Healthy Grilled Chicken With Mango Salsa

Name: Healthy Grilled Chicken With Mango Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced; Juice of 1 lime; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Ideas

I love making Healthy Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa for a quick weeknight dinner or when I have friends over. The bright flavors of fresh mango and lime perfectly complement the tender, juicy chicken. This recipe is so straightforward yet packed with flavor, making it a go-to in my kitchen. Plus, grilling the chicken not only enhances its taste, but it also keeps it lean and healthy. I can't wait for you to try this delightful dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:01:35.936Z

When I first tried grilled chicken paired with mango salsa, it was a game-changer for me. The combination of savory chicken and sweet, tangy mango creates a vibrant dish that truly excites the palate. I usually marinate the chicken to enhance its flavors, letting it soak in the herbs and spices which gives it a wonderful depth. Trust me, this method makes all the difference!

One of my favorite tips is to let the mango salsa sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a refreshing accompaniment to the chicken. I often add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor. You won't regret trying it this way!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy grilled chicken that's both healthy and satisfying
Vibrant mango salsa that adds a refreshing twist
Easy preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners
Versatile dish that pairs well with various sides

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing those delightful flavors into the meat. Use a zip-top bag or shallow dish to combine the marinade ingredients effectively. Ensure that the chicken breasts are fully coated for maximum flavor absorption. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes is essential, but if time permits, marinating for an hour or even overnight in the refrigerator will intensify the flavors even further.

When marinating, consider using a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This not only promotes more even cooking but also enhances their tenderness. After marinating, letting the chicken rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before grilling ensures a more consistent cook when it hits the grill.

Creating the Perfect Mango Salsa

The key to a vibrant mango salsa lies in using the freshest ingredients. Choose a ripe mango that yields slightly to gentle pressure for optimal sweetness. If a ripe mango isn't available, you can substitute with diced peaches or even nectarines for similar flavors. Remember to dice the ingredients into evenly sized pieces to achieve a balanced bite, and let the salsa sit for at least 10 minutes after mixing to allow the flavors time to meld together, resulting in a more harmonious taste.

For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting the jalapeño briefly before dicing. This brings out its smoky notes, which can elevate the salsa further. Additionally, if you prefer a milder salsa, feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your spice tolerance.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mango Salsa

1 ripe mango, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
Juice of 1 lime
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and let sit for at least 15 minutes.

Make the Mango Salsa

In another bowl, mix together diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and juices run clear.

Serve

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a generous scoop of mango salsa on top.

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, try marinating the chicken overnight. You can also swap the mango for pineapple or peaches in the salsa for a different twist!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover grilled chicken, it's best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, avoid using a microwave, as it can dry out the chicken. Instead, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth, covering it to create steam and maintain moisture.

The mango salsa can last in the refrigerator for about two days, but be aware that the texture will soften as it sits. For the best experience, consider making salsa fresh each time, as the contrast with the warm grilled chicken is truly delightful.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled chicken with mango salsa pairs beautifully with various sides. For a wholesome meal, consider serving it on a bed of quinoa or brown rice, both of which will absorb the delicious juices. Alternatively, for a lighter option, enjoy it with a mixed green salad drizzled with a lime vinaigrette.

For a fun twist, try serving the dish in taco form using soft corn tortillas. Add some avocado slices and crumbled queso fresco to enhance the flavors and create a delightful mix of textures. This makes for a great, interactive meal experience at gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw them and pat them dry before marinating.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with quinoa, brown rice, or a light salad.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa a few hours in advance for even better flavor!