Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Mango Salsa

Looking for a light, flavorful meal that’s perfect for sunny days? This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Mango Salsa is just what you need.

It’s fresh, zesty, and bursting with vibrant flavors, making it the ideal choice for a quick dinner, a BBQ, or a meal prep favorite.

The grilled chicken is tender, juicy, and seasoned with lemon and herbs, while the mango salsa adds a sweet, tangy twist. Together, they create a dish that’s easy to make and even easier to love.

Let’s get into how to make this delicious, colorful meal.

Ingredients for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Mango Salsa

Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll have this tasty dish ready in no time. Feel free to swap or add items based on your preferences!

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless and skinless for best results)
• Fresh lemon (for zest and juice)
• Olive oil
• Fresh garlic
• Dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mango Salsa:

• 2 ripe mangos (peeled and diced)
• 1 small red onion (finely chopped)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• Fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Jalapeño (for a spicy kick)

How to Grill the Lemon Herb Chicken

This grilled chicken is simple to make and full of bright, fresh flavor. Follow these steps for the perfect grilled chicken every time:

Marinate the Chicken:

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Add the chicken to the bowl and coat well. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 20-30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Grill the Chicken:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Once the grill is hot, place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to retain its juices.

How to Make the Mango Salsa

The mango salsa is the perfect fresh topping for your grilled chicken. Here’s how to put it together:

Prepare the Ingredients:

Peel and dice the mangoes, then chop the red onion, red bell pepper, and cilantro. If you like a bit of spice, finely chop the jalapeño as well.

Mix and Season:

In a medium bowl, combine the mango, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.

Stir everything together until well mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you want more spice, add more jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes.

How to Serve

Now that the chicken and salsa are ready, it’s time to serve this flavorful dish! Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve the grilled lemon herb chicken with a generous spoonful of mango salsa on top.

Pair it with a side of steamed rice, quinoa, or even a light salad for a complete meal.

You can also serve this dish in wraps or tacos for a fun, casual meal.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken and Mango Salsa

Here are a few extra tips to make sure everything turns out perfectly:

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken can dry out if overcooked, so keep an eye on it and use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.
• Customize the Salsa: Feel free to add other ingredients to the salsa, such as diced cucumber, avocado, or a splash of orange juice for extra sweetness.
• Grill the Chicken on High Heat: This helps create those beautiful grill marks and a crispy, flavorful exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

• Spicy Kick: Add more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the mango salsa for an extra heat boost.
• Veggie Boost: You can add extra veggies to the salsa, like diced cucumber, tomatoes, or even corn.
• Dressing: If you prefer a creamy texture, drizzle some Greek yogurt or sour cream on top of the chicken for a smooth finish.

What to Serve with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

• Pair this dish with sides that complement the bright, fresh flavors of the chicken and salsa:
• Side Dishes: A simple side of roasted vegetables, a green salad with a citrus vinaigrette, or garlic bread all work wonderfully with this dish.
• Drinks: A refreshing cold drink, like iced tea, sparkling water with lime, or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, will pair perfectly.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before marinating and grilling.

How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The mango salsa is best eaten fresh, but can be stored for 1 day.

Can I grill the chicken indoors?
If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop or bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.