Grilled Mango Chicken: 7-Minute Grill Magic

Grilled Mango Chicken is the sunshine-on-a-plate kind of meal that will make your weeknights feel like a tropical escape—even if you’re just escaping your inbox. Whether you’re trying to shake up your usual chicken routine or impress your family with something fun and flavorful, this recipe delivers. With sweet, juicy mangoes and savory soy sauce working their magic together, this is one of those easy dinners that hits all the right notes: tangy, tender, and totally satisfying.

And let’s be real—if you’ve got picky eaters or you’re just plain tired at 6 p.m. (who isn’t?), this mango chicken is a no-fuss solution that tastes like you spent way more time than you actually did.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Mango Chicken

It’s like summer on your grill—sweet, smoky, and so juicy! But beyond the taste (which is chef’s kiss), here’s why it’s worth adding to your dinner lineup:

  • Quick prep, big payoff – The marinade does the heavy lifting while you relax or tackle your never-ending to-do list.
  • Family-friendly flavors – Even skeptical kids won’t turn down mango-glazed chicken.
  • Perfect for grilling season – Or when you just need a reason to fire up that grill.
  • Meal prep approved – Tastes just as good the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep it simple and tasty, shall we?

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Thighs stay juicy and flavorful on the grill.
  • ½ cup soy sauce – Adds that deep umami richness.
  • 2 ripe mangos – Sweet, tropical, and full of summery vibes.
  • 3 garlic cloves – Always.
  • ½ tsp grated fresh ginger – Just a touch of zing!
  • 2 tbsp water – Helps blend everything together.
  • Fresh cilantro – Optional, but it brings a lovely pop of green and freshness.

How to Make Grilled Mango Chicken

Step 1: Marinate like a boss

Pop your chicken into a large Ziploc bag or baking dish. Meanwhile, blend the soy sauce, peeled and chopped mangoes, garlic, ginger, and water until smooth. Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade, and pour the rest over your chicken. Seal it up, give it a shake, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—or up to 8 if you’re a plan-ahead superstar.

Pro Tip: If you forget to marinate it overnight (because, same), even 2 hours will still give you great flavor!

Step 2: Grill it to perfection

Heat your grill to 400°F. Using tongs, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Grill each piece for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until beautifully charred and fully cooked.

Step 3: Sauce & serve

Once grilled, brush the chicken with the reserved sauce for that glossy, juicy finish. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro if you’re feeling fancy (or trying to impress your in-laws). Serve hot—and prepare for compliments.

Cooking Tips for Foolproof Mango Chicken

  • Use ripe mangoes – They should be slightly soft when pressed. Overripe = mushy marinade, underripe = less sweetness.
  • No grill? No problem! You can cook these in a hot cast iron skillet or bake them in the oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes.
  • Double the batch – This chicken is amazing for leftovers. Wrap it in lettuce, stuff it in tacos, or toss it over rice or salad.

A Little Backstory from My Kitchen

This grilled mango chicken became a summer staple in my house after a backyard BBQ where the kids shockingly didn’t ask for ketchup. My husband declared it “restaurant-worthy,” and I’ll be honest—those words are the holy grail in my kitchen.

Since then, it’s been our go-to when we want something easy but special. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a grill master, even if all you did was press “blend” and flip chicken with a spatula.

Grilled Mango Chicken thighs topped with fresh mango chunks and cilantro on a white plate

FAQs About Mango Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind they cook faster and can dry out quicker. Pound them slightly for even cooking.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or slice it cold for salads.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge. You can also freeze the uncooked chicken in the marinade—just defrost before grilling.

Is the sauce spicy?

Nope! This one’s totally kid-friendly. Want heat? Add a dash of chili flakes or a squeeze of sriracha to the marinade.

Conclusion

Whether you’re grilling for your crew on a lazy Sunday or trying to beat dinner burnout midweek, this grilled mango chicken is your juicy, tropical ticket to flavor town. It’s easy, it’s vibrant, and it brings a little vacation flair right to your dinner table.

Now go ahead—grab those mangoes, fire up the grill, and let the magic happen.

Explore More Delicious Chicken Dishes

If you loved this Grilled Mango Chicken and you’re craving even more bold, vibrant flavors (or you just like to grill as much as I do!), here are a few other must-try recipes that’ll keep your dinner game strong. These handpicked dishes are perfect for shaking up your weekly rotation, and they pair beautifully with the tropical flair of mango chicken:

  1. Try something spicy and creamy with this smoky Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce — it’s a bold combo that’s barbecue-worthy.
  2. If you’re a fan of tropical twists like mango, you’ll love these juicy Pineapple Chicken Kebabs that bring sweet and savory together on a skewer.
  3. For another grilled favorite with international flair, check out the deeply flavorful Portuguese Grilled Chicken — packed with garlic, paprika, and attitude.
  4. Keep those island vibes going with sweet and tangy Grilled Huli Huli Chicken — a Hawaiian-inspired recipe that’s perfect for your next cookout.

Each of these dishes brings something exciting to the table (literally), and they all celebrate the joy of cooking chicken in creative, flavorful ways. Go ahead—bookmark your favorites and start planning your next chicken masterpiece!

P.S. We’d Love to Hear From You! 💬

If you give this Grilled Mango Chicken a try (and I really hope you do!), don’t forget to leave a quick review or comment below. Your feedback not only helps others decide to dive in—it makes my day! Whether it’s a dinner win, a twist you added, or even a grilling blooper, I’d love to hear all about it. Let’s keep the Chicken Magic community deliciously connected! 🧡🍗

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Sliced Grilled Mango Chicken served with grilled mango chunks and fresh cilantro on a white plate

Grilled Mango Chicken


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  • Author: Aneta
  • Total Time: 25 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Juicy, sweet, and savory, this Grilled Mango Chicken is a tropical-inspired dish perfect for weeknights or summer BBQs. Made with a simple mango-soy marinade, it’s bursting with bold flavors and ready in just 30 minutes of cook time!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lb. chicken thighs, boneless and skinless

  • ½ cup soy sauce

  • 2 ripe mangos, peeled and chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves

  • ½ teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

  • 2 tablespoon water (or more as needed)

  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. Place chicken in a large Ziploc bag or baking dish and set aside.

  2. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, mango, garlic, ginger, and water. Blend until smooth.

  3. Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade. Pour the rest over the chicken, seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 8 hours).

  4. Preheat your grill to 400°F.

  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.

  6. Grill for 6–7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.

  7. Brush with reserved marinade and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate overnight.
You can substitute chicken breasts, but adjust cook time accordingly.
No grill? Bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes or pan-sear.
Pairs well with rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American , Tropical

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 320 Kcal
  • Sugar: 13 g
  • Sodium: 820 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 145 mg

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