This Easy Grilled Mango Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is marinated in a sweet and tangy mango sauce, then grilled to perfection for a delightful meal.
You know what’s great? The combination of juicy chicken and fresh mango makes it feel like a summer party on your plate. I like serving it with a side of rice for the full experience!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless chicken thighs as they’re juicy and full of flavor. You can definitely use chicken breasts if you prefer something leaner. Just remember, they may dry out a bit if overcooked.
Mango: Fresh ripe mango is key for that sweet taste. If you can’t find fresh mango, canned mango pulp is a suitable substitute. Just ensure there’s no added sugar to keep it natural.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice gives a bright zing. You can substitute with lemon juice in a pinch, but lime really enhances the mango’s sweetness best.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps with caramelization when grilling. You can replace it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor.
Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika create warm flavors. Don’t worry if you don’t have smoked paprika; regular paprika works too. Experiment with your favorite spices!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling chicken perfectly is all about the marinade and the cooking temperature. Marinating the chicken not only infuses it with flavor but also helps keep it moist. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a good quality marinade and let it sit for at least an hour. Overnight works even better!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Too hot, and you risk burning the outside while the inside stays raw.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side, using a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature hits 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps it stay juicy as the juices redistribute inside.
By following these tips, your grilled mango chicken will turn out delicious and juicy every time!
How to Make Easy Grilled Mango Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
For The Marinade:
- 1 cup fresh ripe mango, peeled and chopped (or canned mango pulp)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to marinate. If you can let it marinate for 2-3 hours (or overnight), you’ll get even better flavor! Then, grilling will take about 10-15 minutes. Overall, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by combining the chopped mango, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend everything together until it’s smooth. This will be your tasty mango marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag, then pour the mango marinade and olive oil over the chicken. Toss the chicken in the marinade until it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and put it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, aim for 2-3 hours or even overnight.
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade—do not discard the marinade!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Put the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and it has nice grill marks. As the chicken grills, brush it occasionally with the reserved marinade to keep it moist and flavorful.
5. Rest and Serve:
When the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve the grilled mango chicken garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and some lime wedges on the side.
6. Enjoy!
Pair your delicious grilled mango chicken with your favorite side dishes like rice, a fresh salad, or some grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the summer flavors!
This recipe yields juicy, flavorful grilled chicken with a delicious mango glaze that’s perfect for a quick and easy summer meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating. This ensures the marinade penetrates well and the chicken cooks evenly on the grill.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Fresh Mango?
No worries! You can substitute fresh mango with canned mango pulp. Just opt for one without added sugar for a more natural taste. You may also use frozen mango—just thaw and chop it before blending into the marinade.
How Can I Store Leftover Grilled Mango Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With Grilled Mango Chicken?
This grilled mango chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables or even wrapped in tacos for a delicious twist!
