Get ready to savor the taste of summer with my Mango Salsa Chicken! This dish combines juicy grilled chicken with a fresh, zesty mango salsa that bursts with flavor. In this post, I’ll share easy steps for preparation and cooking, plus tips for storing leftovers and variations to spice it up. Whether it’s for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe will become a family favorite!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 2 limes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Information
Mango Salsa Chicken is healthy and balanced. Each serving has about:
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
Flavor Profile
Mango Salsa Chicken bursts with fresh flavors. The chicken is juicy and tender. The mango adds sweetness, while the jalapeño gives a spicy kick. The lime juice brightens the dish. Each bite mixes sweet, spicy, and tangy. The salsa’s crunch from the onion and bell pepper balances the chicken’s softness. This dish feels like a sunny day on a plate!
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This helps the chicken cook evenly and get those nice grill marks.
2. Preparing the mango salsa
In a medium bowl, mix the diced mango, chopped red onion, diced red bell pepper, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mix. Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir well. Set this aside while you prepare the chicken.
Cooking Chicken
1. Coating chicken breasts with olive oil mixture
In a separate bowl, mix two tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of the second lime, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over each chicken breast. This adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist.
2. Grilling instructions
Place the coated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You want it to be nicely charred on the outside but juicy inside.
Serving Suggestions
1. How to plate the dish
Slice the grilled chicken after letting it rest for 5 minutes. Serve it on a colorful plate. Top generously with the mango salsa for a burst of flavor.
2. Recommended garnishes
Add some lime wedges on the side and sprinkle extra cilantro on top. These little touches make the dish look fresh and vibrant.
For the full recipe, you can refer back to the main section. Enjoy your Mango Salsa Chicken!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To ensure your chicken is cooked right, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part. This keeps the meat safe and juicy. To keep chicken moist, marinate it in olive oil and lime juice. This adds flavor and helps it stay tender on the grill.
Mango Salsa Tips
Choosing the right mango is key for great flavor. Look for a fruit that feels slightly soft and smells sweet. This means it’s ripe and ready to eat. To enhance the salsa, try adding a pinch of salt. You can also mix in a dash of chili powder or cumin for extra flavor.
Storage Tips
To store leftover chicken and salsa, place them in airtight containers. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store the chicken longer, freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it well. Salsa can be frozen, too, but it might lose some crunch. Enjoy the full recipe for tasty Mango Salsa Chicken!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily switch the chicken for shrimp or tofu. Both options work well and add their own taste. Shrimp cooks fast and gets a nice char. Tofu is great for a plant-based meal. Just marinate it like the chicken for flavor.
For the salsa, you can swap the mango with other fruits. Pineapple or peaches add a sweet twist. You could also try papaya for a tropical touch. Each fruit brings a different flavor and texture.
Spice Level Adjustments
Adjust the spice level to fit your taste. If you like mild, skip the jalapeño or use just a little. For medium heat, keep the jalapeño with seeds. If you want it hot, add diced serrano peppers or a pinch of cayenne.
You can also serve extra spicy salsa on the side. This lets everyone control their heat level at the table.
Serving Variations
Serve Mango Salsa Chicken in fun ways. Tacos are a great option. Just slice the chicken and pile it into tortillas with salsa. You can add avocado, cheese, or sour cream for extra flavor.
Another option is to serve it over a fresh salad. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. This creates a light, colorful meal.
For a bigger meal, plate it as a platter. Arrange the chicken and salsa with lime wedges and extra cilantro. This makes a beautiful display for a gathering.
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your Mango Salsa Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container. For best results, place it in the fridge. Make sure the chicken is cool before sealing it up. You can also freeze leftovers. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This keeps the chicken safe for up to three months.
Shelf Life
Leftover Mango Salsa Chicken lasts for about three to four days in the fridge. If you freeze it, you can keep it for about three months. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating leftovers. If it looks or smells funny, throw it away.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the chicken moist. You can also use a microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This helps avoid drying out the chicken.
For the full recipe, check out the Mango Salsa Chicken 🥭 section above.
FAQs
Can I make Mango Salsa Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Mango Salsa Chicken ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken breasts in the olive oil mixture for up to 24 hours. This step makes the chicken extra tasty. The mango salsa can also sit in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep it in an airtight container. The flavors will blend well together. Always remember to store them separately until you are ready to serve.
What sides pair well with Mango Salsa Chicken?
Mango Salsa Chicken pairs well with many sides. Here are my top picks:
– Rice: White or brown rice works well.
– Beans: Black beans or pinto beans add protein.
– Vegetables: Grilled or roasted veggies add color and nutrients.
– Salad: A fresh green salad balances the dish.
– Tortillas: Serve with warm tortillas for a fun twist.
These sides add variety and flavor to your meal.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, this recipe is healthy! Here are some reasons why:
– Lean protein: Chicken breasts are low in fat and high in protein.
– Fresh ingredients: The mango, peppers, and onions are full of vitamins.
– Healthy fats: Olive oil provides good fats that are heart-friendly.
– Low in carbs: This dish has fewer carbs, making it light.
Mango Salsa Chicken is a balanced meal that tastes great and nourishes your body. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section!
Mango Salsa Chicken is a fun dish filled with vibrant flavors. You learned about the fresh ingredients and how they come together. The steps to prepare, cook, and serve are simple and clear. Tips and tricks help ensure your chicken stays moist and tasty. Whether you keep it mild or turn up the heat, it’s a delightful meal. Remember to store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. This dish is not just healthy, it’s also easy to share with family and friends. Enjoy crafting this recipe and making it your own!
