Go Back

Grilled Chicken Tacos With Mango Salsa

Juicy, smoky grilled chicken is tucked into warm tortillas and topped with a fresh mango salsa made with lime, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. These colorful Grilled Chicken Tacos are fresh, lightly spicy, and great for a quick lunch or dinner.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 430

Ingredients
  

For the Grilled Chicken
  • 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Mango Salsa
  • 2 ripe but firm mangoes, diced
  • ½ small red onion, finely diced
  • 1 jalapeño, finely diced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Tacos
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Fresh lime wedges, for serving

Equipment

  • Outdoor grill or stovetop grill pan
  • Instant-read meat thermometer
  • Kitchen tongs
  • 2 mixing bowls
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Whisk
  • Spoon
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Whisk olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
  2. Add the chicken breasts and turn them until evenly covered with marinade.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
  4. Cut the mango into ½-inch cubes, finely dice the red onion and jalapeño, and chop the cilantro.
  5. Combine mango, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Fold gently and set aside.
  6. Heat to medium-high, about 400–450°F (204–232°C).
  7. Cook for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Transfer it to a clean board and leave it untouched for 5 minutes.
  9. Cut across the grain into ¼–½-inch strips.
  10. Heat for about 20–30 seconds per side until soft and flexible.
  11. Divide the sliced grilled chicken among the warm tortillas.
  12. Spoon about 2 tablespoons over each taco, draining excess salsa liquid first.
  13. Add fresh lime wedges on the side and enjoy while the chicken and tortillas are warm.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm mangoes so the salsa stays chunky.
  • Remove the jalapeño seeds and ribs for a milder salsa.
  • Chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts.
  • A heavy skillet or grill pan works if you do not have an outdoor grill.
  • Do not slice the chicken before its 5-minute rest.
  • Keep the salsa separate until serving to prevent soggy tortillas.
  • Store chicken and mango salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.