Chicken with Mango Salsa Recipe

If youโ€™re searching for a dish that instantly brightens up your dinner table, look no further than Chicken with Mango Salsa. This recipe delivers juicy, golden-brown chicken with a lively, sweet and spicy salsa so fresh and colorful it practically begs to be shown off. The interplay of savory, tender chicken and a salsa bursting with mango, lime, and crunchy veggies makes every bite a celebration of bold, sunny flavors. Whether youโ€™re cooking for a weekday dinner or hosting friends on a summer evening, Chicken with Mango Salsa is a surefire way to win hearts and liven up your mealtime routine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken with Mango Salsa lies in its clean, simple ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, whether bringing juiciness, zesty freshness, or a splash of vibrant color. Hereโ€™s what youโ€™ll need and why you shouldnโ€™t skip a single thing:

  • Chicken breasts: Lean and juicy, these soak up all the flavors and grill beautifully.
  • Fresh mango: The star of the salsa, mango adds outstanding sweetness and a bright pop of tropical color.
  • Red bell pepper: Offers crunch and a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the mango.
  • Red onion: Adds a mild zing and a little color contrast in the salsa.
  • Fresh cilantro: Gives your salsa a green flecked freshness you just canโ€™t fake.
  • Jalapeรฑo: The key to a mild kick of spiceโ€”remove the seeds if you prefer less heat.
  • Lime juice: Brings it all together with mouthwatering tanginess, keeping the flavors vivid and bright.
  • Olive oil: Used to marinate the chicken and give it a gorgeous sear.
  • Salt & pepper: Donโ€™t forget theseโ€”just a sprinkle brings out the best in every ingredient.

How to Make Chicken with Mango Salsa

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

First, let your chicken breasts luxuriate in a quick marinade. Blend together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper; pour over the chicken and let it sit for at least 20 minutesโ€”this step helps the flavors infuse and keeps your chicken juicy during cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango Salsa

While your chicken is marinating, dice up the ripe mango, chop the red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and (if you like it spicy) jalapeรฑo. Toss everything in a bowl with fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt. The mango salsa will glisten and, trust me, it smells as amazing as it looks!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high. Once hot, cook the marinated chicken breasts for 5โ€“7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Let them rest a few minutes to lock in juiciness before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve Chicken with Mango Salsa

Plate the sliced, juicy chicken and top generously with your fresh mango salsa. The combo of sizzling chicken and cool, zesty salsa is pure magicโ€”just wait for the compliments to roll in!

How to Serve Chicken with Mango Salsa

Chicken with Mango Salsa Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A scattering of fresh cilantro leaves and a few extra lime wedges add both visual flair and a final punch of flavor. If you want to take things up a notch, a pinch of flaky sea salt or thin-sliced jalapeรฑo on top of the salsa looks stunning and wakes up everyoneโ€™s taste buds.

Side Dishes

Chicken with Mango Salsa is incredibly versatileโ€”try it with fluffy cilantro-lime rice, warm grilled tortillas, or even a simple side salad. Creamy black beans or crispy roasted potatoes also make for hearty, satisfying accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Donโ€™t be afraid to get creative! Serve the chicken sliced on top of a vibrant salad, tuck it into tacos, or pile everything into lettuce cups for a lighter option. Individual plating with an extra spoonful of mango salsa on the side makes every serving feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Chicken with Mango Salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the chicken and salsa separate to maintain the best texture and freshness; theyโ€™ll stay delicious for up to three days.

Freezing

While the chicken itself freezes well, mango salsa is best enjoyed fresh since freezing can change its texture. If you have extra cooked chicken, freeze it in a sealed bag or container for up to two months and prepare a new batch of salsa when ready to serve again.

Reheating

To keep your chicken juicy, reheat it gently in the microwave or a covered skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth. Add fresh salsa after reheating to ensure it stays crisp and vibrant.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are just as delicious and tend to be even juicier. Adjust cooking times as needed since thighs may take an extra minute or two.

Is there a substitute for mango if itโ€™s out of season?

If fresh mango isnโ€™t available, pineapple or even ripe peach chunks make a fantastic alternative. The key is finding a sweet, juicy fruit to balance out the savory chicken.

How spicy is the Chicken with Mango Salsa?

The heat level is in your control! Use as much or as little jalapeรฑo as you like, and always remove the seeds for a milder taste. Itโ€™s easy to dial up the spice for those who love a kick.

Can I make the salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mango salsa up to four hours ahead. Just cover and refrigerate it. The flavors meld beautifully, but for maximum crunch, avoid making it more than a day in advance.

What can I do with leftover Chicken with Mango Salsa?

Leftovers are a giftโ€”try dicing the chicken and tossing it with the salsa to make a zesty wrap, stuffing it into pitas, or serving it cold over greens for the best salad youโ€™ll have all week.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the lively, sun-kissed flavors of Chicken with Mango Salsa, and sharing this dish always brings a splash of joy to the table. I hope youโ€™re inspired to try it soonโ€”one bite and youโ€™ll see just why itโ€™s a favorite in so many kitchens!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Chicken with Mango Salsa Recipe

Chicken with Mango Salsa Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 525 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Fusion/International
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Chicken with Mango Salsa is a vibrant, flavorful main course that features tender, juicy chicken breast topped with a fresh, zesty mango salsa. The sweet and spicy salsa perfectly balances the savory, lightly seasoned chicken, making this dish both healthy and satisfying. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or for impressing guests with a burst of tropical flavor.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Mango Salsa:

  • 1 large ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 jalapeรฑo, seeded and minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165ยฐF/74ยฐC). Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
  3. Prepare the Mango Salsa: While the chicken cooks, combine the diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeรฑo, cilantro, and lime juice in a medium bowl. Toss everything together until well mixed, then season with salt to taste.
  4. Slice and Serve: Slice the rested chicken breasts and arrange on plates. Top generously with the fresh mango salsa, and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Notes

  • You can grill the chicken instead of cooking it on the stovetop for extra smoky flavor.
  • If mango is out of season, substitute with pineapple or peaches.
  • To make it spicier, leave the seeds in the jalapeรฑo or add a dash of cayenne.
  • Serve with rice, quinoa, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with salsa
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 13g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

If you love this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating when you leave a comment. Star ratings help people discover my recipes online. Your support means a lot to me, I appreciate you.

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *