Sweet and Spicy Mango Chicken: The Ultimate Recipe

Name: Sweet and Spicy Mango Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound skinless boneless chicken breasts or thighs; 0.25 cup cornstarch; 0.25 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper; 3 tablespoons cooking oil; 2 tablespoons chopped garlic; 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce; 4 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 2 tablespoons red chili paste; 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 cup water; 1 cup peeled and cubed ripe mangoes; 1 tablespoon chopped spring onion greens

Introduction to Sweet and Spicy Mango Chicken

Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweetness and spice? Sweet and Spicy Mango Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. This recipe combines tender chicken with the luscious sweetness of fresh mango, all enveloped in a savory, spicy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is easy to prepare and will leave everyone asking for seconds!

A Personal Story Behind My Sweet and Spicy Mango Chicken Journey

I remember the first time I tried Sweet and Spicy Mango Chicken at a friend’s house. The moment I took a bite, I was captivated by the layers of flavor. It quickly became a staple in my own kitchen, a dish I often prepare for gatherings. Each time I make it, I’m reminded of those warm, laughter-filled evenings with loved ones.

What Makes This Sweet and Spicy Mango Chicken Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is its unique combination of flavors and textures. The crispy chicken paired with juicy mango and vibrant vegetables creates a symphony of taste that is both comforting and refreshing. The sauce, a blend of soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, and spices, brings everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze!

The Full Sweet and Spicy Mango Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

1 pound skinless boneless chicken breasts or thighs (500 g)
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Any neutral flavored oil (for frying)
3 tablespoons cooking oil
2 tablespoons chopped garlic
2-3 green chilies (chopped)
1 large onion (cut into 1-inch cubes)
1 cup cubed bell peppers (1-inch cubes)
2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
4 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons red chili paste
2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup water
1 cup peeled and cubed ripe mangoes
Chopped spring onion greens (to garnish)

Instructions

Fry The Chicken:
- Wash the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Cut into small bite-size cubes.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, ginger garlic paste, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the cubed chicken pieces to the bowl and coat them evenly with the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a pan over high heat for frying. Ensure the oil is hot enough for a crispy finish.
- Fry the chicken in batches until crisp and golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Make The Sauce:
- Heat oil in a wok over high heat.
- Add garlic and green chilies, frying for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Add onion and bell peppers, cooking for about a minute until slightly tender.
- Mix in dark soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, red chili paste, tomato ketchup, rice vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Make a slurry by mixing cornstarch in water, then add it to the wok. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Cook until the sauce thickens and the cornstarch is cooked. You can adjust the consistency with more water if needed.
- Add the fried chicken and mango pieces to the wok, mixing gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot for a delightful experience.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Sweet and Spicy Mango Chicken

Serve this dish over fluffy white rice or alongside warm naan for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the sauce. For those who love extra heat, consider serving additional chili paste on the side. If you want to switch things up, try adding different vegetables like snap peas or broccoli for added crunch and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet and Spicy Mango Chicken

Can I use frozen mango?
Yes, frozen mango can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before adding it to the dish.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. Divide it into individual portions for easy lunches throughout the week.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the soy sauce and flour with gluten-free alternatives, and ensure your cooking oil is gluten-free.