This grilled mango chicken is a tasty treat that combines sweet mango with juicy chicken. It’s perfect for a summer meal or any joyful gathering with friends!
The sweet glaze from the mango just makes the chicken so special! I sometimes add extra mango slices for a fun touch. Who can say no to more fruit, right? 🍗🥭
Making this dish is easy! Just marinate the chicken, grill it up, and serve with a fresh salad or rice. It’s a simple way to impress everyone with your cooking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are great for this recipe as they stay juicy on the grill. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out if overcooked. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, use thick slices of firm tofu.
Mango: Use a ripe mango for the best flavor. If mango isn’t available, consider using pineapple or peaches as a substitute. They will still give you that delicious sweetness and acidity that’s key to this dish.
Mango Juice: If you can’t find mango juice, pineapple juice or orange juice works well too. They will keep that fruity essence intact while adding a different twist to the marinade.
Honey: For a vegan option, you can substitute honey with agave nectar or maple syrup. This way, you can maintain the sweetness without the animal products.
Cilantro: If cilantro isn’t your flavor, parsley can serve as a fresh garnish instead. You can also skip it altogether if you’re not a fan!
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with the right tricks, you can achieve the best results. Here’s how to ensure your chicken comes out juicy and flavorful every time:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2 hours. This helps to infuse flavors and tenderize the meat.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. If it’s too cool, the chicken won’t sear properly.
- Cook the chicken for about 7-8 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after grilling for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices inside the meat.
How to Make Grilled Mango Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup mango juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tbsp juice)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. If you can, let the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours for better flavor. Cooking on the grill will take about 15-20 minutes. Total time will be around 1 hour, depending on marinading time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the mango juice, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt. Stir well until everything is combined. This marinade will give the chicken lots of yummy flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and place them in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for the best flavor, aim for 2 hours!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat while the chicken is marinating. This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook the chicken.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is ready, take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any extra drip off. Discard the remaining marinade—it’s best not to reuse it. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You want those beautiful grill marks!
5. Add the Mango:
With a couple of minutes left on the grill, throw the diced mango onto the grill. Let it cook for a few minutes until it caramelizes slightly. This brings out the sweetness of the mango and adds a tasty topping for your chicken.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Then, slice the chicken and serve it topped with the grilled mango. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top and serve lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Mango Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind they may cook slightly faster. Monitor their internal temperature and aim for 165°F (75°C). You might also want to marinate them for a bit shorter time, around 30-60 minutes, to keep them juicy.
What If I Don’t Have Mango Juice?
No worries! You can substitute mango juice with orange juice or pineapple juice for a different but still delicious flavor. Just be aware that the taste will vary slightly. You can also blend fresh mango with a bit of water to create your own juice.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Mango Chicken?
After it cools, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring not to overcook and dry it out.
Can This Recipe Be Made on a Grill Pan Indoors?
Yes, certainly! If you’re using a grill pan, preheat it on medium-high heat and follow the same cooking times. Just make sure to keep an eye on the chicken and adjust cooking times based on how your stove heats. Enjoy the grilled flavor even indoors!
