This Easy Grilled Mango Chicken is a bright and tasty dish! Juicy chicken is marinated in a sweet mango sauce, making it perfect for any summer barbecue.
The mango adds a fun tropical twist that’s hard to resist. I love serving it with rice or a fresh salad—it’s a hit every time! Who knew dinner could be this easy and delicious? 🍗🥭
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily, so watch the cooking time!
Mango: Fresh ripe mango is the star of the marinade, bringing sweetness. If mango isn’t in season, use canned mango puree, but check for added sugars. Frozen mango chunks can also work well.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and thickness to the marinade. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar is a great substitute.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brings brightness. Bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh is always better for flavor.
Soy Sauce: This adds a savory depth. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. If you avoid soy, coconut aminos make a great alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
Keeping chicken juicy is all about marinating correctly and grilling at the right temperature. Here’s how:
- Always marinate for at least an hour, but longer is better—2-3 hours is ideal to soak in flavors!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill will sear the chicken quickly, locking in moisture.
- Grill for about 5-6 minutes per side without moving the chicken too much, allowing those nice grill marks to form.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is the perfect temperature for juicy chicken.
Perfectly grilled chicken will be tender and flavorful every time! Enjoy!
Easy Grilled Mango Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, peeled and grated (about 1 teaspoon)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for grilling
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1-3 hours for marinating. Once marinated, grilling takes about 10-12 minutes. Overall, you can expect around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 3 hours before enjoying your delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mango Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, combine the diced mango, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, black pepper, salt, and olive oil. Blend until everything is smooth. This bright, sweet sauce will coat your chicken perfectly!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the mango marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. Keep the other half of the marinade for later. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate it for at least an hour — 2-3 hours is even better for flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates. This will help your chicken get those beautiful grill marks!
4. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to grill, remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Remember to brush with the reserved mango marinade while grilling for extra flavor! Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is fully grilled, transfer it to a serving plate. If you like, drizzle some extra mango marinade over the top for more flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side.
6. Pairing Suggestions:
This grilled mango chicken is delicious when served with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a bright, colorful meal. Enjoy the tropical flavors!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Mango Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken breasts! Keep in mind that they may require a bit less cooking time, so check the internal temperature and remove them from the grill as soon as they reach 165°F (74°C) to avoid dryness.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mango marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it to marinate the chicken.
What Can I Serve with This Chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. It also complements grilled vegetables exceptionally well, adding a nice balance of flavors and textures to your meal!
