Honey Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory. Juicy grilled or pan-seared chicken is marinated in a zesty honey-lime mixture and paired with a fresh, tropical mango salsa that adds a burst of color and flavor. This dish is ideal for summer meals, dinner parties, or healthy weeknight dinners.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken

chicken breasts or thighs
honey
lime juice
lime zest
olive oil
garlic (minced)
ground cumin
salt
black pepper

For the Mango Salsa

fresh mango (diced)
red onion (finely chopped)
red bell pepper (diced)
fresh cilantro (chopped)
lime juice
jalapeño (optional, minced)
salt

directions

In a bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Place the chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

While the chicken marinates, prepare the mango salsa by combining diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, jalapeño (if using), and salt in a bowl. Mix gently and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

Remove chicken from the marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the outside is golden and caramelized.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Top the sliced chicken with generous spoonfuls of mango salsa and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour (including minimum marinating)

Variations

Use pineapple or peach instead of mango for a different tropical flavor.
Add avocado to the salsa for creaminess.
Grill the chicken on skewers for a fun presentation.
Serve over rice or in tacos for a complete meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken and mango salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat the chicken, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
The salsa is best served fresh but can be kept chilled for up to 2 days.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs are juicy and flavorful—perfect for this recipe.

Is the mango salsa spicy?
Only if you add jalapeño. You can omit it for a milder version.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Absolutely—bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.

How ripe should the mango be?
Use ripe but firm mangoes for the best texture and sweetness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken and prep the salsa a few hours in advance, but cook and assemble just before serving for freshness.

What can I serve with this dish?
Rice, quinoa, tortillas, or a fresh salad all pair well.

Conclusion

Honey Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa is a mouthwatering combination of tangy, sweet, and fresh flavors that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just need a quick, healthy dinner, this dish offers a satisfying and vibrant option that’s both easy to make and full of flavor.

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