It’s that time of year again when the sun shines brighter, and the grill starts calling your name like an old friend at a backyard party. Picture this: juicy grilled chicken topped with a vibrant mango salsa that dances on your taste buds! That’s what you get with my Memorial Day Mango Salsa Chicken, a dish that not only pleases the palate but also brings smiles to faces as friends and family gather around the table.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I serve with Memorial Day Mango Salsa Chicken?
- How long do I need to marinate the chicken?
- Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me tell you about the first time I made this dish. It was a sunny afternoon; I was trying to impress my friends who thought I could only boil water (I swear I was just saving my culinary prowess for the right moment). The aroma wafting through the air as I grilled that chicken had everyone flocking to the patio like bees to honey. And trust me, it wasn’t just the mango salsa stealing the show—it was love at first bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients while packing a punch of flavor.
- The colorful mango salsa adds visual appeal and freshness to any meal.
- It’s incredibly versatile; serve it at casual gatherings or special occasions without breaking a sweat.
- Perfect for summertime barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.
I remember watching my friends’ faces light up as they took their first bites, each one eager to know my secret. Spoiler alert: there is no secret; it’s all about fresh ingredients and a bit of enthusiasm!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 3-4 pieces depending on how many guests you’re feeding; they grill beautifully.
- Fresh Mangos: Look for ripe mangos that give slightly when pressed; they’ll add sweetness.
- Red Onion: Adds crunch and flavor; choose one that’s firm and aromatic.
- Fresh Cilantro: A handful chopped will elevate your salsa with its fresh herbaceous notes.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens everything up; bottled just won’t do!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance flavors—don’t skip them!
- Olive Oil: A drizzle keeps your chicken moist and adds richness.
For the Spice Rub:
- Cumin Powder: Just a teaspoon adds warmth and depth to your chicken.
- Chili Powder: Adds a hint of heat without overwhelming the dish.
- Garlic Powder: For that aromatic kick—always a winner in any savory dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your grill over medium-high heat so it’s ready for action. While waiting for it to reach grilling glory, let’s get our chicken ready.
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, cumin powder, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat each chicken breast generously in this marinade for maximum flavor.
Grill the Chicken: Place marinated chicken on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). You want those lovely grill marks!
Prepare Mango Salsa: Meanwhile, chop ripe mangos into small cubes along with red onion and cilantro. Toss them in a bowl with freshly squeezed lime juice—a glorious combination that smells heavenly!
Combine & Serve: Once cooked, let your chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing (this is crucial!). Top each piece generously with mango salsa; let those vibrant colors shine!
Enjoy: Take a moment to admire your creation before diving in—this is where you savor not only the flavors but also the memories being made around your table.
I can hear you asking already—can leftovers be reheated? Absolutely! Slice leftover chicken cold over salads or warm in wraps. With this versatile recipe in hand, you’re guaranteed delightful meals all week long!
So go ahead! Fire up that grill this Memorial Day or any other sunny day because nothing says summertime quite like my Memorial Day Mango Salsa Chicken! Your taste buds will thank you…and so will your friends!
You Must Know
- This Memorial Day Mango Salsa Chicken will delight your taste buds and impress your friends.
- The sweetness of mango combined with zesty lime makes this dish a colorful celebration of summer.
- Plus, it’s easy to whip up, so you can focus on enjoying the holiday.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken while you prepare the mango salsa. Grill the chicken to juicy perfection before serving it with the fresh salsa.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out mango for pineapple or add jalapeños for a spicy kick. Customize flavors based on your preference!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken tender.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a juicy chicken, marinate for at least 30 minutes; overnight is even better!
- Use fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor boost.
- Make sure your grill is hot enough to get those beautiful grill marks.
Memorial Day picnics are always fun, but when I served this dish last year, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it!
FAQ
What can I serve with Memorial Day Mango Salsa Chicken?
Serve it with rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How long do I need to marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor and tenderness.
Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen mango works well and saves time; just thaw and chop before using.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Memorial Day Mango Salsa Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Memorial Day Mango Salsa Chicken offers a refreshing twist to your summer gatherings with succulent grilled chicken topped with vibrant mango salsa. It’s a feast for the senses!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe mangos, diced
- 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, cumin powder, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat each chicken breast with the marinade.
- Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- While grilling, combine diced mangos, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in another bowl.
- After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving topped with mango salsa.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor; overnight is ideal.
- Feel free to substitute mango with pineapple for a different twist or add jalapeños for heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg