Name: Grilled Shrimp & Mango Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lb. jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails on; 1 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for mango; 1/4 cup store-bought mild jerk sauce; 1/4 cup store-bought mango chutney; 2 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp. vinegar-based BBQ sauce; 1 large mango, peeled, cut into 1" pieces; 3 scallions, cut into 1" pieces; 2 tbsp. neutral oil, plus more for grill; 2 tbsp. coarsely chopped fresh cilantro; 10 (8") skewers

Jump to Recipe·4 from 9 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, tropical flavors and a hint of smoky char, you have to try this Grilled Shrimp & Mango Skewers Recipe. It’s an absolute showstopper that perfectly balances succulent shrimp with sweet, juicy mango, all enhanced by a lively blend of jerk sauce, chutney, and BBQ tang. Whether you’re firing up the grill on a sunny afternoon or want to impress friends with something vibrant and easy to make, this recipe combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors in a way that feels both effortless and indulgent.

Ingredients You'll Need

A clear glass bowl with a layer of uncooked shrimp that are light gray and slightly translucent, with dark tails visible on some pieces, sits on a white marbled surface. A woman's hand sprinkles a fine white powder over the shrimp from above, creating a falling motion of the powder. In the background, there are green cilantro leaves and long green onion stalks partly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, coming together to create a colorful and mouthwatering dish. From the plump shrimp that soak up the spicy marinade to the sweet mango pieces that add freshness and vibrant color, these essentials are simple yet essential for building your skewers.

Jumbo shrimp (1 ½ lb.): Peeled and deveined with tails on for an appealing presentation and perfect grill texture.

Kosher salt: Used to season shrimp and mango, enhancing their natural flavors without overpowering them.
Mild jerk sauce (¼ cup): Adds a subtle spicy kick and warm island spices to the shrimp marinade.
Mango chutney (¼ cup): Provides a sweet and tangy base for the glaze, balancing the heat.

Reduced-sodium soy sauce (2 tbsp.): Brings umami depth to the glaze without too much saltiness.
Vinegar-based BBQ sauce (2 tbsp.): Gives a smoky tang that complements the fruitiness of the mango.
Large mango: Peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces, supplying juicy sweetness and a pop of color.

Scallions (3): Cut into 1-inch sections for a mild onion flavor and crunch between shrimp and mango.
Neutral oil (2 tbsp. plus more for grill): Prevents sticking and helps develop a perfect char on the skewers.
Fresh cilantro (2 tbsp.): Roughly chopped and sprinkled over finished skewers for a fresh, herbal finish.

Skewers (10, 8-inch): Ideal for assembling and grilling the shrimp and mango components evenly.

How to Make Grilled Shrimp & Mango Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they grill up nicely and don’t steam. Transfer them to a large bowl, season with kosher salt, then add the mild jerk sauce. Toss everything together so the shrimp is coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Even just 10 minutes lets the flavors soak in, but you can refrigerate it for up to an hour if you want a deeper flavor punch.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango and Glaze

While the shrimp are marinating, mix up the sweet and savory glaze. In a small bowl, stir together the mango chutney, soy sauce, and vinegar-based BBQ sauce until smooth. In another bowl, lightly salt the mango chunks and toss gently. This step ensures the mango pieces stay bright and juicy on the grill without losing their fresh flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Now comes the fun part—threading! Begin with a shrimp, then alternate with mango pieces and scallion sections, repeating the sequence as desired and finishing with a shrimp on the end. This layering creates a beautiful pattern of colors and flavors on each skewer. Before grilling, drizzle the skewers with neutral oil, which will help keep everything from sticking and add a lovely sheen.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare Your Grill

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat for about 5 minutes. Make sure to clean and oil the grates thoroughly. This will help you get those stunning grill marks and prevent the shrimp or mango from sticking and falling apart. Proper heat and preparation are key to getting that slightly charred, smoky taste that makes this Grilled Shrimp & Mango Skewers Recipe so irresistible.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers over the heat and grill for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. As they cook, brush them halfway through with the chutney-BBQ glaze to build layers of flavor and give the shrimp a glossy, caramelized finish. Keep an eye on them—the shrimp will turn a gorgeous pink when they’re perfectly cooked and still juicy.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Transfer your grilled skewers to a serving platter. Brush on any remaining glaze to amp up the sweetness and tang. Finally, sprinkle the fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of color and herbal brightness that ties every bite together beautifully.

How to Serve Grilled Shrimp & Mango Skewers Recipe

The image shows several grilled shrimp and mango skewers arranged on a white oval plate. Each skewer has three layers: a large shrimp with a charred orange and pink shell, a bright yellow mango cube with black grill marks, and a green scallion piece in the middle. The shrimp are coated in a shiny brown sauce, and chopped green cilantro is sprinkled over the skewers. To the top right, there is a white bowl filled with a light brown dipping sauce. The plate is resting on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a few thoughtful garnishes elevates this dish from delicious to memorable. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro injects freshness, while a wedge of lime on the side adds a zesty brightness if someone wants to squeeze a bit of extra tang. You can also scatter some finely chopped red chili or a drizzle of extra jerk sauce for anyone who loves a bit more heat.

Side Dishes

These skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides—think coconut rice to soak up the glaze, a crisp green salad for balance, or even grilled corn for a sweet, smoky complement. The tropical vibe of the mango really shines when matched with light, fresh accompaniments that don’t compete but rather highlight the dish’s vibrant personality.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress, try serving the skewers over a bed of mixed greens or alongside a mango-avocado salsa. For casual gatherings, present them on a wooden board with colorful dipping sauces like a creamy cilantro-lime yogurt or a spicy mango habanero sauce. Either way, the vibrant colors make for a stunning display that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with some leftover shrimp and mango skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days. Make sure to place a paper towel inside the container to absorb any excess moisture, which helps keep the shrimp firm and the mango fresh.

Freezing

Freezing cooked shrimp skewers with mango isn’t recommended since mango’s texture can become soggy and mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze the unmarinated shrimp separately if you want to prep ahead. Defrost them thoroughly before assembling and grilling for the best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the skewers in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes, just until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the mango soft. Another option is to quickly re-grill them over medium heat for a couple of minutes to revive the smoky char.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before marinating. Excess moisture can prevent the shrimp from absorbing the flavors and cause flare-ups on the grill.

What can I substitute for mango if it’s out of season?

Pineapple is a fantastic alternative that offers a similar sweet and tangy flavor profile with great grillability, perfect for keeping the tropical vibe alive.

How spicy is the Grilled Shrimp & Mango Skewers Recipe?

The recipe is mildly spicy thanks to the mild jerk sauce, but the sweetness from the mango and chutney balances it nicely. You can always adjust the jerk sauce level or add more heat with a sprinkle of chili flakes if you prefer.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! A grill pan works wonderfully on the stovetop and can achieve a great char. Just be sure to preheat it well and oil it to prevent sticking.

How long should I marinate the shrimp?

While even 10 minutes can infuse good flavor, marinating up to an hour is ideal for maximum taste without affecting the shrimp’s texture.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Shrimp & Mango Skewers Recipe is an absolute winner whenever you want a dish that’s fresh, vibrant, and bursting with tropical charm. Its beautiful balance of spices, sweetness, and grill-smokiness makes it perfect for summer cookouts, casual dinners, or impressing guests. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again—there’s just something about those juicy mango chunks nestled between tender shrimp that feels like a little celebration on a skewer! So go ahead, fire up the grill, and enjoy every delicious bite.

Grilled Shrimp & Mango Skewers Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need