If you’re looking for a vibrant, tropical twist on a classic chicken dish, this Pineapple-Mango Glazed Chicken with Chili Lime Sauce is exactly what you need. Combining the sweet flavors of pineapple and mango with a zesty chili lime sauce, this dish is bursting with freshness and packs a punch of flavor. It’s a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and spicy, making it perfect for a summer evening meal or any time you want to feel like you’re dining in a tropical paradise.
Not only does this recipe offer an exciting flavor profile, but it also boasts a mix of healthy ingredients and a simple cooking process. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting in the kitchen, this dish is easy to prepare, providing a rewarding cooking experience and a meal that looks and tastes impressive.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to prepare this delicious Pineapple-Mango Glazed Chicken with Chili Lime Sauce, including the ingredients, preparation steps, cooking times, tips, benefits, and frequently asked questions. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts (bone-in or boneless, depending on your preference) 🍗
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks 🍍
- 1/2 cup mango chunks 🥭
- 1 tablespoon honey 🍯
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce 🍜
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
- 1 teaspoon chili powder 🌶️
- Juice of 1 lime 🍋
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 🧉
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
For the Chili Lime Sauce
- 1/4 cup sour cream 🥄
- 1 tablespoon lime juice 🍋
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 🌶️
- 1 teaspoon honey 🍯
- Salt to taste 🧂
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories per Serving: Approx. 380 kcal
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple-Mango Glaze
Begin by creating the glaze, which will be the heart of this dish’s tropical flavor. In a blender, combine the pineapple chunks, mango chunks, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, chili powder, and lime juice. Blend until you achieve a smooth, thick consistency.
The glaze is a key part of the flavor profile of this dish, bringing sweetness from the fruits and a touch of heat from the chili powder. Make sure to blend it well to achieve a silky, even texture. Set the glaze aside for use later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
To ensure your chicken turns out tender and flavorful, season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and olive oil. The olive oil helps to keep the chicken moist during the cooking process, while salt and pepper enhance the flavor.
Heat a grill or a skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, be sure it’s hot enough before adding the chicken to create a nice sear. Cook the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on their thickness, until they are fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Step 3: Apply the Pineapple-Mango Glaze
During the final few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the prepared pineapple-mango glaze. Be generous with your application—the more glaze, the more flavorful the chicken will be.
Allow the chicken to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the glaze caramelize slightly. This caramelization adds a rich, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the fruits.
Step 4: Prepare the Chili Lime Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the chili lime sauce that will serve as a tangy counterpart to the sweet, glazed chicken. In a bowl, mix together the sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, honey, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.
This sauce has a creamy texture and a zesty flavor, which will balance the richness of the pineapple-mango glaze perfectly.
Step 5: Serve the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is nicely caramelized, remove it from the heat. Allow it to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring that the chicken remains moist and tender.
Serve the glazed chicken with a generous drizzle of the chili lime sauce on top. For an extra tropical touch, you can also garnish with some extra fresh pineapple or mango chunks. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or a light salad.
Tips for Perfect Pineapple-Mango Glazed Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh pineapple and mango rather than canned. Fresh fruits have a brighter, more natural sweetness that elevates the dish.
- Cooking Temperature: Be sure to cook the chicken over medium heat. Cooking it at too high a temperature may cause the glaze to burn before the chicken is cooked through.
- Basting the Chicken: When applying the glaze, try basting the chicken multiple times during the last few minutes of cooking. This will give a deeper caramelized flavor.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its moisture.
Benefits of Pineapple-Mango Glazed Chicken
This dish not only tastes amazing but also comes with several health benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins: Pineapple and mango are both packed with vitamins A and C, which support immune health and skin vitality.
- Lean Protein: Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Healthy Fats: The use of olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Low in Sugar: By using natural sweeteners like honey, this dish remains relatively low in refined sugars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Keep in mind that chicken thighs have a higher fat content, which may make the dish a bit juicier. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs generally take a little longer to cook.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a skillet over medium heat or a microwave. Make sure the chicken is heated through before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prepare the glaze and chili lime sauce in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply glaze and cook the chicken as directed.
Is There a Substitute for Sour Cream in the Chili Lime Sauce?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt. It offers a similar creamy texture with fewer calories and more protein.
Conclusion
Pineapple-Mango Glazed Chicken with Chili Lime Sauce is a delicious dish that brings a taste of the tropics straight to your dinner table. The combination of sweet pineapple and mango, savory chicken, and tangy chili lime sauce creates a complex yet harmonious flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
This dish is perfect for a special dinner or even a casual family meal. Its bright flavors are sure to impress, and the health benefits make it a dish you can feel good about eating. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding to make.
Serve it with some steamed rice or a light, fresh salad to complete the meal, and enjoy a little taste of sunshine in every bite.
