Some dishes bring a little extra excitement to the table, and this mango chicken recipe is one of them. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, combining juicy mangoes, tender chicken, and a rich, flavorful sauce that makes every bite unforgettable.
What makes this dish so special? The natural sweetness of ripe mango enhances the savory depth of the chicken, while a hint of spice and acidity keeps everything balanced. As the mango caramelizes, it creates a velvety sauce that clings to the chicken, making the dish both comforting and vibrant.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something unique to serve for guests, this mango chicken recipe delivers. It’s easy to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and completely customizable—so you can adjust the spice level, add a creamy twist, or even grill the chicken for extra smoky flavor.
With minimal effort and maximum taste, this is one mango chicken recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Let’s get started!
Table of contents
Why Mango and Chicken Work So Well Together
At first, mango and chicken might seem like an unusual combination, but together, they create a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The natural sweetness of ripe mango enhances the richness of the chicken, while its slight acidity brightens every bite, keeping the dish fresh and vibrant.
Beyond flavor, mango brings a smooth, velvety texture to sauces, making them thicker and more luxurious. As it cooks, its natural sugars caramelize, adding depth and complexity to the dish. This creates a rich, golden glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken, making every bite irresistible.
With such a perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s no surprise that mango chicken recipes have become a favorite in so many kitchens. Now, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.
This pairing isn’t new—mango chicken recipes can be found in cuisines across the world. From Caribbean jerk chicken with mango salsa to Indian mango curries and Thai-inspired stir-fries, mango has long been used to elevate savory dishes with its tropical sweetness.
What You’ll Need to Make Mango Chicken
This recipe comes together with simple, fresh ingredients that create bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
- Mango – Fresh, ripe mango for sweetness, or frozen if out of season.
- Garlic & Ginger – Add depth and warmth to the dish.
- Onion – Brings a savory base to balance the mango’s sweetness.
- Soy Sauce – Enhances the umami flavor and creates a rich sauce.
- Lime Juice – Adds a touch of acidity to brighten the flavors.
- Honey – A natural way to enhance the mango’s sweetness.
- Curry Powder or Paprika – For extra depth and warmth.
Optional Add-Ins
- Coconut Cream – For a richer, creamier sauce.
- Chili Flakes or Cayenne – If you like a spicy kick.
- Fresh Herbs – Cilantro or parsley for a bright finishing touch.
- Toasted Cashews or Almonds – For added crunch.
For exact measurements and step-by-step instructions, see the printable recipe card below. Now, let’s go over a few creative ways to customize this dish.
Ways to Customize Your Mango Chicken
This dish is easy to adjust based on your taste. Here are a few simple ways to switch things up:
- Spicy Kick – Add chili flakes or cayenne to balance the sweetness. A squeeze of lime enhances the spice.
- Creamy Twist – Stir in coconut milk for a richer, silkier sauce that pairs beautifully with jasmine rice.
- Grilled Version – Marinate the chicken, then grill it for a smoky, charred flavor. Serve with grilled mango slices for extra sweetness.
- Mango Chicken Tacos – Shred the cooked chicken and serve in warm tortillas with fresh mango salsa and avocado.
If fresh mango isn’t available, frozen mango works just as well. For tips on using it in both sweet and savory dishes, check out 7 Amazing Ways to Use Frozen Mango in Recipes.
For a gluten-free version, swap soy sauce for coconut aminos or tamari. Need more gluten-free meal ideas? Explore Gluten-Free Chicken Recipes: Easy Meals For Every Occasion.
For inspiration, see our Frozen Chicken Slow Cooker Recipes: Easy and Delicious Meals.
With these easy variations, you can make this dish your own while keeping the bold, tropical flavors front and center. Now, let’s get cooking!
Mango Chicken Recipe: Print-Friendly Version
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Sweet and Savory Mango Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Below is the full recipe with exact measurements and step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish delivers bold, tropical flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken – 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Mango – 2 ripe mangoes, diced (or 1 cup frozen mango, thawed)
Onion – 1 small onion, finely chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
Soy Sauce – 2 tablespoons for a savory depth
Honey – 1 tablespoon to enhance the mango’s sweetness
Lime Juice – Juice of 1 lime for a bright, tangy contrast
Curry Powder or Paprika – 1 teaspoon for extra depth
Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon for cooking
Instructions
1. Blend the Mango:
Puree 1 cup of the diced mango in a blender until smooth. Set aside the remaining diced mango for later.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine mango puree, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and curry powder.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add chicken to the marinade, mix well, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
4. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Set aside.
5. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet, bring to a simmer, and cook for 3-4 minutes.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, add the remaining diced mango, and toss to coat. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
8. Serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro or toasted cashews. Serve hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Notes
For a creamy version, stir in ¼ cup coconut milk before serving.
To thicken the sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes or mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water).
For a bolder flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Using frozen mango? Be sure to check out 7 Amazing Ways to Use Frozen Mango in Recipes for more tips.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion (inspired by tropical and Asian flavors
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: mango chicken recipe, easy mango chicken, tropical chicken dish, sweet and savory chicken, mango stir-fry, quick chicken dinner
FAQs About Mango Chicken Recipe
Can we eat chicken and mango together?
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.
Does mango chicken have sugar?
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.
How many calories are in mango chicken with rice?
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.
Can I use frozen mango for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen mango is a great substitute for fresh mango. Just be sure to thaw it first before blending it into the marinade or adding it to the dish. This helps maintain the right texture and ensures the flavors blend smoothly into the sauce.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
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.
What are some good side dishes to serve with mango chicken?
Steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or coconut-infused rice complement the flavors well. For a lighter option, consider a mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
Try This Mango Chicken Recipe Today!
This mango chicken recipe proves that simple ingredients can create bold, unforgettable flavors. The combination of sweet, juicy mango, tender chicken, and savory spices makes every bite exciting—whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight meal or serving something special for guests.
Now it’s your turn to bring this dish to life! Try this mango chicken recipe and make it your own. Adjust the spice, add a creamy twist, or try it grilled—then let us know how it turned out. Drop a comment below or tag us on social media with your version!.
Looking for more ways to cook with chicken? Start your day with Chicken Breakfast Recipes: Quick, Hearty, and Packed with Protein, or keep the tropical theme going with our Easy Coconut Bread Recipe: Soft, Moist, and Delicious.
Happy cooking, and enjoy the burst of tropical flavor in every bite!