Grilled Sweet Chili Chicken and Mango Salad

This Grilled Sweet Chili Chicken and Mango Salad is a symphony of flavors and textures. It combines succulent grilled chicken, sweet mango, crisp vegetables, and a zesty sweet chili dressing for a fresh and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a vibrant dinner option, this salad is sure to impress your taste buds. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some tips for creating this delicious and colorful salad.

 

Ingredients:

For the Grilled Sweet Chili Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Salad:

• 6 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., lettuce, spinach, arugula)
• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted, and sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup roasted cashews or peanuts, chopped (optional)

For the Sweet Chili Dressing:

• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• Salt and black pepper to taste

 

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill it for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is beautifully charred and cooked through.
3. Once grilled, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into thin strips.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced mangoes, thinly sliced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, chopped cilantro, and chopped mint leaves.

Step 4: Make the Sweet Chili Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning or sweetness as needed.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Drizzle the sweet chili dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
2. Arrange the sliced grilled sweet chili chicken on top of the salad.
3. Optionally, sprinkle roasted cashews or peanuts over the salad for added crunch and texture.
4. Serve your Grilled Sweet Chili Chicken and Mango Salad immediately, garnished with extra cilantro or mint leaves if desired.

 

Pro Tips for a Flavorful Grilled Sweet Chili Chicken and Mango Salad:

1. Chicken Marinade: Marinating the chicken infuses it with flavor. Allow enough time for marinating for the best results.
2. Grilling Chicken: Ensure your grill is preheated and properly oiled to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken until it’s fully cooked but still juicy.
3. Ripe Mangoes: Use ripe mangoes for a sweet and juicy contrast to the spicy chicken and tangy dressing.
4. Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients like avocado, cucumber, or cherry tomatoes for variety.
5. Nuts for Crunch: Roasted cashews or peanuts add a delightful crunch to the salad. If you have a nut allergy, consider using toasted sesame seeds or sunflower seeds.
6. Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the dressing and marinate the chicken in advance for quicker meal prep on busy days.

 

This Grilled Sweet Chili Chicken and Mango Salad is a delightful fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. With juicy grilled chicken, sweet mango, and a zesty sweet chili dressing, it’s a refreshing and satisfying meal. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire of vibrant and healthy recipes. Embrace the delicious contrasts and enjoy every mouthful!