Name: Mango Chicken Salad: Sunny, 5-Star Tropical Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken pieces (white, dark, or a mix); 1 cup pineapple juice; 1/4 cup packed brown sugar; 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce; 1 medium can pineapple chunks (optional); 1 small Vidalia onion, chopped (optional); Chunks of green pepper (optional)

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Mango chicken salad has a way of transporting me straight to a sunny beach with every bite. I remember the first time I tried a truly tropical mango chicken salad; it was at a little seaside cafe, and the sweet, juicy mango paired with perfectly grilled chicken was pure magic. It tasted like a vacation! This easy mango chicken salad recipe brings that same vibrant, refreshing flavor right to your kitchen, perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Get ready for a burst of sunshine in every mouthful – let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Mango Chicken Salad

This isn’t just any chicken salad; it’s a taste of paradise! You’ll adore this mango chicken salad recipe because it’s incredibly refreshing and bursting with tropical flavors. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover grilled chicken or to prepare a healthy meal prep option.

Incredibly Refreshing: The combination of sweet mango and savory chicken is a delightful contrast.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This quick mango chicken salad is ideal for lunches throughout the week.
Healthy and Light: Packed with protein and fresh fruit, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
Versatile: Enjoy it in a sandwich, over greens, or as a standalone dish.
Easy to Make: Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is straightforward.
Vibrant Flavors: It’s a truly tropical mango chicken salad experience.
Customizable: Easily adjust the sweetness or add a little spice to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Mango Chicken Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful chicken salad with mango:

2 lbs chicken pieces – I like to use a mix of white and dark meat for the best flavor and tenderness in this easy mango chicken salad.
1 cup pineapple juice – This is key for a tender, flavorful marinade. Freshly squeezed is my favorite!
1/4 cup packed brown sugar – Just enough to balance the soy sauce and create a lovely glaze on the chicken.
1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce – Adds that essential savory depth to our marinade.
1 medium can pineapple chunks (optional) – These add little bursts of juicy sweetness when grilled alongside the chicken.
1 small Vidalia onion, chopped (optional) – Grilling them brings out a wonderful sweetness that complements the other ingredients.
Chunks of green pepper (optional) – For a slight crispness and a pop of color.

How to Make Mango Chicken Salad

Crafting this vibrant mango chicken salad recipe is a breeze! You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this delicious meal. Follow these simple steps for a taste of the tropics.

Step 1: Begin by preparing your chicken. Take 2 lbs of chicken pieces, and I find a mix of white and dark meat works wonderfully for the best flavor and tenderness in this easy mango chicken salad. Make sure all the pieces are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Now, let’s create that irresistible marinade. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of pineapple juice, 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar, and 1/3 cup of low sodium soy sauce. Keep whisking until the brown sugar is completely dissolved. The aroma starts to get really inviting here!
Step 3: It’s time to marinate the chicken! Submerge all your chicken chunks into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl tightly and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, to let those flavors really soak in.
Step 4: While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for that perfect sear.
Step 5: Carefully place the marinated chicken chunks onto the hot grill grates. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes per side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and that they’re cooked all the way through – the smell is incredible!
Step 6: If you’re adding the optional ingredients, now’s the time to grill them too! Toss your pineapple chunks, chopped Vidalia onion, and green pepper onto the grill alongside the chicken. Grill until they have nice char marks and are tender-crisp.
Step 7: Once everything is grilled to perfection, it’s time to assemble your fresh mango chicken salad. Combine the grilled chicken pieces with your favorite salad greens. Add plenty of diced fresh mango, and any other delicious salad elements you love.

Marinade and Chicken Preparation

The heart of this mango chicken salad recipe lies in its flavorful marinade. Combine 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/3 cup soy sauce. Submerge your 2 lbs of chicken pieces completely. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour for tender, juicy results.

Grilling the Chicken and Optional Ingredients

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. If using, grill pineapple chunks, Vidalia onion, and green pepper alongside the chicken until tender-crisp and slightly charred.

Assembling Your Fresh Mango Chicken Salad

Once your grilled chicken and optional ingredients are ready, it’s time to build your salad. Toss the warm grilled chicken pieces with crisp salad greens. Add generous chunks of ripe, sweet mango. This creates the foundation for a truly delightful and tropical mango chicken salad experience.

Pro Tips for the Best Mango Chicken Salad

Want to elevate your mango chicken salad game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. These tips ensure your salad is always a hit!

