If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors, Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa is where it’s at! Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with the zesty brightness of lemon and the spicy kick of ginger, perfectly complemented by a sweet and tangy salsa made with ripe pineapple and mango. It’s a party of flavors in every bite, and trust me, this dish will have you coming back for more! Whether you’re grilling it up for a sunny evening or making a quick, healthy weeknight dinner, this recipe is here to impress.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa
Bold and Flavorful: The combination of fresh lemon, spicy ginger, and juicy chicken creates a dish that’s both tangy and savory. Paired with the tropical salsa, it’s like taking a little vacation with every bite.
Refreshing and Light: The pineapple mango salsa adds a burst of tropical freshness, making the whole dish feel light and refreshing—perfect for those warmer days when you crave something bright but satisfying.
Simple and Quick: This dish comes together quickly, so you can have a healthy, restaurant-quality meal in no time. No complicated ingredients—just simple, fresh flavors that speak for themselves.
Customizable: You can adjust the level of heat in the chicken with more or less ginger, and the salsa can be made to your taste by adding more lime or even some chili flakes if you like things extra spicy!
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein from the chicken and loaded with vitamins from the fruit and veggies, this meal is as nourishing as it is delicious.
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Ingredients in Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa
Let’s break down the ingredients that will turn this dish into a tropical masterpiece:
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (lean and perfect for absorbing the flavors)
- Fresh lemon juice (for that zesty, bright kick)
- Fresh ginger (adds a subtle spicy warmth)
- Garlic (for a savory depth)
- Olive oil (for cooking and a touch of richness)
- Honey (to balance the tartness of the lemon)
- Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
For the Pineapple Mango Salsa:
- Fresh pineapple (sweet, juicy, and tangy)
- Ripe mango (adds a smooth sweetness that pairs beautifully with pineapple)
- Red onion (adds a bit of bite and color)
- Red bell pepper (for crunch and a touch of sweetness)
- Fresh cilantro (for an herby, fresh flavor)
- Lime juice (to enhance the tropical flavors)
- Salt (to balance everything out)
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, making sure they’re fully coated with the marinade. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have the time.
2. Prepare the Pineapple Mango Salsa:
While the chicken marinates, prepare the salsa. Dice the pineapple, mango, red onion, and red bell pepper into small pieces. Place them in a bowl, then add the fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together and set the salsa aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. You can also grill the chicken outdoors for a smoky, charred flavor.
4. Serve the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into strips or serve whole, then spoon the pineapple mango salsa over the top.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa with your favorite side—steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad would be perfect! The sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors are guaranteed to make this a dish you’ll crave time and time again.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~300 calories (for the chicken and salsa)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes (for marinating and prepping salsa)
Cook Time: 15 minutes (for the chicken)
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments:
Rice or Quinoa: A fluffy bed of rice or quinoa soaks up the juices and adds a hearty base for the chicken and salsa.
Grilled Veggies: Pair it with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Green Salad: A light and crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette would complement the dish’s tropical flavors.
Avocado: For a creamy contrast, add sliced avocado on the side, or even mix it into the salsa for an added richness.
Additional Tips
Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you can, let the chicken marinate for an hour or more to allow the flavors to really soak in. If you’re in a rush, 20 minutes will still do the trick.
Adjust the Spice: If you like things spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salsa or a bit more ginger to the chicken marinade.
Make It a Meal Prep Winner: This dish is great for meal prep. Grill extra chicken and store the salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Use Grilled Chicken: If you’re grilling outdoors, this recipe is perfect for the grill. The smoky flavor adds an extra layer of depth that’s hard to beat.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can prep the salsa ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a day or two. Just wait to cook the chicken until you’re ready to serve.
Q2: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A2: You can, but I recommend boneless skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they cook faster and absorb the marinade more easily. If you do use bone-in chicken, the cooking time will be longer.
Q3: Can I use frozen chicken?
A3: Frozen chicken can be used, but make sure to thaw it before marinating and cooking. Frozen chicken may not absorb the marinade as well as fresh chicken.
Q4: Can I use a different fruit for the salsa?
A4: Absolutely! You could swap the mango and pineapple for other tropical fruits like papaya or kiwi, or even mix in berries for a fun twist.
Q5: Can I make the salsa spicier?
A5: Yes! Add a diced jalapeño to the salsa for some heat. Just be sure to remove the seeds if you want to control the spice level.
Q6: Can I bake the chicken instead of cooking it on the stovetop?
A6: Definitely! Bake the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Q7: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A7: If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked chicken is an option. Just make sure to heat it thoroughly and top it with the fresh salsa right before serving.
Q8: How do I store leftovers?
A8: Store the leftover chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently, and enjoy the salsa cold.
Q9: Can I use a different type of chicken?
A9: You can definitely use chicken thighs or chicken tenders for a different texture, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Q10: What’s the best way to serve this for a crowd?
A10: For a party, serve the chicken sliced on a platter with a generous amount of salsa on top. It’s a beautiful dish that’s easy to share and serve.
Conclusion
This Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa is everything you could want in a meal—bright, fresh, flavorful, and so satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a celebration, no matter the occasion. Whether you’re grilling up a feast or simply looking for something light and refreshing, this recipe is a surefire winner. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Print
Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa dish is bursting with fresh, zesty, and tropical flavors! Juicy chicken bites coated in a lemon-ginger glaze, served over creamy coconut rice, topped with a vibrant pineapple mango salsa, and finished with a drizzle of spicy mayo. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy, creating a fresh and vibrant meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Ginger Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Coconut Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Pineapple Mango Salsa:
- 1/2 cup diced pineapple
- 1/2 cup diced mango
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Spicy Mayo:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 tsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tsp lime juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Coconut Rice:
Rinse the jasmine or basmati rice under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and infused with the coconut flavor. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing. - Make the Lemon Ginger Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together grated ginger, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, and soy sauce. Set aside for later. - Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Pour the lemon ginger glaze over the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens and coats the chicken. - Prepare the Pineapple Mango Salsa:
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced pineapple, mango, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to mix. - Make the Spicy Mayo:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. Adjust the spice level to your preference. - Assemble the Bowl:
To assemble, place a base of coconut rice in each bowl. Top with the lemon ginger chicken, followed by the pineapple mango salsa. Drizzle with the spicy mayo and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more sriracha to the spicy mayo or sprinkle some chili flakes over the dish.
- You can grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it for a smoky flavor.
- This dish works well with other protein options, such as shrimp or tofu, for a variation.
- The pineapple mango salsa can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated.
- Use fresh cilantro for a more vibrant taste, or substitute with parsley if you prefer a milder herb.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared, Simmered
- Cuisine: Tropical, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (with rice, chicken, salsa, and mayo)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg