Save Juicy chicken cooked in a vibrant sauce of ripe mango, honey, and chili, balanced with aromatic spices for a sweet and spicy flavor explosion perfect for a lively weeknight dinner.
I first served this recipe to my family and it quickly became a favorite for easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 600 g), 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
- Mango Sauce: 1 large ripe mango peeled and diced (about 1 cup), 2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp soy sauce (use gluten free if needed), 1½ tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 small red chili finely chopped (adjust to taste), 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped, 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional), Lime wedges to serve
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 3 4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a blender or food processor, combine mango, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, garlic, chili, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Pour the mango sauce into the same skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Step 5:
- Return chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon sauce over the chicken.
- Step 6:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 74°C / 165°F), flipping once and basting with sauce.
- Step 7:
- Remove chicken and let rest for 2 minutes. Slice and serve with sauce spooned over. Garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, and lime wedges.
Save This dish has become a beloved family dinner that brings everyone together at the table.
Notes
Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option; adjust cooking time as needed. Vegan option: Replace chicken with firm tofu and use agave instead of honey.
Required Tools
Large skillet with lid, blender or food processor, knife and cutting board, measuring spoons
Allergen Information
Contains soy (soy sauce). Sesame seeds may be an allergen if used. Ensure gluten free soy sauce if needed. Always double check ingredient labels for allergens.
Save This sweet and spicy mango chicken is sure to become a staple on your dinner rotation.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Sear the chicken breasts over medium-high heat to lock in moisture, then simmer gently in the sauce to finish cooking without drying out.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, increase or reduce the amount of red chili to suit your preferred heat level, or add red pepper flakes for extra kick.
- → What can I substitute for soy sauce to keep it gluten-free?
Use a certified gluten-free tamari or soy sauce alternative to maintain the depth of flavor while keeping the dish gluten-free.
- → Is there a plant-based alternative for this dish?
Yes, firm tofu can replace chicken and agave syrup can substitute honey for a vegan-friendly version with similar flavors.
- → What side dishes complement this main?
Steamed jasmine or coconut rice pairs wonderfully to balance the sweet and spicy sauce, enhancing the overall meal experience.