Grilled Mango and Chicken Skewers

Ingredients

• Wooden skewers (8-10, soaked in water for 30 minutes)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Lime juice (2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed)
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
• Red onion (1 medium, cut into wedges)
• Red bell pepper (1 large, cut into chunks)
• Ripe mango (1 large, peeled and cut into chunks)
• Chicken breast (1 pound, cut into 1-inch cubes)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
• Lime wedges (for serving, optional)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss well to coat. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
3. While the chicken is marinating, soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
5. Thread the marinated chicken, mango chunks, red bell pepper, and red onion onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating between ingredients for a colorful presentation.
6. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the mango and vegetables are slightly charred.
7. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
8. Serve the skewers hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.