Description
Honey Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender, marinated chicken breasts grilled, pan-seared, or baked to perfection and topped with a fresh, zesty mango salsa. This recipe combines sweet honey, tangy lime, and aromatic spices, making it an ideal light and refreshing meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Mango Salsa
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice and zest, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
- Prepare the Mango Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), and chopped cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir well. Allow the salsa to sit for 10 to 15 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
- Cook the Chicken: Choose one cooking method:
– Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
– Pan-Searing: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove and let rest before serving.
– Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken in a baking dish and bake 20-25 minutes until cooked through. Let rest a few minutes before slicing. - Assemble and Serve: Slice the rested chicken and arrange on a serving platter. Spoon generous portions of mango salsa over the top. Serve immediately alongside rice, quinoa, salad, or tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer (up to 12 hours) intensifies the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
- The jalapeño in the salsa is optional; omit for a milder dish or adjust quantity for preferred heat.
- If grilling outdoors isn’t an option, pan-searing or baking works just as well and yields delicious results.
- Mango salsa can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 1 day but is best enjoyed fresh.
- Serve with your favorite grain or fresh greens to balance the sweet and tangy flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: Honey Lime Chicken, Mango Salsa, Grilled Chicken, Summer Recipe, Healthy Chicken Meal, Fresh Mango Salsa, Easy Chicken Dinner
