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Flavorful Jerk Chicken Skewers with Fiery Mango Habanero Sauce

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These jerk chicken skewers are a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors, paired with a luscious fiery mango habanero sauce. Quick to prepare and ideal for grilling, they bring bold Caribbean flair to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
  • 2 tbsp ground allspice
  • 1 tbsp dried thyme (or 2 tbsp fresh, chopped)
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp nutmeg, freshly grated if possible
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or habaneros for milder heat), minced
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped
  • 1–2 habanero peppers, seeded for less heat if preferred
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp fresh lime juice
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine allspice, thyme, smoked paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped Scotch bonnet peppers, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until sugar dissolves and spices are well distributed (about 5 minutes).
  2. Marinate the chicken: Add chicken chunks to the marinade, toss to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. If short on time, 30 minutes is okay.
  3. Make the mango habanero sauce: In a blender or food processor, puree chopped mango, habanero peppers, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and lime juice until smooth. Adjust sweetness or heat as needed. Chill in fridge (about 10 minutes).
  4. Prepare the skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving space between chunks for even cooking.
  5. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). If using charcoal, wait until coals are glowing and covered with white ash.
  6. Grill the chicken skewers: Cook skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully to avoid flare-ups. Chicken should be charred on edges and reach internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Total cook time about 12-15 minutes.
  7. Serve: Remove skewers from grill, let rest for a few minutes. Drizzle generously with fiery mango habanero sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor. Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning. Watch for flare-ups while grilling. Use chicken thighs for juicier results. Sauce tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. For milder heat, remove seeds from peppers or substitute with jalapeños. Can broil or pan-sear if no grill is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: jerk chicken, chicken skewers, mango habanero sauce, Caribbean recipe, spicy chicken, grilled chicken, easy dinner, summer grilling

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/flavorful-jerk-chicken-skewers-recipe-with-fiery-mango-habanero-sauce-easy/