Lemon Ginger Chicken with Fried Pineapple & Mango Salsa
This zesty Lemon Ginger Chicken pairs beautifully with a vibrant and sweet Fried Pineapple & Mango Salsa. Perfect for a quick dinner or weekend treat, this dish can be cooked entirely on the stovetop or finished in the oven for a hands-off option. The salsa can be fried alongside the chicken for a caramelized touch or cooked separately in the same skillet.
A Tropical Escape on Your Plate
If you’re craving a meal that feels like a getaway, this Lemon Ginger Chicken with Fried Pineapple & Mango Salsa is the perfect ticket to tropical paradise. The tender chicken, infused with the zingy freshness of lemon and the earthy warmth of ginger, is a flavor-packed delight. Pair that with a sweet-and-spicy salsa made from caramelized pineapple and mango, and you’ve got a dish that will transport your taste buds to sun-drenched beaches and swaying palm trees.
The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to make, yet it delivers flavors that taste like hours of effort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of chili flakes to the chicken marinade.
- Feel free to add other tropical fruits like papaya or passion fruit to the salsa for variety.
- If you’re short on time, grilling the chicken and salsa works wonderfully too!
Perfect for Entertaining
Imagine serving this stunning dish at a dinner party. The golden-brown chicken, topped with a vibrant and juicy salsa, is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. Pair it with a light salad, fluffy rice, or even soft tortillas for a crowd-pleasing spread.
Lemon Ginger Chicken with Fried Pineapple & Mango Salsa
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger finely grated
- 2 tbsp lemon juice about 1 lemon
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- For the Fried Pineapple & Mango Salsa:
- 1 cup fresh pineapple diced
- 1 cup fresh mango diced
- 1 small red onion finely chopped
- 1 small red chili finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 lime juice and zest
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:In a large bowl, whisk together grated ginger, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, soy sauce, honey, pepper, and salt.Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Prepare the Salsa:While the chicken marinates, prepare the salsa by combining pineapple, mango, red onion, chili (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and zest in a bowl. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:Pan-Fried Method:Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Remove and let rest.
- Oven Method:Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).Sear the chicken breasts in a skillet with 2 tbsp of oil over medium heat for 2 minutes on each side to develop a golden crust.Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Cook the Salsa:In the same skillet (add 1 tbsp oil if needed), add the pineapple and mango mixture.Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the fruit caramelizes slightly, absorbing the leftover chicken flavors. Alternatively, serve the salsa fresh if you prefer a raw, vibrant option.
- Serve:Plate the chicken breasts and top with the fried pineapple & mango salsa. Garnish with extra cilantro and a wedge of lime for added zest.
Tips to Make It Yours
- Fruits & Veggies: While pineapple and mango create the perfect tropical medley, you can also experiment with peaches, nectarines, or even roasted bell peppers for a twist.
- Herbs: Don’t love cilantro? Swap it for fresh parsley or mint for a fresh herbaceous flavor.
- Sides: Serve the chicken with coconut rice, quinoa, or even a simple green salad for a complete meal.
This Lemon Ginger Chicken with Fried Pineapple & Mango Salsa is a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy. It’s as impressive as it is easy to make, enjoy!
