Craving a dish that’s both tropical and comforting? This Mango Chicken Recipe brings together the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes and the savory richness of tender chicken to create a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a unique twist on chicken, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. The combination of juicy mangoes, tangy sauce, and perfectly cooked chicken makes it irresistible.
Ready to add a splash of tropical flavor to your table? Let’s dive into this recipe!
Table of contents
- Mango Chicken Recipe Overview: Prep Time, Ingredients & Highlights
- Why Mango and Chicken Make the Perfect Pair
- What Makes This Mango Chicken Recipe Special?
- Mango Chicken Ingredients: What You’ll Need
- How to Make the Best Mango Chicken Recipe
- How to Serve Mango Chicken
- Mango Chicken Recipe: Nutrition Breakdown
- Mango Chicken Recipe: Print-Friendly Version
- Mango Chicken Recipe Variations: Creative Twists
- FAQs About Mango Chicken Recipe
- Try This Mango Chicken Recipe Today!
Mango Chicken Recipe Overview: Prep Time, Ingredients & Highlights
Here’s a quick overview of what makes this Mango Chicken Recipe a must-try:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Recipe Highlights
- Sweet and Savory Balance: The natural sweetness of mango complements the savory chicken perfectly.
- Tropical Vibes: This dish brings a taste of the tropics to your dinner table.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, spice, or tang to match your preferences.
- Versatile Pairings: Goes beautifully with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.
With its vibrant flavors and quick prep, this mango chicken recipe is bound to become a favorite. Let’s explore why mango and chicken are such a winning combination!
Why Mango and Chicken Make the Perfect Pair
The combination of mango and chicken isn’t just delicious—it’s a match made in culinary heaven! Here’s why this pairing works so well:
1. Balancing Sweet and Savory
- The juicy sweetness of ripe mangoes contrasts beautifully with the savory, tender chicken, creating a harmony of flavors in every bite.
2. A Touch of Tropical Flavor
- Mango adds a fresh, tropical twist to chicken dishes, instantly elevating the recipe and making it feel special and tropical.
3. Perfect for Marinades and Sauces
- Mango’s natural sugars caramelize during cooking, creating a rich, golden glaze that enhances both the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Blended mango makes an excellent base for creamy, tangy sauces that cling perfectly to chicken.
4. Popular Across Cuisines
- Mango chicken is loved in various cuisines, from Caribbean jerk-style dishes to Asian stir-fries and Indian curries, showcasing its versatility.
Did You Know?
Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, making this dish not only flavorful but also a nutritious option for your family.
With such a dynamic pairing, it’s no wonder mango chicken is a favorite around the globe. Let’s dive into what makes this particular recipe special!
What Makes This Mango Chicken Recipe Special?
This Mango Chicken Recipe stands out for its flavor, ease, and versatility. Here’s why you’ll love it:
1. A Burst of Tropical Flavor
- The sweetness of mango blends perfectly with the savory chicken, creating a balanced and unique flavor profile.
2. Quick and Easy
- Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
3. Family-Friendly Appeal
- The mild sweetness and vibrant colors make this dish a hit with both kids and adults.
4. Customizable Options
- Adjust the sweetness or spice to suit your taste, and pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal.
5. Stunning Presentation
- The bright golden mango sauce and tender chicken create a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
This recipe brings together the best of simplicity and flavor for a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to bring it to life!
Mango Chicken Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients for Sweet and Savory Perfection
- Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Mangoes:
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced (or use 1 cup frozen mango chunks, thawed).
- Onion:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped.
- Garlic:
- 2 cloves, minced.
- Ginger:
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger.
- Soy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons, for a savory base.
- Honey:
- 1 tablespoon, to enhance the natural sweetness of the mangoes.
- Lime Juice:
- Juice of 1 lime, for a tangy kick.
- Spices:
- 1 teaspoon curry powder or paprika, for added depth of flavor.
- Olive Oil:
- 1 tablespoon, for cooking.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- Spice Boost: Add ½ teaspoon red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Coconut Cream: Stir in ¼ cup coconut cream for a creamy, tropical version.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
- Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle with toasted cashews or almonds for texture.
How to Make the Best Mango Chicken Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create a vibrant and flavorful mango chicken dish:
Preparing the Marinade
- Blend the Mango:
- In a blender, puree 1 cup of diced mango until smooth. Reserve the remaining diced mango for later.
- Mix the Marinade:
- In a bowl, combine the mango puree, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, juice of 1 lime, and 1 teaspoon curry powder or paprika.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Mix well to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
Cooking the Chicken
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden. Set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Making the Mango Sauce
- Add the Marinade:
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine the Chicken:
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Add the remaining diced mango and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Finish the Dish:
- Taste the sauce and adjust with additional lime juice, honey, or spices if needed.
Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, parsley, or toasted cashews. Serve hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Pro Tip
For an extra creamy version, stir in ¼ cup of coconut cream just before serving to make a rich mango sauce.
For a complete tropical-inspired feast, serve your mango chicken with our Easy Coconut Bread Recipe: Soft, Moist, and Delicious.
How to Serve Mango Chicken
This Mango Chicken Recipe is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas to complete your meal:
1. Classic Pairings
- Steamed Rice: The sweet and tangy sauce soaks perfectly into fluffy jasmine or basmati rice.
- Quinoa: A protein-packed alternative that complements the dish’s tropical flavors.
- Coconut Rice: Enhance the tropical theme by serving with coconut-infused rice.
