The sweetness of ripe mangoes pairs so beautifully with the savory notes of grilled chicken in this salad, creating a perfect balance of flavors. As you bite into each mouthful, the juicy mangoes burst with freshness, complementing the tender chicken that has been marinated just long enough to soak up all the smoky, grilled goodness. The homemade dressing ties everything together, with a zesty tang from lime juice and a subtle hint of honey that brings out the natural sweetness of the mangoes. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to savor each bite slowly, letting the flavors dance on your tongue. Every element of this salad comes together effortlessly, making it a refreshing, feel-good meal perfect for a warm afternoon or a light dinner. The textures—from the crunchy greens to the creamy avocado—add a delightful contrast, leaving you craving more after every bite.
Key Ingredients in Mango Chicken Salad with Homemade Dressing
This salad is all about simple, fresh ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Each one plays a crucial role, from the marinated chicken that brings savory depth, to the bright mangoes and zesty dressing that lift the whole dish. Let’s take a closer look at the key players:
* Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
A lean protein base that soaks up the marinade perfectly, providing the savory, smoky flavor we crave in this salad.
* Olive oil
A smooth and healthy fat, it helps the chicken stay tender while also contributing to the richness of the homemade dressing.
* Salt
A simple yet essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors, bringing out the natural taste of the chicken, mango, and other fresh ingredients.
* Black pepper
Adds just the right amount of heat to balance out the sweetness of the mangoes and the creamy texture of the avocado.
* Garlic powder
A subtle aromatic flavor that pairs so well with the chicken, offering a mild, savory punch without overpowering the dish.
* Paprika
This smoky spice gives the chicken that grilled, charred flavor, making each bite feel like a warm summer evening.
* Large mango
The star of the salad, offering a juicy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken. Its vibrant color adds a refreshing touch to the dish.
* Mixed salad greens
A variety of textures and flavors, from mild to slightly peppery, these greens form the crisp, refreshing base of the salad.
* Red onion
Thinly sliced, this adds a sharp, tangy crunch that cuts through the sweetness of the mango and the richness of the avocado.
* Cucumber
Crisp and hydrating, cucumber slices bring a cool, refreshing contrast to the warm chicken and the tangy dressing.
* Sliced almonds
A crunchy topping that adds texture, with a mild, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the mangoes and the savory chicken.
* Feta cheese
Crumbled feta brings a creamy, tangy bite that pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy mangoes and the tender chicken.
* Plain Greek yogurt
A creamy base for the dressing, Greek yogurt adds a velvety smoothness and a tangy depth that balances out the sweetness of the honey and lime juice.
* Honey
A natural sweetener that helps enhance the mangoes’ sweetness while also providing a hint of warmth that’s perfect for the dressing.
* Lime juice
This adds a bright, citrusy tang to the dressing, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing burst of flavor.
* Dijon mustard
A touch of sharpness and subtle heat that ties the dressing together, bringing all the flavors into harmony.
* Olive oil
Another splash of olive oil for the dressing, helping to create the perfect balance of richness and freshness.
* Salt
A pinch of salt in the dressing enhances the overall flavor profile, making every ingredient shine just a little bit more.
* Black pepper
A final seasoning to bring everything together, giving the dressing just the right amount of warmth to complement the zesty lime and honey.
How to Make Mango Chicken Salad with Homemade Dressing
1. Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
2. Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning.
3. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is thoroughly cooked and perfectly juicy.
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and moist.
5. While the chicken is resting, peel and dice the mango into bite-sized pieces. The sweet, juicy mango will add a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
6. Thinly slice the red onion and cucumber. The onion will add a sharp, tangy bite, while the cucumber brings a cool, refreshing crunch to the salad.
7. After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips against the grain. This step ensures that each bite is tender and easy to enjoy.
8. In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, mango, red onion, cucumber, sliced almonds, and feta cheese. Toss the ingredients together, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
9. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, honey, lime juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This will form your creamy and tangy dressing.
10. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine. Be careful not to over-toss to keep the ingredients from wilting, and let the dressing coat everything evenly.
11. Top the salad with the sliced chicken, arranging it beautifully over the salad mixture.
12. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant, refreshing flavors of your Mango Chicken Salad with Homemade Dressing!
Serving Suggestions for Mango Chicken Salad with Homemade Dressing
– Pair with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The crisp acidity and light body will complement the sweetness of the mangoes and the tangy dressing, making each bite even more refreshing.
– Add a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the extra dressing and juices. A fresh baguette or a slice of sourdough would be perfect for dipping and adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
– Serve as a light dinner or a stunning side at your next BBQ or gathering. This salad’s vibrant colors and bold flavors make it the perfect dish to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to scale up for a crowd!
How to Store Mango Chicken Salad with Homemade Dressing
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (or you’re making this ahead of time), here are a few tips to keep your Mango Chicken Salad fresh and tasty:
– Store the dressing separately: If you’re not serving the salad immediately, it’s best to keep the dressing in a separate container. This will prevent the greens from wilting and the flavors from becoming too soggy. Simply drizzle the dressing on when you’re ready to eat.
– Refrigerate the salad in an airtight container: For any leftover salad, store it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness. Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before storing, and keep the veggies and mangoes as crisp as possible.
– Use within 1-2 days: While the salad is delicious, it’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days. The longer it sits, the more the mangoes and greens will soften, and the dressing will start to lose its vibrant flavors. If you plan to keep it longer, consider storing the chicken and veggies separately for better longevity.
Conclusion
And there you have it, a delicious, vibrant Mango Chicken Salad with Homemade Dressing that’s bursting with fresh, bold flavors! From the smoky grilled chicken to the juicy mangoes and creamy avocado, every bite is a celebration of simple, good-for-you ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also leaves you feeling good about what you’re eating.
This salad is perfect for a light dinner, a refreshing lunch, or a crowd-pleasing side dish at your next gathering. The homemade dressing adds that extra touch of zing and creaminess, making it impossible to resist.
I hope you enjoyed this recipe! Feel free to leave any comments, questions, or feedback if you decide to try it out—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. And if you need any help along the way, I’m always here to lend a hand!
Mango Chicken Salad with Homemade Dressing
Description
Crisp greens meet juicy mango slices and tender chicken in this vibrant salad. Topped with a tangy, homemade dressing that perfectly balances sweetness and zest, it’s a refreshing and satisfying dish bursting with flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
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Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Place the chicken breasts on the preheated pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
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Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest for 5 minutes.
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While the chicken is resting, peel and dice the mango.
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Thinly slice the red onion and cucumber.
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After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips.
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In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, mango, red onion, cucumber, sliced almonds, and feta cheese.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, honey, lime juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
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Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.
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Top the salad with the sliced chicken.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
Note
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes before cooking.
- To save time, use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Swap the feta cheese for goat cheese for a creamier texture.
- The salad is best served immediately to maintain the crispness of the greens and the freshness of the ingredients.
