If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a tropical escape in every bite, this Coconut Mango Chicken is it! Juicy, tender chicken simmered in a creamy coconut and mango sauce with just the right balance of sweetness and spice—this dish is a total flavor bomb. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Trust me, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple steps.
- Tropical & Flavorful: Sweet mango, creamy coconut, and savory chicken come together beautifully.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor!
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add veggies, or swap proteins to suit your taste.
Ingredients in Coconut Mango Chicken
Here’s what makes this dish shine:
Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The juicy protein base that soaks up all the incredible flavors.
Mango Puree: Brings natural sweetness and a silky texture to the sauce.
Coconut Milk: Adds a rich, creamy, and slightly nutty flavor.
Garlic & Ginger: The ultimate flavor duo for depth and warmth.
Lime Juice: A little acidity to balance out the sweetness.
Soy Sauce or Fish Sauce: A touch of umami to enhance the flavors.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Optional, but it helps bring out the mango’s natural sweetness.
Red Pepper Flakes or Chili Powder: For a bit of heat—totally adjustable!
Cilantro & Green Onions: Fresh herbs that bring brightness and a pop of color.
Instructions
Let’s bring this tropical masterpiece to life:
Sear the Chicken: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Stir in mango puree, coconut milk, lime juice, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer & Combine: Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and let it simmer until cooked through. The sauce will thicken beautifully.
Taste & Adjust: Add more seasoning, spice, or lime juice as needed.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and green onions, then serve over rice or quinoa.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: 320
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Coconut Mango Chicken
- Over Rice: The sauce pairs perfectly with jasmine or coconut rice.
- With Quinoa: A great protein-packed alternative to rice.
- With Roasted Veggies: Serve with broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots for extra nutrients.
- As a Taco Filling: Shred the chicken and use it in tacos for a tropical twist!
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh or Frozen Mango: Both work! If using frozen, thaw before blending.
- Make it Spicier: Add extra chili flakes or a fresh chopped chili.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry.
- Store Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Absolutely! Thighs add even more juiciness.
Q2: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A2: It already is! Coconut milk keeps it creamy without dairy.
Q3: What’s the best mango to use?
A3: Ataulfo or ripe mangoes work best for a naturally sweet flavor.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Q5: Can I use canned mango puree?
A5: Yes, just make sure it’s 100% mango with no added sugar.
Q6: How do I reheat leftovers?
A6: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts.
Q7: Can I add veggies to the sauce?
A7: Definitely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach would be great additions.
Q8: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A8: Yes! Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas.
Q9: What if my sauce is too sweet?
A9: Add extra lime juice or a dash of soy sauce to balance it out.
Q10: Can I make this ahead of time?
A10: Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!
Final Thoughts
This Coconut Mango Chicken is tropical, comforting, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special to impress, this dish won’t disappoint. Give it a try and let me know how you love to serve it!
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Coconut Mango Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Description
This Chicken in Coconut Mango Verde Sauce is a delicious fusion of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors! Juicy pan-seared chicken is simmered in a creamy coconut sauce with mango, tomatillos, and fresh herbs for a unique dish packed with vibrant, tropical flavors. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or roasted veggies for a satisfying meal!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, sliced into thin cutlets
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup mango, diced
- 1/2 cup tomatillos, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional for heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle chicken cutlets with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cumin on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add garlic, tomatillos, and jalapeño. Sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
- Blend: Transfer the tomatillo mixture to a blender. Add mango, coconut milk, chicken broth, coriander, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
- Simmer: Pour the sauce back into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Return the Chicken: Place chicken back into the sauce and cook for 5 minutes until heated through and coated.
- Finish & Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Make it Spicier: Add extra jalapeño or a dash of cayenne.
- Thicker Sauce? Simmer longer or stir in 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with water.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet with sauce
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg