Hey guys, it’s Hayat here! Are you looking to add a fresh and tropical twist to your grilled chicken? This Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa recipe is just what you need! Packed with lean protein, vibrant fruit, and zesty flavors, itโs a dish thatโll transport your taste buds straight to the tropics. Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ or just want a quick, healthy dinner, this recipe will have you covered.
In this post, Iโll share with you everything you need to know about making this dish, including step-by-step instructions, health benefits, and tips for customization. Plus, Iโll break down the nutritional value of each ingredient, showing you how this meal fuels your body with the essential nutrients it needs. So, letโs dive in and make some mouthwatering grilled chicken with mango salsa!
Why Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa is a Must-Try
1. A Healthy Source of Lean Protein
Grilled chicken is one of the best sources of lean protein, making it perfect for those looking to maintain muscle or stay full longer. Itโs a low-fat option that delivers essential amino acids to support muscle repair and recovery. Plus, with a serving size of around 26 grams of protein per 3-ounce portion, youโll stay satisfied and energized.
Learn more about the importance of lean protein in our post on Healthy Grilled Chicken and Rice.
2. Mangoes: A Tropical Superfruit
Mangoes aren’t just deliciousโtheyโre also packed with vitamin C, fiber, and powerful antioxidants like beta-carotene. These nutrients help boost your immune system, promote healthy digestion, and support skin health. Adding mangoes to your meals is a great way to increase your daily fruit intake.
For more information on the health benefits of mangoes, check out this post on the benefits of tropical fruits.
3. Nutrient-Rich Vegetables
Incorporating fresh herbs and veggies into your salsa, such as red onions, cilantro, and jalapeรฑos, boosts the mealโs overall nutritional value. These colorful ingredients are not only high in vitamins and minerals but also add a burst of flavor to your dish.
For more veggie inspiration, you can visit our article on Vegetable Lentil Soup to explore other ways to get your daily greens.
Ingredients Youโll Need
Hereโs everything you need to prepare this delicious and healthy meal:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 jalapeรฑo, seeded and minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until fully blended. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, and ensure theyโre fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Step 2: Prepare the Mango Salsa
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the mango salsa. In a medium bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeรฑo, cilantro, and lime juice. Toss the ingredients together and season with salt. For best results, refrigerate the salsa for 15-20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and grill them for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF (75ยฐC). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the grilled chicken topped with a generous portion of mango salsa. For an added touch, garnish with extra cilantro and a wedge of lime on the side.
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Health Benefits of Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa
1. Boosts Immune Health
Mangoes are loaded with vitamin C, which is essential for boosting immunity and fighting off infections. Eating meals rich in vitamin C can help reduce the severity of colds and improve overall immune function. Pairing mangoes with lean protein like grilled chicken makes this meal an immune-boosting powerhouse.
2. Supports Weight Loss
If you’re looking to maintain or lose weight, this dish is ideal. The high-protein content from the chicken helps you feel full longer, preventing overeating. Plus, mangoes provide natural sweetness without added sugar, making this meal a satisfying, healthy option. Want more weight-loss tips? Head over to our post on Healthy Sesame Chicken.
3. Enhances Skin Health
Thanks to the antioxidants and vitamins in mangoes, this recipe can help improve skin health. Vitamin A and beta-carotene in mangoes promote glowing skin and protect against signs of aging. For more ways to incorporate skin-boosting foods into your diet, check out this post on foods for glowing skin.
Tips for Customizing Your Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa
Spice It Up: If you enjoy extra heat, add more jalapeรฑos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your mango salsa for a fiery kick.
Switch Up the Fruit: Swap out mango for pineapple or peach to give the salsa a different tropical twist. You can even combine multiple fruits for a more diverse flavor profile.
Make It Vegan: For a vegan alternative, replace the grilled chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh. The sweet and tangy mango salsa complements plant-based proteins just as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa with any of the following sides for a complete, balanced meal:
- A side of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. Check out our recipe for Healthy Grilled Chicken and Rice for inspiration.
- Roasted sweet potatoes or steamed veggies make excellent low-carb sides.
- Pair it with a fresh green salad or a bowl of Chickpea Salad for a light, refreshing complement to the chicken.
Cost Breakdown
| Ingredient | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts (4) | $8.00 |
| Mango (1 large) | $1.50 |
| Red Onion (1/2) | $0.50 |
| Jalapeรฑo (1/2) | $0.25 |
| Cilantro (fresh bunch) | $1.00 |
| Lime (2) | $1.00 |
| Olive Oil (2 tbsp) | $0.50 |
| Total | $12.75 |
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fats | 9g |
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa recipe is a tropical escape right at your dinner table. With its combination of lean protein, sweet mango, and fresh herbs, itโs a healthy and delicious way to enjoy your next meal. Plus, the recipe is customizable and perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to special gatherings. Fire up your grill and give this recipe a try today! Donโt forget to share your creations with the hashtag #MangoSalsaGrill on social media!
For more healthy and delicious recipes, check out our Avocado Toast with Egg or the ever-popular Quinoa and Black Bean Salad for more inspiration!
Recap Of The Recipe
Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan For cooking the chicken.
- Mixing bowl To combine salsa ingredients.
- Measuring cups & spoons For accurately measuring ingredients.
- Knife & cutting board To chop chicken, mango, and vegetables.
- Tongs or spatula For flipping and serving the chicken.
Ingredients
- Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa Recipe
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 large ripe mango diced
- 1/2 small red onion finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 small jalapeรฑo minced (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts, coating them well. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Salsa: In another mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeรฑo (if using), lime juice, and salt. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF (75ยฐC).
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken and top it with the mango salsa. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Notes
- Marination Time: For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the marinade.
- Chicken Cut: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, but you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as thighs may take a little longer.
- Mango Ripeness: Use ripe mangoes for the salsa, as they are sweeter and more flavorful. A perfectly ripe mango should be slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat level of the salsa by modifying the amount of jalapeรฑo or adding red pepper flakes to taste. For a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeรฑo.
- Serving Suggestions: This grilled chicken pairs beautifully with a side of brown rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it in tacos or wraps for a fun twist.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Cook extra chicken and salsa for quick and healthy lunches throughout the week.
- Grilling Alternatives: If you donโt have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or in the oven at 400ยฐF (200ยฐC) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Garnish: For an extra burst of flavor, consider garnishing the dish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving.
Ready to Impress?
Try this Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa recipe tonight and enjoy the explosion of flavors! Donโt forget to share your creations with us on social media using #GrilledChickenWithMangoSalsa and tag us @notallrecipes. We canโt wait to see how it turns out for you! Enjoy cooking!