Always use ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor and texture. Underripe mangoes can be tart and hard.
Don’t overcook the chicken on the grill! It should be juicy and tender, not dry.
For a creamy mango chicken salad, try adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a light vinaigrette instead of a heavy dressing.
Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. A little extra lime juice or a pinch of salt can make all the difference.

What’s the secret to perfect Mango Chicken Salad?

The real secret to a perfect mango chicken salad is balancing the sweet, savory, and fresh elements. Grilling the chicken with a sweet and savory marinade, then pairing it with juicy mango and crisp greens, creates a symphony of flavors and textures. For more ideas on creating balanced flavor profiles, check out these breakfast bowl recipes with eggs.

Can I make Mango Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Grill the chicken and let it cool completely. Store the grilled chicken and diced mango separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and prevent wilting.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mango Chicken Salad?

A common pitfall is using underripe mangoes, which can make the salad tart. Another mistake is overcooking the chicken, leading to a dry salad. Always ensure your ingredients are fresh and well-balanced for the most delicious outcome. For more tips on ingredient selection, you might find this guide on homemade ice cream recipe helpful in understanding ingredient quality.

Best Ways to Serve Mango Chicken Salad

This versatile mango chicken salad is fantastic served in so many ways! For a light and healthy lunch, pile it high on a bed of mixed greens or romaine lettuce. It makes a wonderful mango chicken salad bowl, especially with some toasted almonds or a sprinkle of cilantro. If you’re craving a sandwich, spoon this delicious salad between two slices of toasted whole-wheat bread, perhaps with a smear of avocado. It also pairs beautifully with a side of black beans or sweet potato fries for a more substantial meal. For a complete meal experience, consider trying a power bowl.

Nutrition Facts for Mango Chicken Salad

When you prepare this delightful mango chicken salad, you’re in for a treat that’s as good for you as it is delicious. This recipe offers a fantastic balance of nutrients, making it a satisfying and healthy choice. Remember that these values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use. For more information on healthy eating, you can explore resources on nutrition.gov.

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 450mg
Cholesterol: 90mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Mango Chicken Salad

Properly storing your delicious mango chicken salad is key to keeping it fresh and safe to enjoy. Once your grilled chicken and salad components have cooled completely, transfer them to airtight containers. For the best quality, store the salad in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’ve grilled extra chicken, you can freeze it separately for up to three months – just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before using it in a quick mango chicken salad.

When it’s time to reheat, gently warm the chicken if desired, or enjoy the salad cold. For a healthy mango chicken salad, simply combine the cooled components right before serving. Avoid reheating the entire salad, as this can make the greens wilt and the mango mushy. Remember to label and date all your containers for easy tracking!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mango Chicken Salad

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this mango chicken salad recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just shred or dice the chicken and proceed with the recipe. It’s a great way to make an easy mango chicken salad even quicker. For other quick meal ideas, consider these cranberry feta pinwheels.

What kind of mango is best for mango chicken salad?

For the best flavor and texture, I always opt for ripe, sweet mangoes like Ataulfo (Manila) or Kent. They are less fibrous and have a wonderful creamy texture that blends beautifully. Avoid underripe mangoes, as they can be tart and hard, affecting the overall taste of your tropical mango chicken salad.

How can I make this mango chicken salad spicier?

If you love a little heat, adding some finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the salad is a great option. You could also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or toss in a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce when assembling. This turns it into a delicious spicy mango chicken salad!

What are some good additions to a mango chicken salad bowl?

To make a more substantial mango chicken salad bowl, consider adding ingredients like quinoa, black beans, avocado, corn, or toasted nuts like cashews or slivered almonds. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or mint also adds a lovely freshness that complements the mango and chicken. You might also enjoy these baby lemon impossible pies for a sweet treat.

Variations of Mango Chicken Salad You Can Try

This mango chicken salad is so adaptable, you can truly make it your own! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try a mango chicken salad no mayo version by using plain Greek yogurt or avocado as a creamy base instead of mayonnaise. For a different cooking method, you can bake or pan-sear the chicken if grilling isn’t an option, creating a wonderfully tender base for your salad. For other creative dishes, explore our mini citrus cloud bites.

Want to explore new flavors? Consider a Thai mango chicken salad by adding a touch of fish sauce, lime juice, and chopped peanuts for an authentic Southeast Asian twist. You can also amp up the heat with thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to create a delightful spicy mango chicken salad. These variations ensure you always have a fresh and exciting way to enjoy this tropical delight!