This Easy Grilled Mango Chicken is a tasty dish with sweet, juicy mangoes and tender chicken. It’s perfect for summer cookouts and brings sunshine to your plate!
Who doesn’t love a little sweetness in their meals? I like to serve it with rice or a fresh salad. The combo is simply delightful and makes my family smile! 🍗🥭
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are juicy and grill nicely. You can substitute them with chicken breast if you prefer, but keep an eye on cooking time, as they cook faster.
Mango: Fresh, ripe mango is key for flavor. If mango isn’t available, try peach or pineapple for a similar sweetness. Canned mango can work in a pinch, just drain it well.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a nice kick. You might use garlic powder if that’s what you have, but fresh is always better for this recipe.
Honey: Honey gives a sweet touch. You can use agave syrup or maple syrup if you want a different flavor or need a vegan option.
Lime Juice: It brings brightness to the dish. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice can be a good substitute.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken is proper marination and cooking. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes—longer if you can—to let the flavors soak in.
- When grilling, keep an eye on the temperature. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for safe and tender chicken.
- Baste the chicken with the reserved marinade during grilling. This adds moisture and flavor.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps it stay juicy as the juices redistribute.
Easy Grilled Mango Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (about half a lime)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. Including marinating time, plan for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how flavorful you want your chicken to be. You’ll have a delightful meal ready in under an hour, plus a little extra time for marinating!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, add the chopped mango, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, ginger, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy to create your flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and place them in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the mango marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Reserve the other half for basting and serving. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 1-2 hours for the best flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). To prevent the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil or use a grill spray.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and place it directly on the grill. Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Look for nice grill marks on each side, which is a sign it’s cooked perfectly!
5. Baste for Extra Flavor:
While grilling, don’t forget to baste the chicken occasionally with the reserved mango marinade. This adds moisture and keeps the chicken flavorful.
6. Serve It Up:
When the chicken is fully cooked, carefully transfer it to a serving plate. Drizzle some extra mango sauce from the reserving bowl over the top for added flavor.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish off by garnishing with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges on the side. Serve your delicious grilled mango chicken immediately alongside your favorite sides like steamed rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your juicy, sweet, and tangy Easy Grilled Mango Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Mango Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts, but be aware that they cook faster. Monitor the grilling time closely, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid drying them out.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Mango?
If fresh mango isn’t available, you can use canned mango (just drain it well) or substitute with peaches or pineapple for a similar sweetness. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a great way to deepen the flavors! Just be sure not to exceed 24 hours, as too long in the marinade can change the texture of the chicken.
How Should I Store Leftover Mango Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
