There’s something wonderfully refreshing about the combination of sweet, juicy mango and flavorful, grilled chicken that transports me straight to a sun-soaked summer evening. While the scent of a sizzling grill fills the air, I can’t help but smile as friends gather around, eager to enjoy a dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.
In an age where fast food often wins out over home cooking, taking the time to create a meal like Grilled Mango Chicken can feel like a small act of rebellion—or better yet, a celebration of good food and good company. This recipe brings together the bright, zesty notes of lime and aromatic herbs with tender, marinated chicken, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.
Join me as we transform simple ingredients into a dish that not only delights the senses but also reminds us of the joy of homemade meals. Let’s fire up the grill and embrace the flavors of fresh, vibrant cuisine!
Why will you love Grilled Mango Chicken?
Flavor Explosion: This dish showcases the perfect blend of sweet mango and zesty lime, making every bite a refreshing experience.
Quick Marination: With just 30 minutes to marinate, you can whip this up in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Grill Mark Magic: Grilling locks in flavors and gives you those beautiful char marks that make any meal feel special.
Versatile Delight: Serve it over rice, in wraps, or alongside a fresh salad for a meal that fits any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for a family dinner or a backyard BBQ, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table!
Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, it’s a wholesome substitute for fast food.
Grilled Mango Chicken Ingredients
• Dive into the vibrant flavors of Grilled Mango Chicken with these essential ingredients!
For the Marinade
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts – Perfectly tender, these strips soak up the marinade beautifully.
- Cubed mango – Adds sweetness and a tropical flair that elevates the dish.
- Freshly squeezed lime juice – Offers a zesty brightness that balances the sweetness of the mango.
- Extra virgin olive oil – Helps to keep the chicken moist and enhances the marinade’s flavors.
- Coconut sugar (optional) – A hint of sweetness that complements the fruity notes, but can be skipped for a lighter option.
- Green onion – Provides a mild, oniony crunch that enhances the texture of the dish.
- Garlic – Infuses a warm, aromatic depth to the marinade.
- Cilantro – Adds a burst of fresh flavor; don’t hesitate to use both leaves and stems for extra zest.
- Sea salt – Enhances all the flavors, making each bite irresistibly delicious!
How to Make Grilled Mango Chicken
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Combine ingredients: Place mango, lime juice, olive oil, coconut sugar, green onions, garlic, cilantro, and sea salt in a food processor. Pulse until mostly smooth, creating a vibrant marinade.
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Marinate chicken: Pour the flavorful marinade over the chicken strips, ensuring each piece is coated well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for maximum flavor infusion.
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Preheat grill: Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium heat. Don’t forget to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and ensure the chicken releases easily.
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Grill chicken: Once the grill is hot, lay the marinated chicken strips on it. Grill for 5-7 minutes, flip, and baste with leftover marinade for extra flavor. Grill for another 5-7 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
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Garnish and serve: Once perfectly grilled, garnish with additional cilantro and lime if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy a taste of tropical paradise!
Optional: Serve with a side of jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Grilled Mango Chicken?
Imagine a vibrant dinner table filled with colorful dishes that perfectly complement the bright, tropical flavors of your grilled masterpiece.
- Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice absorbs the zesty marinade, making it a perfect canvas for your mango-infused chicken.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and colorful veggies provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich sweetness of the chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky flavor and a delightful crunch that pairs well with the dish.
- Mango Salsa: Bright, fruity, and slightly spicy, this salsa enhances the mango notes in the chicken while adding a zesty pop to each bite.
- Coconut Rice: Infused with creamy coconut milk, this dish offers a luscious complement, creating a harmonious sweet and savory balance.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the meal, bringing out the juicy notes of the mango and refreshing lime.
- Cilantro Lime Quinoa: This nutrient-packed side brings a nutty flavor and a limey zing, echoing the vibrant notes of your grilled chicken.
Make Ahead Options
Planning ahead makes making Grilled Mango Chicken a breeze for those busy days! You can marinate the chicken strips up to 24 hours ahead of time, which allows the flavors to deepen and the meat to tenderize beautifully. Simply follow the marination steps, cover the dish, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can prep the marinade—combine all the ingredients except the chicken—up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to cook, just coat the chicken, preheat the grill, and proceed with the grilling instructions as usual. This way, you’ll enjoy a quick, flavorful meal that feels fresh and just as delicious!
Expert Tips for Grilled Mango Chicken
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Marination Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate for the full hour if possible; this enhances the flavors and tenderness.
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Don’t Skimp on Oil: Lightly oil the grill grates before cooking. This helps prevent sticking and ensures those beautiful grill marks on your chicken.
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe and perfectly cooked meat, preventing any undercooked bites.
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Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to swap mango for pineapple or peach for a different fruity flair in your Grilled Mango Chicken—keep the joy of creativity alive!
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Serve it Fresh: Enjoy the chicken immediately after grilling for the best flavor and texture. The longer it sits, the less vibrant those fresh tastes will be!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Mango Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover grilled mango chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its juicy texture and vibrant flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze marinated chicken strips before grilling. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing air, and they’ll last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then grill or pan-sear on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy your grilled mango chicken with all its delightful flavors!
Grilled Mango Chicken Variations
Feel free to customize and elevate this dish with your own unique twists and dietary preferences!
- Pineapple Twist: Substitute mango with fresh pineapple for a tangy sweetness that’s equally delightful. The tropical flavors will shine through!
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños to the marinade for a fiery burst of heat that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the mango.
- Herb Infusion: Replace cilantro with fresh basil or mint for a different herbaceous flavor that adds a refreshing touch to each bite.
- Vegan Delight: Swap the chicken for firm tofu, marinating it the same way. Grill until it’s golden, achieving the same delicious flavor profile.
- Zesty Citrus: Enhance the marinade with orange juice in addition to lime for a bright, citrusy flavor that makes your taste buds dance.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving for an enjoyable, crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
- Creamy Addition: Serve with a coconut yogurt sauce for a creamy element that balances the overall dish, bringing a refreshing coolness to the grilled flavors.
- Skewered Fun: Thread marinated chicken and mango onto skewers, alternating with bell peppers or onion. Grill for added texture and visual appeal!
Grilled Mango Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe mangoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch, with a sweet aroma at the stem end. They should have a vibrant skin color, which varies by variety (ranging from green to yellow or red). Avoid mangoes with dark spots or blemishes.
What’s the best way to store leftover Grilled Mango Chicken?
You can store leftover grilled mango chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain its juicy texture. If reheating, you might want to cover it to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze Grilled Mango Chicken? If so, how?
Yes, you can certainly freeze it! For the best results, freeze the marinated chicken strips before grilling. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible, and they’ll last up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge, then grill as per the recipe.
What should I do if my grilled chicken is dry?
Very! To avoid dry chicken, ensure you don’t overcook it. Always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. If you find they’re dry, consider marinating for longer next time or reducing the cooking time slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Indeed! This Grilled Mango Chicken is naturally gluten-free and can be made without added sugars by omitting the coconut sugar. You can also easily substitute the chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein for a vegan option. Just ensure to accommodate any personal dietary needs and preferences!
Grilled Mango Chicken: A Flavor-Packed Tropical Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a food processor and pulse until mostly smooth.
- Pour the marinade over chicken strips, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grates.
- Grill chicken strips for 5-7 minutes, flip, baste with leftover marinade, and grill for another 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
- Garnish with additional cilantro and lime, then serve hot.
