Looking for a refreshing and flavorful meal? Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa combines the zesty, aromatic flavors of ginger and lemon with the sweetness of pineapple and mango for a tropical twist. This dish offers a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that make it perfect for a light dinner or summer barbecue. The juicy chicken paired with the vibrant, colorful salsa is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Refreshing & Zesty – The lemon and ginger give the chicken a bright, aromatic kick, while the pineapple mango salsa adds sweetness.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
- Tropical Twist – The salsa brings a fresh, tropical flavor that perfectly complements the savory chicken.
- Healthy & Flavorful – Packed with lean protein and fresh fruit, this dish is both delicious and nutritious.
gredients
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
Coconut Rice:
1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup water
1/2 tsp salt
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
Spicy Mayo:
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1-2 tsp sriracha (adjust for spice)
1 tsp lime juice
How to Make Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, freshly grated ginger, garlic, lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for a deeper flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Mango Salsa
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the salsa.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced pineapple, diced mango, diced red bell pepper, and diced red onion.
- Add cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to taste. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease with oil.
- Cook the marinated chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side or until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the lemon ginger chicken and serve with a generous topping of pineapple mango salsa.
- Garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Serve with your choice of side, such as quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad.
Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Ginger Chicken
- Marinate Longer – For more depth of flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Grill for Extra Flavor – If you have a grill, cooking the chicken on it will add a nice smoky char that complements the fresh salsa.
- Customize the Salsa – Feel free to add extras like jalapeños for heat or avocado for creaminess.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh pineapple and mango are key to a sweet and vibrant salsa.
How to Serve
- With Rice or Quinoa – Pair the chicken with a serving of quinoa or brown rice for a complete and hearty meal.
- As a Salad – Top a fresh green salad with sliced Lemon Ginger Chicken and a scoop of pineapple mango salsa for a light and healthy option.
- Taco Style – Serve the chicken in taco shells or tortillas, adding the salsa for a tropical twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover chicken and salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salsa is best fresh, but it can last for 1-2 days in the fridge.
Freezing
- Freeze the chicken breasts (without the salsa) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Reheating
- Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe. They’re slightly juicier and add a rich flavor to the dish.
2. Can I make the salsa in advance?
Yes! The salsa can be made 1-2 hours ahead and stored in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld.
3. How spicy is this dish?
This dish is not spicy, but you can add jalapeños or chili flakes to the salsa to bring in some heat.
4. Can I use frozen fruit for the salsa?
Fresh fruit is ideal for this recipe, but if you need to use frozen fruit, make sure it’s thawed and drained well to prevent excess moisture in the salsa.
Conclusion
Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa is the perfect combination of tangy, savory, and sweet. The bright, zesty flavors of the lemon and ginger complement the juicy, sweet pineapple and mango salsa, making this dish a true tropical delight. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is easy, flavorful, and sure to impress. Enjoy the burst of flavors and let this dish transport you to a warm, tropical paradise!