Spicy Mango Chicken Tacos

Name: Spicy Mango Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 small red onion, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Culinary Journey Recipes

I absolutely love making Spicy Mango Chicken Tacos for my family and friends! The combination of tender chicken, zesty mango, and vibrant spices is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. We usually enjoy these tacos during warm evenings or casual gatherings, and they never fail to impress everyone at the table. Plus, the freshness of the mango adds a tropical flair that makes this dish stand out from typical taco recipes. Let’s dive into the exciting flavors together!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-13T16:50:18.591Z

When I first tried Spicy Mango Chicken Tacos, I was blown away by how the flavors danced together. The sweetness from the mango and the kick of spices create a perfect balance that elevates the traditional taco into a gourmet experience. I've found that marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (if time allows) infuses it with maximum flavor!

Additionally, adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice right before serving really ties everything together. You might want to prep a bit of extra mango salsa on the side; it adds a refreshing twist that complements the spices wonderfully. Enjoy experimenting with this fun recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Unique blend of spicy and sweet flavors that tantalize your taste buds
Colorful presentation that brings joy to any table
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining

Perfectly Grilled Chicken

Grilling the chicken to perfection is key for a juicy and flavorful taco filling. Aim for medium-high heat on your grill, which is typically around 400°F to 450°F. This temperature allows for a nice sear without drying out the chicken. Keep an eye on the chicken while it cooks; it should take about 6-7 minutes per side. Look for nice grill marks and a slight char for the best flavor.

After grilling, always let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moister chicken. If you're unsure it’s cooked through, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 165°F.

Mango's Role in the Tacos

The ripe mango is a star ingredient in these tacos, bringing a vibrant sweetness that balances the spices. When selecting a mango, look for one that yields slightly when pressed; this indicates ripeness. If you’re busy or don’t have fresh mango, feel free to use frozen mango chunks as a convenient substitute. Just thaw them before mixing into the toppings.

Incorporating fresh lime juice into the mango mixture brightens its flavor and enhances the overall dish. I recommend a squeeze of lime right before serving to elevate the tropical notes even further while adding a tangy kick.

Ingredients

For the Tacos

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 ripe mango, diced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 small red onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
8 small corn tortillas
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from grill and let it rest before slicing.

Prepare the Toppings

While the chicken is resting, prepare your toppings by combining diced mango, red bell pepper, and red onion in a bowl. Add a squeeze of lime juice and mix gently.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds each. Place slices of grilled chicken on top, add mango mixture, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for extra zest. Enjoy your flavorful Spicy Mango Chicken Tacos!

Pro Tips

For added spice, include some chopped jalapeños in the mango salsa. You can also use shredded cabbage for a crunchy texture in the tacos.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can simplify your meal preparation by marinating the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. Just be sure not to exceed the 24-hour mark to prevent compromising the chicken's texture.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid the microwave, as it can result in rubbery chicken.

Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Mango Chicken Tacos are delicious on their own, but feel free to get creative with toppings! Add sliced avocados or crumbled feta cheese for creaminess. A drizzle of spicy yogurt sauce made from plain yogurt mixed with Sriracha can also elevate the dish with an extra kick.

Consider serving the tacos with a side of black beans or a fresh salad to round out the meal. The bright colors and varied textures create a sensational presentation that is perfect for gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another protein besides chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp or tofu work great for this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with black beans or grilled veggies.

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before for even more flavor.

→ What sides pair well with these tacos?

Consider serving with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.