If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor, honey lime chicken with mango salsa is a must-try! This recipe perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory elements, creating a refreshing and satisfying meal. The chicken is marinated in a rich honey-lime sauce, then grilled or pan-fried to perfection, while the mango salsa adds a juicy, tropical twist. Whether you’re cooking for a summer BBQ, a family dinner, or a meal prep plan, this dish will impress with its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients.

Ingredients Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa

For the Honey Lime Chicken

• Chicken breasts or thighs – Provides a juicy and tender base for the dish.
• Honey – Adds natural sweetness and caramelization when cooked.
• Lime juice & zest – Brightens the flavor with a fresh, citrusy tang.
• Garlic (minced) – Enhances the depth of flavor.
• Olive oil – Helps infuse flavors and prevents the chicken from drying out.
• Soy sauce – Adds umami richness and a hint of saltiness.
• Cumin & paprika – Contribute to a warm, smoky flavor.
• Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning.

For the Mango Salsa

• Ripe mango (diced) – The star ingredient, offering a juicy, sweet bite.
• Red bell pepper (chopped) – Adds crunch and a mild sweetness.
• Red onion (finely chopped) – Provides a sharp, slightly spicy contrast.
• Jalapeño (minced, optional) – Gives a bit of heat for those who like spice.
• Cilantro (chopped) – Brings freshness and brightness to the salsa.
• Lime juice – Enhances the fruity flavors and prevents oxidation.
• Salt & black pepper – Balances the overall taste.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

Marination is crucial to ensuring the chicken absorbs all the flavors. Here’s how to do it:

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, zest, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it.
3. Massage the marinade into the chicken and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (for best results, marinate overnight).

Cooking the Chicken

You can cook the chicken in different ways:

• Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked.
• Pan-frying: Heat a skillet with a little olive oil and cook the chicken over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side.
• Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Preparing the Mango Salsa

While the chicken cooks, prepare the mango salsa:

1. Dice the mango, red bell pepper, and red onion into small pieces.
2. Mince the jalapeño if you like some heat.
3. Chop fresh cilantro and mix everything in a bowl.
4. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salsa and season with salt and black pepper.
5. Mix well and let it sit for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the chicken topped with mango salsa and a side of cilantro-lime rice or quinoa.
• Pair with roasted veggies like asparagus or zucchini.
• Enjoy with a chilled margarita or a tropical smoothie for a complete experience.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

• Honey: Natural antioxidant with antibacterial properties.
• Lime: High in vitamin C, boosts immunity.
• Chicken: Lean protein source for muscle growth.
• Mango: Rich in vitamins A & C, good for digestion.

Variations and Substitutes

• Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood option.
• Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey for a vegan alternative.
• Replace cilantro with parsley if you dislike the taste.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

• Don’t overcook the chicken—use a thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) internal temperature.
• Adjust the salsa’s spice level by increasing or omitting jalapeños.
• Let the salsa sit for at least 10 minutes before serving for maximum flavor infusion.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Store chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat chicken in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes to maintain moisture.
• Do not freeze mango salsa, as it will become watery upon thawing.

Conclusion Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa

Honey lime chicken with mango salsa is a refreshing, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of juicy, tangy chicken with the sweet and spicy salsa creates a balance that’s both satisfying and healthy. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to tweak it to your taste preferences!

FAQs Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa

1. Can I use frozen mango for the salsa?
   Yes, but thaw and drain it first to avoid excess moisture.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
   At least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for deeper flavor.
3. What can I use instead of honey?
   Maple syrup or agave syrup works as a great substitute.
4. Can I prepare the salsa in advance?
   Yes, but consume within 24 hours for the freshest taste.
5. Is this recipe spicy?
   It depends! Jalapeños add spice, but you can omit them for a milder taste.

Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa Recipe

This Honey Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa is the perfect fusion of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The honey-lime marinade gives the chicken a juicy, tender texture, while the mango salsa adds a burst of tropical freshness with every bite. With bright flavors and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for a quick dinner or a show-stopping summer meal. Whether served with rice, salad, or veggies, this vibrant dish is sure to impress

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course dinner, Healthy recipe, lunch

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Servings 4

Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing Bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Tongs or spatula

Ingredients

  

For the Lime Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 2 limes
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mango Salsa:

• 2 ripe mangoes peeled and diced
• 1/2 red onion finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Chicken:
• In a small bowl, combine the lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
• Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
• Make the Mango Salsa:
• In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
• Cook the Chicken:
• Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
• Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is fully cooked.
• Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Assemble the Dish:
• Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips or serve whole. Top each chicken breast with a generous spoonful of mango salsa.
• Serve with your choice of rice, salad, or vegetables.

Notes

Tips:

• You can also cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat if you don’t have a grill.
• For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken for a longer period (up to 2 hours).
• The mango salsa can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 hours before serving.

 

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Keyword Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa Recipe

Enjoy!

This Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa is a refreshing and light dish, perfect for any occasion!