2. Light and Fresh Options
- Mixed Greens Salad: Toss greens with a citrus vinaigrette for a light, refreshing side.
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus pair well with the sweetness of the mango sauce.
- Mango Salsa: Double down on mango flavor by serving a side of fresh mango salsa with lime and cilantro.
3. For a Hearty Meal
- Noodles: Serve over stir-fried noodles for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add a satisfying crunch alongside the juicy chicken.
- Flatbreads: Scoop the chicken and sauce onto warm naan or pita bread for a fun and flavorful option.
. Garnishes for Extra Flair
- Chopped Cilantro: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Toasted Cashews or Almonds: Sprinkle for a delightful crunch.
- Lime Wedges: Offer a squeeze of lime for added brightness.
Presentation Tips
- Serve the mango chicken in a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant sauce and garnishes.
- Arrange the chicken over a bed of rice or greens for a visually appealing plate.
- Use fresh mango slices and herbs to decorate the platter for a tropical, restaurant-style presentation.
Mango Chicken Recipe: Nutrition Breakdown
Here’s the approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
Healthy Adjustments
- Reduce Sodium:
- Use low-sodium soy sauce or reduce the amount of soy sauce in the marinade.
- Lower Sugar Content:
- Skip the honey if the mango is naturally sweet enough.
- Add Fiber:
- Serve with quinoa or add a side of steamed vegetables for extra fiber.
- Lower Fat:
- Use a non-stick skillet with minimal oil for cooking the chicken.
This nutritional breakdown ensures the recipe fits into a balanced diet while offering tips for healthier adaptations.
Packed with protein, this mango chicken recipe is a healthy dinner option. Discover more ideas in our 7 High Protein Chicken Recipes for Healthy and Delicious Meals.
Mango Chicken Recipe: Print-Friendly Version
PrintSweet and Savory Mango Chicken
Description
This Mango Chicken Recipe combines tender chicken and sweet mangoes in a vibrant, tropical dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced (1 cup blended, 1 cup diced for later)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon curry powder or paprika
- For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro
- Toasted cashews or almonds
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Blend the Mango:
In a blender, puree 1 cup of diced mango until smooth. Reserve the remaining diced mango for later.
Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix the mango puree, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and curry powder. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve marinade) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Make the Sauce:
Add the reserved marinade to the skillet. Simmer for 3-4 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet, add the remaining diced mango, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
Serve and Garnish:
Garnish with cilantro, cashews, or lime wedges. Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Notes
For a creamy twist, stir in ¼ cup coconut cream before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Mango Chicken Recipe Variations: Creative Twists
Explore these flavorful variations to customize your mango chicken dish:
1. Spicy Mango Chicken
- Add ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a kick of heat.
- Pair with a cooling yogurt sauce or raita to balance the spice.
2. Coconut Mango Chicken
- Stir in ¼ cup coconut cream or coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy, tropical twist.
- Serve with coconut rice for a complete island-inspired meal.
3. Grilled Mango Chicken
- Marinate the chicken as directed, then grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, basting with the marinade.
- Serve with a side of grilled mango slices and a squeeze of lime.
4. Mango Chicken Stir-Fry
- Add colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots. Stir-fry them before adding the chicken and mango sauce for a vibrant one-pan meal.
5. Mango Curry Chicken
- Incorporate 1 tablespoon of curry paste (red or yellow) into the sauce for a bold, flavorful curry.
- Serve with naan bread or basmati rice to soak up the sauce.
6. Mango Chicken Tacos
- Shred the cooked chicken and serve in tortillas with fresh mango salsa, avocado slices, and a drizzle of lime crema.
- A fun and flavorful way to enjoy mango chicken in a handheld format!
Pro Tip for Variations
Combine ideas, like adding chili flakes to a coconut mango chicken or grilling mango slices for a tropical curry, to create your own signature version.
Looking for gluten-free ideas? Try adapting this dish or explore our Gluten-Free Chicken Recipes: Easy Meals For Every Occasion.
FAQs About Mango Chicken Recipe
To cut a mango for this dish, slice off the two cheeks along the flat seed in the center. Score the flesh into cubes while still in the skin, then scoop them out with a spoon.
Mango chicken naturally contains sugar from the mangoes. The recipe also uses a small amount of honey to enhance sweetness, but this can be omitted if preferred.
On average, mango chicken with a serving of steamed rice has approximately 450–500 calories, depending on portion sizes and additional ingredients like coconut milk or garnishes.
Yes! Frozen mango works well as a substitute for fresh mango. Thaw it before blending for the marinade or using it as a topping.
For inspiration, see our Frozen Chicken Slow Cooker Recipes: Easy and Delicious Meals.
If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few extra minutes to reduce. Alternatively, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce.
Try This Mango Chicken Recipe Today!
This Mango Chicken Recipe is a delightful blend of tropical sweetness and savory goodness, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe is sure to deliver.
With its vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and versatile serving options, mango chicken is a dish you’ll return to again and again. Pair it with your favorite sides, customize it with your favorite twists, and enjoy a meal that’s as exciting to look at as it is to eat.
We’d love to hear how your mango chicken turned out! 📝 Share your feedback in the comments below or tag us on social media with your creations. Your experience inspires us to create more recipes you’ll love.
If you’re looking for more creative ways to enjoy chicken, check out our Chicken Breakfast Recipes: Quick, Hearty, and Packed with Protein for morning inspiration.
Happy cooking, and enjoy the burst of tropical flavor in every bite!