Description
If you’re craving something vibrant, juicy, and packed with flavor, these Mango Chili Lime Chicken Bowls are calling your name! Tender grilled chicken with a zesty chili lime marinade is paired with sweet mango, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings to create a tropical-inspired bowl that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or throwing together a quick dinner, these bowls are colorful, customizable, and packed with bold flavor you’ll crave again and again.
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Ingredients
For the Chili Lime Chicken:
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1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Zest and juice of 2 limes
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1 tbsp honey
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp chili powder
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½ tsp paprika
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¼ tsp cumin
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
For the Mango Salsa:
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1 large ripe mango, diced
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¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
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¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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Juice of 1 lime
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½ small jalapeño, finely minced (optional)
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Salt to taste
For the Bowls:
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2 cups cooked white or brown rice (or quinoa)
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1 cup shredded red cabbage (or slaw mix)
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1 avocado, sliced
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½ cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
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½ cup black beans, rinsed and drained
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Lime wedges, for serving
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Extra chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
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In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice and zest, honey, garlic, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
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Add chicken and toss to coat.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Make the Mango Salsa
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In a separate bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño.
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Stir gently and season with salt to taste.
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Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
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Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
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Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
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Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Prepare the Bowls
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Start with a base of warm cooked rice or quinoa.
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Arrange shredded cabbage, sliced avocado, corn, black beans, and mango salsa around the bowl.
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Add sliced chili lime chicken on top.
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Garnish with extra cilantro and a fresh lime wedge.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
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Serve bowls immediately while warm.
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Drizzle with extra lime juice or a spoon of your favorite creamy dressing for extra flavor.
Notes
Marinate Longer – If you have time, let the chicken soak in the marinade for a few hours to deepen the flavor.
Use Ripe Mango – A perfectly ripe mango is key for that natural sweetness.
Balance the Heat – Adjust chili and jalapeño to your preferred spice level.
Grill for Flavor – Outdoor grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the mango.
Double the Salsa – It’s so good, you might want extra on the side!