and umami. Soy sauce can be used as a vegetarian alternative. Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and aids caramelization. White sugar or honey can be used as substitutes. Sriracha – Adds heat and spice. Adjust to taste or use a milder sauce for less heat. Garlic (minced) – Enhances flavor and aroma. Shallots can be a unique substitute. Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor. Regular salt can be substituted, but adjust the amount. For Serving Fresh Cilantro – Used as a finishing garnish. Omit if not a fan or use parsley instead. Lime (halved for grilling) – Adds smoky citrus flavor when grilled for serving. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Mango Lime Chicken Step 1: Prepare Marinade In a blender, combine the cubed mango, lime juice, fish sauce, canola oil, brown sugar, Sriracha, minced garlic, and kosher salt. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, which should take about 1 minute. This sweet and spicy mixture will elevate your Grilled Mango Lime Chicken, so set it aside for marinating the chicken. Step 2: Marinate Chicken Take the chicken thighs and place them into a large resealable Ziploc bag. Pour the vibrant mango lime marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and massage it gently. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but for best results, let it marinate overnight to fully infuse the flavors. Step 3: Preheat Grill About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for around 350°F. This temperature is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and caramelization on the chicken. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking when you lay down your marinated chicken. Step 4: Grill Chicken Once the grill is hot, carefully remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off, reserving the marinade for later. Place the chicken thighs on the grill, cooking for about 10 minutes on one side. When you start to see nice grill marks, flip the chicken over, spooning some reserved marinade on top for added flavor. Grill for another 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring a juicy finish. Step 5: Simmer Marinade While the chicken is grilling, pour the reserved marinade into a saucepan and add about 1/4 cup of water. Heat over medium-high heat until it begins to boil, then reduce it to a simmer for at least 5 minutes. This will ensure the marinade is safe to serve and enhances its rich flavors for drizzling over your finished Grilled Mango Lime Chicken. Step 6: Grill Limes With about 5 minutes left on the chicken, slice the limes in half and place them cut side down on the grill. Grill until caramelized, approximately 3-4 minutes. This step not only adds a smoky citrus flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation alongside your chicken. Step 7: Serve Once the chicken is perfectly grilled, plate it beautifully and drizzle with the simmered mango sauce. Garnish with the grilled lime halves and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor. Your Grilled Mango Lime Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed, celebrating the sweet and spicy twist that summer grilling is all about! Expert Tips for Grilled Mango Lime Chicken Maximize Marinade Flavor: Ensure the chicken is fully coated in marinade by massaging it into the meat. This step is key for achieving maximum flavor infusion in your Grilled Mango Lime Chicken. Check Doneness Properly: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This prevents undercooking while assuring juicy, tender meat. Don’t Skip the Simmer: Always simmer the reserved marinade before serving. This step eliminates any food safety concerns and intensifies the rich flavors, making your dish even more delicious. Grill Temperature Matters: Preheating the grill to medium heat (about 350°F) allows for perfect caramelization. Too hot can lead to burning, while too low may result in dryness. Fresh Ingredients Shine: Opt for fresh lime juice and ripe mango for the marinade; their natural flavors are irreplaceable and will elevate your Grilled Mango Lime Chicken to new heights. What to Serve with Grilled Mango Lime Chicken? Elevate your summer cookout with delicious sides that balance the sweet and spicy vibes of your grilled chicken. Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors, providing a cooling effect with every bite. The crisp cucumbers and zesty dressing create a perfect counterpoint to the warm spices. Hawaiian Slaw: This tropical-inspired slaw adds a vibrant color and tangy sweetness, enhancing the overall BBQ experience. Its soft texture and crunchy elements play beautifully with the juicy chicken. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and buttery, corn is a BBQ staple that pairs wonderfully with the tropical notes of the chicken. Try squeezing lime over the top for an extra zesty kick! Quinoa Salad with Mango: Packed with protein and fresh mango, this dish mimics the flavors of your main course. The chewy quinoa and juicy fruit create a delicious harmony on your plate. Chili Lime Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fries are seasoned with zesty flavors that echo the marinade. They add a pleasantly sweet contrast to the spicy chicken. Pineapple Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice infused with coconut milk and topped with fresh pineapple chunks offers a delightful tropical pairing. It’s a comforting side that enhances the summer theme of your meal. Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink that keeps the focus on the main flavors of your meal while quenching your thirst. Add a sprig of mint for an aromatic touch. Coconut Sorbet: Finish your meal with this light and refreshing dessert. Its creaminess and tropical taste whisk you away to a beach paradise, completing your culinary journey. Grilled Mango Lime Chicken Variations & Substitutions Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your Grilled Mango Lime Chicken even more your own! Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless breasts for a leaner option that still absorbs all that flavor. Vegan Delight: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or marinated portobello mushrooms for a delicious plant-based treat. This variation still captures the sweet and spicy encounter everyone loves, making it perfect for vegans. Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños into the marinade for those who crave a little extra heat. You can also serve the grilled chicken with a side of spicy salsa to elevate the flavor even further. Fruity Twist: Add diced pineapple or peaches to the marinade for a tropical explosion. These fruits pair surprisingly well with the mango and lime, enhancing the sweetness of the dish. Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like basil or mint instead of cilantro to give the dish a unique herbal note. Their fresh flavors can elevate the tropical vibe even more. Citrus Variety: Substitute lime juice with lemon or orange juice for a different citrus flavor that brings a refreshing touch to your marinade. Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder into the marinade for a smoky undertone that adds depth to your grilling. It’s a fun way to amp up the flavor profile! Marinade-Free Version: For a quick weeknight meal, skip the marinating process and simply brush the chicken with the marinade before grilling. It’s a time-saving trick without sacrificing too much flavor! If you’re looking for more flavor-packed dishes to try, consider serving your grilled chicken alongside my vibrant Pesto Chicken Broccoli or some scrumptious Popcorn Chicken Snack for an amazing feast. Your taste buds will thank you! Make Ahead Options Grilled Mango Lime Chicken is a fantastic option for meal prep that can save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate for a deliciously succulent result. Simply prepare the marinade and coat the chicken as instructed, then refrigerate it in a sealed bag. Additionally, you can make the mango sauce at the same time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to grill, just preheat the grill and cook the marinated chicken, finishing it off with your freshly simmered sauce for a meal that tastes just as vibrant and fresh as if it were made in the moment! How to Store and Freeze Grilled Mango Lime Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Grilled Mango Lime Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its juicy texture and flavorful marinade. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to squeeze out excess air to avoid freezer burn. Reheating: To reheat, grill or warm the chicken in the oven until heated through. This ensures it retains its juicy qualities without drying out. Marinade Storage: If you have leftover marinade, refrigerate and use within 2 days; never reuse if it’s been in contact with raw chicken. Grilled Mango Lime Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of chicken works best for this recipe? I highly recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicy and tender result. They hold up well to grilling without drying out. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but be mindful to monitor their cooking time. How should I store leftover grilled chicken? Store any leftover Grilled Mango Lime Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, grill or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This will help maintain its moist texture and flavorful marinade. Can I freeze grilled chicken? Absolutely! You can freeze your Grilled Mango Lime Chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the grill or in the oven. What should I look for when selecting ripe mangoes for the marinade? Choose mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and fragrant at the stem. If you see areas with dark spots all over, it’s best to avoid those. A perfectly ripe mango will balance sweetness and slight tartness, enhancing the flavor of your marinade beautifully. Can I adjust the spiciness of the marinade? Very! If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of Sriracha or substitute with a milder hot sauce to suit your taste. Conversely, for an extra kick, feel free to add more heat by tossing in some fresh jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mix! Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe? Yes, for a delightful veggie twist, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms. Marinate them in the same sweet and spicy mango lime marinade, allowing the flavors to seep in, and then grill until nicely charred for a truly delicious option. Grilled Mango Lime Chicken with a Sweet Spicy Twist This Grilled Mango Lime Chicken, marinated in a fruity concoction, is a must-try for summer cookouts and guaranteed to impress. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsMarinating Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: BBQ, TropicalCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Marinade1 pound Chicken Thighs Use boneless and skinless for easier grilling.1 cup Mango (cubed) Use frozen mango if fresh isn’t available.1/4 cup Lime Juice Use fresh limes for the best taste.2 tablespoons Canola Oil Can substitute with olive oil.1 tablespoon Fish Sauce Soy sauce can be used as a vegetarian alternative.2 tablespoons Brown Sugar White sugar or honey can be used as substitutes.1 tablespoon Sriracha Adjust to taste or use a milder sauce for less heat.2 cloves Garlic (minced) Shallots can be a unique substitute.1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Regular salt can be substituted, but adjust the amount.For Serving1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Omit if not a fan or use parsley instead.2 whole Lime (halved for grilling) Equipment BlenderGrillsaucepan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilled Mango Lime ChickenIn a blender, combine the cubed mango, lime juice, fish sauce, canola oil, brown sugar, Sriracha, minced garlic, and kosher salt. Blend until smooth.Take the chicken thighs and place them in a large resealable Ziploc bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F) about 15 minutes before grilling.Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Grill the chicken thighs for about 10 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 10 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.While the chicken is grilling, pour the reserved marinade into a saucepan, add 1/4 cup water, and simmer for at least 5 minutes.About 5 minutes before the chicken is done, grill the lime halves cut side down until caramelized, approximately 3-4 minutes.Plate the grilled chicken, drizzle with the simmered mango sauce, garnish with grilled lime halves and fresh cilantro. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesMaximize flavor by ensuring chicken is fully coated in marinade. Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure doneness. Simmer reserved marinade before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
