Welcome to this flavorful adventure where we combine the tropical sweetness of mangoes with the savory richness of grilled chicken. This Grilled Mango Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of juicy, tender chicken marinated in a vibrant mango sauce. Keep reading to discover how to create this culinary masterpiece that will surely impress your friends and family at your next BBQ!

What is Grilled Mango Chicken?
Grilled Mango Chicken is a delightful dish that features chicken thighs marinated in a blend of soy sauce, fresh mangoes, garlic, and ginger. The marinade infuses the chicken with a unique mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, resulting in a perfectly grilled piece of meat that is juicy on the inside and slightly charred on the outside. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or any time you want to bring a taste of the tropics to your table.
Ingredients List for Grilled Mango Chicken
- 2 lb. chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: These are preferred for their juiciness and flavor. They hold up well to grilling and absorb the marinade beautifully.
- ½ cup soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami base that balances the sweetness of the mango.
- 2 ripe mangos: Peeled and pitted, the mangoes add natural sweetness and a tropical flavor to the marinade.
- 3 garlic cloves: Fresh garlic gives the marinade a pungent depth.
- ½ teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds a slight spice and warmth to the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps blend the marinade ingredients smoothly.
- Cilantro for garnish: Optional, but adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color.
Ingredients List for Mango Marinade
- Soy Sauce: Essential for adding a rich, salty umami flavor.
- Fresh Mangoes: The star of the marinade, providing sweetness and a tropical aroma.
- Garlic: Enhances the savory aspect with its robust flavor.
- Fresh Ginger: Introduces a warm, spicy undertone.
- Water: Helps to achieve the right consistency for the marinade.
- Optional Cilantro: Adds freshness and a visual appeal when used as a garnish.
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken Breasts: If you prefer chicken breasts over thighs, you can use them but adjust the grilling time to ensure they don't dry out.
- Tamari or Coconut Aminos: For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Frozen Mango: If fresh mangoes are not available, you can use frozen mango chunks. Thaw them before blending.
- Additional Spices: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of lime juice to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Herbs: Swap cilantro with parsley or basil if you prefer different herbs.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow baking dish. Set aside.
- Make the Marinade: In a small blender or food processor, combine the soy sauce, peeled and pitted mangoes, garlic cloves, grated ginger, and water. Blend until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade for later. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken in the bag or dish. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to 8 hours.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to 400°F (200°C). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Brush with the reserved marinade and garnish with chopped cilantro, if using.
How to Cook Grilled Mango Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow baking dish. This makes it easy to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade.
Step 2: Making the Marinade
In a blender or food processor, combine the soy sauce, mangoes, garlic, ginger, and water. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. This mixture should be vibrant and aromatic.
Step 3: Marinating the Chicken
Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Reserve ¼ cup of this marinade to use later. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken thoroughly.
Step 4: Preheating the Grill
Heat your grill to a medium-high temperature of around 400°F. Proper preheating ensures the chicken cooks evenly and achieves those beautiful grill marks.
Step 5: Grilling the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place the thighs on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6: Serving the Chicken
Once grilled to perfection, place the chicken on a platter. Brush it with the reserved marinade for an extra layer of flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Marinade Time: For maximum flavor, don’t rush the marinating process. Allow at least 2 hours.
- Using High Heat: Too high heat can burn the outside before the inside is cooked. Medium-high heat is ideal.
- Overcrowding the Grill: Give each piece of chicken enough space to cook evenly.
- Not Checking Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Ignoring Rest Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain its juices.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Platter Presentation: Arrange the grilled chicken on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro. Add some lime wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.
- Accompaniments: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or coconut rice to complement the tropical flavors.
- Sauce on the Side: Offer extra marinade or a mango salsa on the side for dipping.
How to Serve Grilled Mango Chicken
Serve the Grilled Mango Chicken hot off the grill. It pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider adding grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. The sweet and savory chicken also goes well with a side of avocado slices or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Presentation Ideas for Grilled Mango Chicken
- Vibrant Plating: Use colorful plates to highlight the golden brown of the grilled chicken and the green cilantro garnish.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh herbs and a few mango slices on the side enhance the dish's visual appeal.
- Elegant Setting: Serve on a large white platter with a bed of lettuce or banana leaves for a tropical touch.
Grilled Mango Chicken Recipe Tips
- Choose Ripe Mangoes: Ensure your mangoes are ripe for the sweetest and most flavorful marinade.
- Uniform Chicken Pieces: Try to use chicken pieces of similar size for even cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to the correct temperature before adding the chicken.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on the chicken while grilling to prevent overcooking.
- Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to lock in the juices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? A: Yes, but adjust the grilling time as chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily.
Q: Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time? A: Absolutely. You can make the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Q: What if I don't have a grill? A: You can use a grill pan on the stove or broil the chicken in the oven as an alternative.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is done? A: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken? A: Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before grilling.
Conclusion
Grilled Mango Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the tropical sweetness of mangoes with the savory flavors of marinated chicken. With easy-to-follow steps and versatile options, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe will not disappoint. Try it out, and enjoy a taste of the tropics in every bite!
PrintGrilled Mango Chicken Recipe
Grilled Mango Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in a tropical blend of ripe mangoes, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This recipe highlights a sweet and savory balance, perfect for summer grilling. Garnish with cilantro for a fresh finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: 2 lb., boneless and skinless
- Soy Sauce: ½ cup
- Ripe Mangos: 2, peeled and pitted
- Garlic Cloves: 3
- Fresh Ginger: ½ teaspoon, grated
- Water: 2 tablespoons
- Cilantro: For garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: Blend soy sauce, mangoes, garlic, ginger, and water until smooth.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a bowl and pour marinade over them. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high.
- Grill Chicken: Grill chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
- Garnish: Optional, sprinkle cilantro over grilled chicken before serving.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Marinating for longer enhances the flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 960mg
Leave a Reply