Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa

Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa is a vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. This delightful recipe combines succulent chicken marinated in zesty lime and cilantro, paired with a refreshing mango salsa. It’s not only bursting with flavor but is also easy to prepare, making it suitable for various occasions from casual BBQs to festive feasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is quick to whip up, even on busy nights.
• Bursting with Flavor – The combination of lime, cilantro, and fresh mango creates a mouthwatering taste that will impress your family and friends.
• Healthy Ingredients – Packed with lean protein and fresh produce, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve it over coconut rice, in tacos, or as a salad topper for endless meal possibilities.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before jumping into the cooking process, gather your tools for smooth preparation. Having the right equipment makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife set
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan – A must-have for achieving that delicious charred flavor on the chicken.
• Mixing bowls – Essential for marinating the chicken and combining ingredients for salsa.
• Whisk – Perfect for blending marinades smoothly without any lumps.
• Knife set – A good knife ensures clean cuts when preparing fresh vegetables and fruits.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 4 Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 teaspoon Lime Zest
• 3/4 Cup Orange Juice
• 1/3 Cup Lime Juice
• 1/2 Cup Canola Oil
• 1 1/2 Tablespoons Honey
• 1 teaspoon Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Coriander
• 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
• 2 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 Cup Cilantro (chopped)

For the Mango Salsa

• 1 Cucumber (peeled, seeded and diced)
• 1 Large Mango (peeled and diced)
• 1 Small Avocado (diced)
• 1/2 Jalapeno (seeded and minced)
• 1/4 Cup Red Pepper (diced)
• 1/4 Cup Red Onion (diced)
• 1 1/2 Limes (juiced)
• 1 Tablespoons Sugar
• 1 Tablespoon White Vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon Canola Oil
• 1/3 Cup Cilantro (chopped)

For Serving

• Coconut Rice

How to Make Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine lime zest, orange juice, lime juice, canola oil, honey, cumin, chili powder, coriander, soy sauce, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro. Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the boneless chicken breasts to the marinade. Ensure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Prepare the Mango Salsa

While the chicken marinates, prepare your mango salsa. In a separate bowl, combine diced cucumber, mango, avocado, minced jalapeno, red pepper, red onion, lime juice from one lime, sugar, white vinegar, canola oil, and chopped cilantro. Mix gently to combine all ingredients without mashing them.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and discard leftover marinade. Grill chicken breasts for about 6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through with nice grill marks.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Once grilled to perfection, serve your cilantro lime chicken hot over coconut rice topped with a generous helping of mango salsa. Enjoy this bright dish that delights every palate!

How to Serve Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa

To elevate your dining experience with Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa, consider creative serving ideas. These suggestions will help you showcase the vibrant flavors of this dish while adding a delightful touch to your meal.

Fresh Salad Pairing

• A light garden salad with mixed greens complements the chicken’s zestiness and adds a refreshing crunch.

Coconut Rice Foundation

• Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy coconut rice. The rice absorbs the juices from the chicken and salsa, enhancing every bite.

Tacos or Wraps

• Create delicious tacos or wraps using soft tortillas. Fill them with sliced chicken, mango salsa, and extra cilantro for a portable meal.

Appetizer Platter

• Slice the grilled chicken into strips and arrange it on a platter with mango salsa as a dip. This makes for an appealing appetizer at gatherings.

Tropical Fruit Garnish

• Add slices of lime or additional diced mango around the plate for a vibrant presentation that brings out the tropical flavors.

Squeeze of Lime

• A final squeeze of lime juice over the dish just before serving brightens the flavors and adds an extra citrus kick.

