Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of flavor in every bite! Our Southwest Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa is not just a meal; it's an experience that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of the Southwest. This dish combines perfectly grilled chicken with a refreshing mango salsa that will leave you craving more. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 35 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive in and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with color and flavor!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the breasts dry with paper towels to ensure even seasoning and better grill marks.
- In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to create a dry rub seasoning.
- Evenly coat both sides of the chicken breasts with the spice mixture, pressing gently to help the seasoning adhere.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F), ensuring grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- While the grill heats, prepare the mango salsa by combining diced mango, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, lime juice, and chopped cilantro in a medium bowl. Gently mix and set aside to let flavors meld.
- Place chicken breasts on the hot grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side, without moving, to develop nice grill marks and seal in juices.
- Flip the chicken and cook an additional 5-6 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which ensures moist meat.
- Plate the grilled chicken and generously top with fresh mango salsa, garnishing with extra cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately, optionally with side dishes like cilantro-lime rice or grilled vegetables to complement the southwestern flavors.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the mango salsa ahead of time and let it chill in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in the spice mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before grilling. This will infuse the chicken with the spices and make it even more delicious.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This guarantees juicy, tender chicken every time.
- Grill Marks Matter: Avoid moving the chicken around too much while it’s grilling. Letting it sit on one side for 6-7 minutes will help you achieve those beautiful grill marks and seal in the juices.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Southwest Grilled Chicken with cilantro-lime rice or grilled vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that complements the bold flavors of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
