Imagine a dish that combines the smoky heat of chipotle, the tropical sweetness of ripe mango, and perfectly grilled chicken that practically melts in your mouth. This Grilled Chicken in Mango Chipotle Mojo isn't just a recipe—it's a culinary adventure that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience. With a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors, this Mexican-inspired dish will transport you to a vibrant street food paradise right in your own backyard.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 ripe mango
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by peeling and chopping the ripe mango into chunks. In a blender, combine the mango, chipotle peppers, lime juice, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth and uniform.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large glass or ceramic dish. Pour the mango chipotle mojo marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Remove chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature. This helps ensure even cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 375-400°F. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Grill chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Let the grilled chicken rest for 5-7 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro or additional lime wedges before serving. Pair with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: For the most intense flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. The longer it sits, the more the mango chipotle mojo will infuse into the meat.
- Temperature is Key: Always let your chicken come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent dry meat.
- Grill Maintenance: Clean and oil your grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking and achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give each chicken thigh enough space on the grill to cook evenly and develop a delicious caramelized exterior.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat incredibly juicy and tender.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with cooling sides like cilantro-lime rice or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the spicy chipotle flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 145mg
