Mango Salsa Chicken Sliders
Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes
I absolutely love making these Mango Salsa Chicken Sliders for gatherings and family dinners! The combination of sweet mango salsa and tender chicken creates an explosion of flavors that always leaves my guests raving. It’s a quick and easy recipe that I can whip up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, you can customize the sliders with your favorite toppings for a delightful twist! Trust me; once you try these sliders, you’ll want to make them again and again.
When I first tried these Mango Salsa Chicken Sliders, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The way the sweet and tangy mango salsa complements the juicy chicken is simply unbeatable. I often marinate the chicken beforehand to enhance the flavors, which makes a noticeable difference. Additionally, grilling the chicken gives it a smoky touch that elevates the entire dish.
Finding the right balance in the salsa is crucial. I like to mix ripe mango with a squeeze of lime, chopped red onion, and cilantro, which adds freshness. Pairing this with a toasted slider bun makes for a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone enjoys. These sliders are great for summer barbecues or any casual get-together!
Why You'll Love These Sliders
- Sweet and spicy combination that's irresistible
- Quick to prepare, perfect for any occasion
- Juicy chicken paired with fresh mango salsa adds a tropical touch
Perfecting the Chicken
When marinating the chicken breast with chili powder and garlic powder, allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat. A longer marinade, of up to 30 minutes, can add even more depth to the flavor, but be cautious not to exceed an hour as the spices can start to overpower the chicken's natural taste.
Grilling is key for achieving juicy chicken with a lovely char. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 375-450°F) and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for clear juices running from the chicken when it’s cooked through and a slightly golden outside for the best texture.
Crafting the Mango Salsa
The mango salsa can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for parties or busy weeknights. This salsa is best served fresh, but you can prepare it up to 2 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain the vibrant colors and flavors. Add a little extra lime juice just before serving to brighten it up again.
Feel free to adjust the heat level of your mango salsa according to your taste. If you prefer more spice, leave some seeds in the jalapeños or add another half. For a milder version, you can substitute jalapeños with bell peppers or omit them altogether for a sweet, refreshing flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Mango Salsa Chicken Sliders
For the Chicken Sliders
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slider buns
- Lettuce leaves, for topping
For the Mango Salsa
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt, to taste
Combine all the ingredients and let the salsa sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Instructions
Steps to Prepare Mango Salsa Chicken Sliders
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine chicken breast with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
Grill the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
Make the Mango Salsa
In a separate bowl, mix together diced mango, red onion, jalapeños, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the Sliders
Slice the grilled chicken and place it on the slider buns. Top with lettuce and generous spoonfuls of mango salsa.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while the chicken is warm, and enjoy these flavorful sliders!
Feel free to experiment with different toppings like avocado or cheese for a personal twist!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try toasting the slider buns on the grill for a minute or two before assembling your sliders.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them with sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal. The contrast of textures—a crisp salad alongside the juicy sliders—makes for an inviting presentation.
For an added burst of flavor, try incorporating toppings like avocado slices or a drizzle of spicy mayo. These elements can raise the sliders to another level, enhancing both taste and creaminess.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken rubbery.
The mango salsa can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you're planning to use it after refrigeration, give it a good stir and taste for seasoning adjustments, as flavors can mellow when stored.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Just warm it up before assembling the sliders.
→ Is it possible to make the salsa ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the mango salsa a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge.
→ What can I substitute for mango?
Pineapple or peaches are great substitutes if mango isn't available.
→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free slider buns for a delicious gluten-free option.
Mango Salsa Chicken Sliders
I absolutely love making these Mango Salsa Chicken Sliders for gatherings and family dinners! The combination of sweet mango salsa and tender chicken creates an explosion of flavors that always leaves my guests raving. It’s a quick and easy recipe that I can whip up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, you can customize the sliders with your favorite toppings for a delightful twist! Trust me; once you try these sliders, you’ll want to make them again and again.
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Sliders
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slider buns
- Lettuce leaves, for topping
For the Mango Salsa
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt, to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine chicken breast with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Grill the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
In a separate bowl, mix together diced mango, red onion, jalapeños, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Slice the grilled chicken and place it on the slider buns. Top with lettuce and generous spoonfuls of mango salsa.
Serve immediately while the chicken is warm, and enjoy these flavorful sliders!
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try toasting the slider buns on the grill for a minute or two before assembling your sliders.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 30g