Easy Mango Salsa Chicken Recipe

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Mango salsa chicken is a bright and vibrant dish that brings the refreshing taste of tropical fruit together with the savory, tender flavors of grilled or baked chicken. This recipe is not only flavorful but also very easy to make, making it an excellent option for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even a crowd-pleasing dish for a casual get-together. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that’s full of flavor and texture.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken:

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   • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures the chicken cooks properly.
   • In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
   • Drizzle olive oil over the chicken to help with the cooking process and add moisture to the chicken.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You may want to cover the grill to retain moisture.
   • Pan-Seared Method: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Again, check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
   • Baking Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can broil for the last 2-3 minutes to get a golden-brown color on the top.

3. Let the Chicken Rest:

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   • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures that the chicken remains moist and tender.

Step 2: Make the Mango Salsa

While the chicken is resting, prepare the mango salsa. It’s a simple mix of fresh ingredients that adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory chicken.

1. Prepare the Mangoes:

   • Start by peeling the mangoes. A mango peeler or a regular vegetable peeler works great for this task.
   • Slice off both sides of the mango, avoiding the large pit in the center. Dice the mango flesh into small cubes.

2. Chop the Vegetables:

   • Finely chop the red onion and red bell pepper. If you want some heat, slice the jalapeño in half, remove the seeds (unless you want extra spice), and dice it finely.
   • Roughly chop the cilantro to your liking.

3. Mix the Salsa:

   • In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using).
   • Add the lime juice and stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like it a little sweeter, you can add a drizzle of honey or agave nectar, but this is optional.

4. Let the Salsa Rest:

   • Let the mango salsa sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the salsa will taste even better!

Step 3: Serve the Mango Salsa Chicken

Now that both your chicken and salsa are ready, it’s time to assemble the dish.

1. Slice the Chicken (Optional):

   • While the chicken is resting, you can slice it into thinner strips or serve it whole. Slicing the chicken is optional, but it gives the dish a nice presentation and allows the salsa to cling to the chicken better.

2. Serve:

   • Place the chicken breasts (whole or sliced) on a platter or individual plates.
   • Generously spoon the mango salsa over the chicken. You can also serve the salsa on the side if you prefer.

3. Garnish:

   • For extra freshness, you can sprinkle a little more chopped cilantro on top or add some lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus.

Tips for the Best Mango Salsa Chicken

• Choosing the Right Mango: Make sure the mangoes you use are ripe. They should give slightly to the touch and have a sweet, fragrant smell. If they’re not ripe, the salsa won’t have the sweetness that makes the dish so delightful.

• Adjusting the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder salsa, you can omit the jalapeño or replace it with a bell pepper. For those who enjoy heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add more if you want extra spice.

• Make-Ahead Option: Both the chicken and the salsa can be prepared in advance. Grill or bake the chicken ahead of time, and refrigerate it. The salsa can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

• Add Extra Flavor: If you want to kick the flavor up a notch, consider adding a teaspoon of ground coriander or chili powder to the spice mix for the chicken. These ingredients will complement the sweetness of the mango salsa.

• Serving Suggestions: This mango salsa chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips as a fun appetizer or make it into tacos by placing the chicken and salsa in soft tortillas.

Variations

While the recipe is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try to make it your own:

1. Mango Salsa with Avocado: Add diced avocado to the mango salsa for extra creaminess and richness. The avocado will balance the acidity of the lime and give the salsa a smooth texture.

2. Grilled Pineapple Chicken: Swap out mango for grilled pineapple in the salsa for a slightly different flavor profile. Grilled pineapple adds a smoky, caramelized taste that pairs beautifully with the charred chicken.

3. Coconut Mango Salsa: If you love tropical flavors, consider adding some shredded coconut to the mango salsa. It adds a fun texture and even more of a tropical flair.

4. Use Different Proteins: This mango salsa recipe isn’t limited to just chicken. You can easily swap out the chicken for other proteins like pork, shrimp, or even tofu. Each of these options would pair beautifully with the fresh mango salsa.

Conclusion

This Easy Mango Salsa Chicken recipe is the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and tangy, making it a crowd-pleasing meal that’s as simple as it is delicious. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or baking the chicken, the fresh mango salsa adds a refreshing, tropical twist that makes the dish stand out. It’s a healthy, flavorful option that’s perfect for any occasion.

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