Mango Chutney Chicken Recipe
If you are looking for a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings just the right balance of sweetness and spice, you have to try this Mango Chutney Chicken Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious mango chutney sauce that’s infused with warming spices and a hint of citrus. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for friends, this recipe packs a punch of tropical flair that’s sure to brighten your dinner table and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is all it takes to create an unforgettable Mango Chutney Chicken Recipe. Each item plays a key role, from adding savory depth to brightening the dish with fresh and zesty tones.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect lean protein base that absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For searing the chicken and adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors.
- 1/2 cup mango chutney: The star ingredient, offering sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy notes.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water): Helps to create a luscious, saucy consistency without overpowering the chutney.
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (optional): Adds a refreshing citrusy zing that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 tsp ground ginger: Introduces warm, aromatic spice that beautifully complements the mango.
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric (optional): Brings enchanting color and subtle earthiness.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Just a pinch adds a gentle heat to awaken the palate.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Provides a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness at the end.
How to Make Mango Chutney Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This initial seasoning is crucial as it forms the foundation of flavor that will marry perfectly with the mango chutney sauce later on.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts carefully, and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. You want a beautiful golden brown crust that locks in the juices while cooking the chicken fully. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside, holding onto all those flavorful browned bits in the pan.
Step 3: Prepare the Mango Chutney Sauce
Using the same skillet (this is where all the magic happens), stir in the mango chutney, chicken broth or water, lime juice if you’re using it, ginger, turmeric, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens just enough to coat the chicken beautifully. This step layers your dish with rich, concentrated flavor.
Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet and generously spoon the mango chutney sauce over them. Allow the chicken to simmer gently in the sauce for another 3 to 4 minutes. This lets the chicken absorb those tantalizing flavors, making each bite juicy and utterly delicious.
How to Serve Mango Chutney Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped cilantro is a must for garnish here; it adds a pop of vibrant green and a fresh, slightly citrus aroma that balances the sweetness of the chutney. You could also sprinkle a few extra red pepper flakes if you like a bit more heat or add thinly sliced green onions for crunch.
Side Dishes
This Mango Chutney Chicken shouts for simple, yet complementary sides like fluffy basmati rice, creamy coconut rice, or even warm naan bread to soak up all that delectable sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or a crisp cucumber salad provide fresh texture and color contrast to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the chicken sliced over a bed of fragrant rice and drizzle with extra mango chutney sauce. Garnish with edible flowers or a wedge of lime for an elegant touch. For a casual vibe, wrap the chicken and sauce in warm tortillas with some crunchy slaw for a fusion taco twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mango Chutney Chicken can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it just as good, if not better, the next day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the dish, place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to warm through without drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of chicken broth will help refresh the sauce’s consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken for this Mango Chutney Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully, you can also use thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it better to use store-bought or homemade mango chutney?
Both work great! Store-bought chutney saves time and often has a balanced flavor, but homemade mango chutney allows you to customize sweetness and spice levels to your liking.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or even cauliflower steaks. The mango chutney sauce remains deliciously vibrant with these alternatives.
How spicy is this Mango Chutney Chicken Recipe?
The recipe is mildly spicy, thanks to optional red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the heat to your preference by adding more or omitting them altogether.
What are good beverage pairings with Mango Chutney Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with light and crisp beverages like a chilled Riesling, a zesty sparkling water with lime, or a refreshing mango lassi to play off the tropical flavors.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Mango Chutney Chicken Recipe enough for its effortless way of turning everyday chicken into something truly special. The cozy warmth of spices with the sweet tropical mango chutney creates a dish that feels both comforting and exciting. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to favorites!
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Mango Chutney Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Mango Chutney Chicken recipe offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender pan-seared chicken breasts simmered in a fragrant mango chutney sauce infused with ginger, turmeric, and a touch of heat. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 1/2 cup mango chutney (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (optional)
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their natural flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken evenly without sticking.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, then remove and set aside to rest.
- Make the Mango Chutney Sauce: In the same skillet, combine mango chutney, chicken broth (or water), lime juice if using, ginger, turmeric, and red pepper flakes. Stir to mix and bring to a simmer, cooking 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the chutney sauce over them, and let them simmer together for another 3-4 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Serve: Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped cilantro and serve immediately with your choice of rice, vegetables, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes.
- Using homemade mango chutney can enhance the freshness and flavor of the dish.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with water to reduce sodium content.
- Ensure chicken breasts are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- This dish pairs well with basmati rice or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