How to Perfect Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa

Perfecting your Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours. This enhances flavor depth and keeps the meat juicy.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before cooking. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro, ripe mangoes, and fresh limes make all the difference in flavor. Quality ingredients lead to a better overall dish.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Grill the chicken for about 6 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to dryness, so keep an eye on it.
• Rest After Cooking: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute within the meat.
• Customize Salsa Ingredients: Feel free to adjust salsa components based on personal taste—add more jalapeno for heat or extra lime juice for tartness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa

Complementing your Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some top choices you might consider:

1. Coconut Rice
   Fluffy rice cooked with coconut milk offers sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes like grilled chicken.
2. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables adds texture and nutrition while balancing flavors.
3. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn grilled alongside your chicken provide vibrant color and taste.
4. Black Bean Salad
   A refreshing black bean salad with lime dressing is protein-rich and adds a delightful contrast to your meal.
5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn grilled until slightly charred brings a summer feel to your table that complements tropical flavors beautifully.
6. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread can serve as an excellent vehicle for scooping up any leftover mango salsa!
7. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crunchy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that pairs nicely with the spicy notes of the dish.
8. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage, carrots, and lime dressing provides freshness that enhances each bite of chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid over-marinating the chicken. Marinating for too long can make your chicken mushy. Stick to the recommended 120 minutes for optimal flavor and texture.
• Watch out for inaccurate measurements. Using too much or too little of an ingredient can throw off the balance of flavors. Always measure carefully, especially with potent ingredients like lime juice and spices.
• Don’t skip on resting the chicken after grilling. Allowing it to rest for a few minutes helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken juicier. Let it sit covered for about 5 minutes before slicing.
• Be cautious of using unripe mangoes. A ripe mango adds sweetness and enhances the salsa flavor. Always choose ripe, fragrant mangoes for the best results.
• Avoid skimping on garnishes. Fresh cilantro and lime juice elevate your dish’s presentation and flavor profile. Use ample garnishes for a vibrant look.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa.

What is Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa?

Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa is a flavorful dish featuring marinated grilled chicken served with fresh mango salsa, combining savory and sweet elements.

How do I make the mango salsa?

To make the mango salsa, combine diced mango, cucumber, avocado, jalapeno, red pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, sugar, and vinegar in a bowl. Mix well.

Can I use other fruits in the salsa?

Yes! Feel free to substitute or add fruits like pineapple or peaches for a unique twist on your salsa.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can customize this recipe by adjusting spice levels or adding different herbs like mint or basil for added freshness in the salsa.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa is not only delicious but versatile as well. This dish makes a great centerpiece for any meal while allowing room for personalization with different salsas or sides. Give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken and Mango Salsa is a refreshing, vibrant dish that brings the flavors of summer right to your table. This recipe features tender chicken marinated in zesty lime and cilantro, grilled to perfection, and served alongside a sweet and tangy mango salsa. Ideal for casual gatherings or simple weeknight dinners, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition. Pair it with fluffy coconut rice or serve it in tacos for a delightful meal that bursts with flavor.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon Lime Zest
• 3/4 Cup Orange Juice
• 1/3 Cup Lime Juice
• 1/2 Cup Canola Oil
• 1 1/2 Tablespoons Honey
• 1 teaspoon Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Coriander
• 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
• 2 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 Cup Cilantro (chopped)
• 1 Cucumber (peeled, seeded and diced)
• 1 Large Mango (peeled and diced)
• 1 Small Avocado (diced)
• 1/2 Jalapeno (seeded and minced)
• 1/4 Cup Red Pepper (diced)
• 1/4 Cup Red Onion (diced)
• 1 1/2 Limes (juiced)
• 1 Tablespoon Sugar
• 1 Tablespoon White Vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon Canola Oil
• 1/3 Cup Cilantro (chopped)
• Coconut Rice

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together lime zest, orange juice, lime juice, canola oil, honey, cumin, chili powder, coriander, soy sauce, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
3. While the chicken marinates, prepare the mango salsa by mixing diced cucumber, mango, avocado, jalapeno, red pepper, red onion, lime juice from one lime, sugar, white vinegar, canola oil, and cilantro in a separate bowl.
4. Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for about 6 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
5. Serve the grilled chicken hot over coconut rice topped with mango salsa.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with salsa (200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 85mg