Mango Salsa Grilled Chicken (Light & Refreshing!)
This Mango Salsa Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and refreshing dish featuring juicy, spice-rubbed grilled chicken topped with a sweet and tangy mango salsa. The combination of smoky, citrusy, and slightly spicy flavors makes this a perfect meal for summer grilling or a light, healthy dinner.
Ingredients
For the chicken, you’ll need:
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts – These are the perfect cut for grilling, offering lean protein without the extra fat.
- Olive oil – Helps keep the chicken moist and adds a subtle flavor.
- Garlic powder – Gives a hint of savory flavor that complements the chicken.
- Ground cumin – A dash of cumin adds an earthy warm note that works beautifully with the mango salsa.
- Paprika – Adds a smoky depth to the grilled chicken.
- Lime juice – A squeeze of lime gives the chicken a zesty fresh finish.
- Salt and pepper – To taste for seasoning.
For the mango salsa:
- Ripe mangoes – Choose firm ripe mangoes for the best sweetness and texture. Mangoes are packed with vitamins A and C, which will give your salsa a nutritious boost.
- Red bell pepper – Adds crunch and color to the salsa balancing the sweetness of the mango.
- Red onion – For a mild slightly sweet bite that contrasts with the fruitiness of the mango.
- Cilantro – A fresh fragrant herb that brightens up the salsa.
- Jalapeño – If you enjoy a little heat a finely chopped jalapeño will add a spicy kick. You can omit this if you prefer a milder version.
- Lime juice – Fresh lime juice enhances the flavors of the salsa and ties everything together.
- Salt – A pinch to season the salsa.
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, ground cumin, paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let it sit for at least 20 to 30 minutes. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken will be, but even a short marinade will still yield delicious results.
Step 2: Prepare the Mango Salsa
- While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to make the mango salsa. Begin by dicing the mangoes into small cubes. For a perfect salsa, make sure the mangoes are ripe but still firm enough to hold their shape. Dice the red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño (if using), and chop the cilantro.
- In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients for the salsa: mango, bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice. Toss everything gently to combine. Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning with more lime juice or salt if needed. Set it aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
- Once the chicken has marinated, heat your grill to medium-high heat. You can also use a stovetop grill pan if you don't have an outdoor grill. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Make sure the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks on both sides.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays tender and juicy.
- Slice the grilled chicken into strips and top it generously with the mango salsa. You can also serve the salsa on the side for your guests to add as they please. Pair this dish with a light side like a fresh salad, quinoa, or roasted vegetables, and you've got yourself a perfect meal!
Notes
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Mango Ripeness Tip: Use ripe but firm mangoes for the best balance of sweetness and texture.
- Spice Level: Adjust the jalapeño based on your heat preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with rice, quinoa, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.