Mango Chicken Salad Delight

Name: Mango Chicken Salad Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, diced; 1 large ripe mango, diced; 4 cups mixed salad greens; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Lunch Recipes

When I first combined juicy mangoes with tender chicken in a salad, I knew I had struck gold. The sweet and savory balance is truly remarkable, and every bite transports me to a beach paradise. With the crunch of fresh greens and the zing of lime dressing, this salad becomes a vibrant meal perfect for warm days. It's not only refreshing but also incredibly satisfying. I've served it at picnics and gatherings, and it's always a hit, captivating everyone with its unique flavors and delightful presentation.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-06T16:09:27.495Z

Creating this Mango Chicken Salad Delight was a delightful journey of flavors and colors. I initially thought about using just greens and chicken, but once I added ripe mango, the dish truly transformed. The trick is to balance the sweetness of the mango with a zesty lime vinaigrette, which elevates the overall taste. This unexpected combination has made it one of my favorite go-to salads.

During my many attempts, I discovered that grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth that pairs perfectly with the fresh mango. A sprinkle of cilantro at the end brightens everything up. Trust me, the fresh ingredients really work wonders and you'll be left craving more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The tropical sweetness of ripe mangoes complements the savory chicken perfectly.
It's a colorful and nutritious meal that’s visually stunning on any table.
The quick prep time makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

      

Ingredients That Shine

The star of this Mango Chicken Salad is the ripe mango. Chosen for its sweet flavor and juicy texture, ensure you look for one that yields slightly to gentle pressure and is free from blemishes. Using a perfectly ripe mango elevates the dish, bringing a tropical essence that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and fresh vegetables. If you can't find a ripe mango, feel free to substitute with a papaya or avocado for a different yet complementary flavor.

The mixed salad greens provide a vibrant base that adds a mix of textures and colors. For an extra crunch, consider using baby spinach, arugula, or even kale instead. Mixing greens can enhance the nutritional profile and visual appeal. Keep in mind that if you're using sturdier greens like kale, massaging them gently with some dressing beforehand can help soften their texture and make them more palatable.

Dressing Techniques

Getting the dressing right can elevate this salad to new heights. When whisking the lime juice, olive oil, and honey, aim for a balanced flavor. Taste as you go—you might prefer a bit more honey if you enjoy a sweeter dressing. To make it zingy, you can add some grated lime zest or a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the mango.

Always dress the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the greens and the firmness of the chicken. If you're preparing in advance, store the dressing separately in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week in a sealed container, and just give it a good shake before using to re-emulsify any ingredients that might have separated.

Serving Suggestions

This Mango Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It can stand alone as a hearty meal or be paired with whole wheat pita or crusty bread for a picnic-style lunch. For a more substantial dinner, serve it alongside a quinoa or couscous dish, which complements the tropical flavors beautifully, while adding an extra layer of texture.

If you find yourself with leftovers, use them creatively. Consider wrapping the salad in a tortilla for a vibrant lunch wrap or adding it to a grain bowl topped with roasted chickpeas. The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for about 2 days, but the key is to keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful salad experience:

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 large ripe mango, diced
4 cups mixed salad greens
1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mango Chicken Salad Delight:

Prepare the Chicken

If using raw chicken, season it with salt and pepper, then grill or pan-cook until fully cooked. Let it cool, then dice into bite-sized pieces.

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, diced mango, chicken, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately for the freshest taste, optionally garnishing with more cilantro or lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Mango Chicken Salad Delight!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, add some toasted nuts or seeds. This salad is also great served chilled.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lower-calorie alternative to chicken, shredded jackfruit or tempeh can be delightful substitutes that absorb flavors well. Ensure to season them just like you would the chicken for optimal taste and texture. For those who prefer plant-based options, consider using grilled tofu or chickpeas, which provide protein and a satisfying bite.

The dressing ingredients are also flexible; coconut oil can be used instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile, while agave syrup can substitute honey for a vegan option. This versatility allows you to tailor the salad to meet various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.

Storage Tips

To enjoy the salad over several days, store the chicken and greens separately from the dressing and mango. This prevents sogginess and helps maintain the salad's fresh texture. If properly stored, the components can last up to 3 days. Make sure to use an airtight container for the chicken and greens to avoid any moisture exposure, which can lead to spoilage.

When you're ready to serve the leftovers, simply toss the ingredients back together and dress lightly as needed. For added flavor, freshen it up with some additional lime juice or a handful of freshly chopped cilantro to invigorate the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this salad.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can replace the mango with pineapple or peaches for a different fruity twist.