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This chipotle lime grilled chicken with mango salsa transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a vibrant, restaurant-worthy meal that balances smoky heat with tropical sweetness. The tender, flavorful chicken pairs perfectly with the fresh, colorful salsa for a dish that looks as impressive as it tastes.
I first made this recipe when craving something that reminded me of vacation during a particularly cold winter week. The bright flavors transported my family to a beachside restaurant, and now it's our go-to whenever we need a mood boost disguised as dinner.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: chosen for their lean protein and quick cooking time
- Chipotle chile in adobo sauce: delivers authentic smoky heat without being overwhelming
- Fresh lime juice: provides essential acidity that tenderizes the chicken and brightens all flavors
- Honey: balances the heat and helps create beautiful caramelization on the grill
- Fresh mango: should be ripe but still firm for the perfect salsa texture
- Red bell pepper: adds sweet crunch and beautiful color contrast
- Cilantro: brings a fresh herbal note that ties everything together
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine lime juice, olive oil, chopped chipotle, cilantro, honey, salt and pepper in a bowl and whisk thoroughly. Transfer to a freezer bag with chicken breasts and massage the marinade into every surface. Allow to marinate for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
- Prepare the Grill:
- Heat your grill to a medium high temperature of 400°F. Ensure grates are clean and spray with cooking oil to prevent sticking. This temperature gives perfect char while keeping the chicken juicy.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Place marinated chicken on the preheated grill, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Grill for 6 8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The sugars in the honey will create beautiful grill marks and caramelization.
- Make the Mango Salsa:
- While the chicken cooks, combine diced mango, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, salt and pepper in a bowl. Stir gently to preserve the texture of the ingredients. The salsa can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 4 hours.
- Rest and Serve:
- Allow the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep juices inside. Slice against the grain and top generously with the vibrant mango salsa.
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The chipotle peppers are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I once tried making it without them when I ran out, and while still good, it missed that distinctive smoky depth that makes this dish so addictive. My daughter now specifically asks for the chicken with the spicy sweet sauce.
Make Ahead Options
This recipe works beautifully for meal prep. The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance, developing even deeper flavor. For busy weeknights, I often prepare the mango salsa in the morning and refrigerate it covered. Just hold the cilantro and add it just before serving to maintain its bright color and flavor. The cooked chicken also reheats well for lunches throughout the week.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this vibrant dish with cilantro lime rice for a complete meal that captures all the flavors. For a lighter option, wrap the chicken and salsa in butter lettuce leaves for delicious low carb tacos. The sweet heat profile also pairs beautifully with a cold Mexican lager or a slightly sweet Riesling wine. For non alcoholic options, try a sparkling water with lime or a refreshing agua fresca.
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Adjusting the Heat Level
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. For those who prefer milder flavors, reduce the chipotle to half a pepper and remove the seeds before chopping. Conversely, heat lovers can add an extra chipotle pepper or include a pinch of cayenne in the marinade. The mango salsa naturally cools the palate, creating the perfect balance regardless of your spice preference. I always serve extra salsa on the side for those who want more of that sweet cooling effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make the chicken marinade?
Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chopped chipotle chile, cilantro, honey, salt, and pepper. Use this flavorful mixture to marinate the chicken.
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or, for even more flavor, overnight in the refrigerator.
- → What temperature should the grill be set to?
Preheat your grill to 400°F to achieve perfect grilling for the chicken.
- → How can I tell when the chicken is cooked through?
Grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- → What ingredients are in the mango salsa?
The mango salsa includes diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper for seasoning.