Cilantro Lime Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa: A Fresh, Flavorful Dish

*If you’re looking for a vibrant and fresh dish to enjoy, this Cilantro Lime Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa is a perfect choice. With its zesty cilantro lime chicken, paired with a refreshing mango avocado salsa, it offers a delightful combination of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful mix of cilantro, lime, and honey, giving it a juicy, succulent taste, while the salsa is the perfect accompaniment, bringing together creamy avocado, juicy mango, and a hint of jalapeño for a touch of spice.

Whether served with a side of jasmine rice or enjoyed on its own, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with healthy, vibrant ingredients. It’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive meal with family and friends.

For more ideas on light, healthy meals that bring bold flavors, check out this guide to tropical-inspired dishes, or learn more about the benefits of cilantro and lime in your cooking by visiting this article on the health benefits of cilantro.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Cilantro Lime Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa – A Fresh and Flavorful Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This vibrant and fresh Cilantro Lime Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa is a perfect combination of bright citrusy flavors, aromatic cilantro, and a hint of sweetness. The juicy chicken marinated in a zesty cilantro-lime mixture pairs perfectly with the creamy mango avocado salsa, creating a light yet satisfying meal. Serve it with jasmine rice for an even more filling dish, making it a perfect summer dinner or weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken:

• 1 1/4 lbs chicken breast, raw

• Optional: 2/3 cup jasmine rice, cooked according to package directions (not included in nutrition info, see note)

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

• 2 limes, juiced and zested

• 1/4 cup olive oil (2 fl oz)

• 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce (1 fl oz)

• 2 tbsp honey (1 fl oz)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (8 grams)

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp salt

For the Mango Avocado Salsa:

• 1 large mango, peeled and chopped (309 grams)

• 1 1/2 medium Haas avocados, peeled and chopped (225 grams)

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1/2 red onion, finely diced (55 grams)

• 1 medium jalapeño, seeds removed and diced (15 grams)

• 2 limes, juiced and zested

• 1 tbsp olive oil (1/2 fl oz)

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   In a bowl, whisk together the chopped cilantro, lime juice and zest, olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, cumin, and salt. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours for the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare the Mango Avocado Salsa:
   While the chicken marinates, make the salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped mango, avocados, cilantro, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice and zest, olive oil, and salt. Toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside to allow the flavors to develop.

3. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, cooking for about 6-7 minutes per side.

4. Assemble the Dish:
   Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or serving it whole. Serve the chicken alongside or on top of the mango avocado salsa.

5. Serve:
   If desired, serve the chicken and salsa with a side of jasmine rice for a complete meal. Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful dish!

Notes

The optional jasmine rice is not included in the nutritional information but can be added as a side for a more filling meal.

For a spicier salsa, keep the seeds in the jalapeño or add more jalapeño.

If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken breast for chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling, Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with salsa
• Calories: 340 kcal
• Sugar: 17g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Cilantro Lime Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the cilantro, lime juice and zest, olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, cumin, and salt to create the marinade.
   • Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate. For best results, marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours.
2. Make the Mango Avocado Salsa:
   • While the chicken is marinating, prepare the mango avocado salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped mango, avocado, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño.
   • Add the lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, and salt, and gently toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set the salsa aside while you cook the chicken.
3. Cook the Cilantro Lime Chicken:
   • Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade.
   • Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center. Remove from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
4. Serve:
   • Slice the cilantro lime chicken into strips and serve it on a plate or over a bed of cooked jasmine rice (if using). Top with a generous amount of the mango avocado salsa.
   • Garnish with additional fresh cilantro or a wedge of lime, if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Advanced Techniques

Here are some ways to elevate your Cilantro Lime Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa:

1. Grill the Chicken:
   • For an added smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet. This will infuse the chicken with a delicious charred taste while keeping it juicy inside.
2. Add Spice to the Salsa:
   • If you enjoy a bit more heat, try adding extra jalapeño to the salsa or include a pinch of cayenne pepper for an additional kick. You can also experiment with serrano peppers for a different flavor profile.
3. Customize the Salsa:
   • Feel free to get creative with the salsa by adding additional ingredients such as chopped cucumbers or a handful of pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and flavor. You can also substitute the mango with pineapple for a tropical twist.
4. Infuse the Marinade:
   • If you want an even bolder flavor in the chicken, try adding a few sprigs of fresh oregano or thyme to the marinade. These herbs will complement the cilantro and lime and add depth to the chicken’s flavor.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

For keeping your Cilantro Lime Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa fresh, follow these tips:

1. Storage:
   • Store the cooked chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge, while the salsa should be consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
2. Reheating:
   • Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.
3. Freezing:
   • While freezing the chicken is possible, the salsa does not freeze well due to its fresh ingredients. You can freeze the chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months, but it’s best to prepare the salsa fresh when serving.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

If you have dietary restrictions or prefer to make substitutions, here are some options:

1. Gluten-Free:
   • This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you don’t need to make any substitutions.
2. Dairy-Free:
   • This dish is already dairy-free, so no substitutions are necessary!
3. Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly:
   • Omit the jasmine rice to make this dish low-carb or keto-friendly. You can substitute with cauliflower rice for a similar texture and flavor.
4. Vegetarian:
   • If you’re vegetarian, replace the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh marinated in the same cilantro lime marinade.
5. Spicy Option:
   • Add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken marinade for an added spicy kick.

FAQs About The Recipe

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs might take a bit longer to cook.

Q: Can I use a different fruit for the salsa?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the mango with pineapple, papaya, or even watermelon for a different twist on the salsa.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the marinade and salsa a few hours ahead of time. Just make sure to cook the chicken fresh before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

The Cilantro Lime Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa is a wonderfully fresh and vibrant dish that brings together juicy chicken, a flavorful marinade, and a sweet and spicy salsa. Whether served with a side of jasmine rice or on its own, this meal is a perfect way to enjoy the bright flavors of summer. It’s simple to prepare, light, and packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Give it a try for a tropical, flavorful experience that will leave your taste buds dancing!