Mango & Chilli Chicken

I love mango. Nothing encapsulates the essence of Summer for me quite like the experience of tucking into a ripe, luscious mango over the sink, letting the sweet, golden juice run down my hands and splash onto my face, creating a delightful mess that is both indulgent and nostalgic. The vibrant colour of the mango, with its rich orange flesh contrasting beautifully against the green and yellow skin, is a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the taste buds.

Mango Chilli Chicken Ingredients

There’s something wonderfully liberating about biting into the soft, succulent flesh of a mango, the flavour bursting forth with every bite, releasing a tropical sweetness that instantly transports me to sun-soaked beaches and lazy afternoons. The aroma is intoxicating, a fragrant reminder of warm days and carefree moments. However, one must exercise a bit of caution; if you're not careful, sometimes these delectable fruits can turn a little too squishy, their ripeness tipping over into a state where they become almost too soft to handle.

But fear not! This dish is perfect for showcasing a nice, ripe, and juicy mango at its peak.

Selecting the right mango is crucial for your mango & chilli chicken; you want one that yields slightly to gentle pressure, indicating that it is ripe and ready to be enjoyed. The joy of eating a mango is not just in its taste but also in the experience of preparing it. You can slice it open, revealing the bright, succulent flesh inside, or simply peel it back and dig in with your hands, embracing the juicy chaos that follows.

Whether enjoyed on its own, tossed into a refreshing summer salad, or blended into a smoothie, the mango is a versatile fruit that embodies the spirit of the season. Each bite is a reminder of the warmth of the sun and the joy of summer gatherings, where laughter and the clinking of glasses fill the air. So, as I savour every last drop of that delicious mango juice, I can't help but feel grateful for this sweet, sticky fruit that brings so much happiness during the summer months.

What's In It?:

1 Ripe Mango

30g Pickled Jalapeños Chopped

1/2 Red Onion Diced

15g Siracha Sauce

1 tbsp Minced Garlic

2 tsp Sweet Paprika

30g Mingle Sweet Chilli Sauce

1 tbsp Olive Oil

1 Cup Basmati Rice

Spring Onion to serve

Mango Chilli Chicken

Let's Cook:

Dice the red onion into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a balanced flavour distribution throughout the dish. Heat a medium-sized pan over medium heat and add a generous drizzle of high-quality olive oil, allowing it to warm up and shimmer slightly. Next, introduce the minced garlic, which should be freshly minced to release its aromatic oils, and add it to the pan, stirring it gently to prevent burning. The garlic will infuse the oil with its rich flavour.

Once the garlic becomes fragrant, toss in the roughly chopped jalapeños. These should be prepared according to your heat preference; if you enjoy a spicier dish, include the seeds, or if you prefer a milder flavour, remove the seeds before chopping. Sauté these ingredients together, allowing the onions to soften and take on a slightly translucent appearance, while the jalapeños contribute a vibrant kick.

As the onions begin to change colour, indicating they are ready, add in 500g of diced chicken breast. Ensure the chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and even seasoning. Immediately follow this with a generous drizzle of Siracha sauce, which will add a delightful heat and depth of flavour. Sprinkle in some paprika for a smoky undertone and a touch of Mingle sweet chilli sauce for a hint of sweetness that balances the heat. Stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring that each piece of chicken is coated with the flavourful sauces.

Once the chicken starts to brown, indicating that it is cooking through and developing a nice crust, introduce the fresh mango flesh. The sweetness of the mango will beautifully contrast with the spices and heat in the dish. Gently stir the mango into the mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed and the chicken is well covered with the vibrant sauce.

At this point, reduce the heat to low, allowing the flavours to meld together gently. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. During this time, check periodically to ensure nothing is sticking to the bottom of the pan and to assess the doneness of the chicken. This slow cooking process will help the chicken become tender and allow the flavours to develop further.

Once the cooking time is complete and the chicken is cooked through, prepare to serve the dish. Fluff some basmati rice in a separate pot, which will serve as a perfect base for this flavourful chicken mixture. Spoon the chicken and mango mixture generously over the rice, allowing the juices to soak into the grains. For a fresh finish, garnish the dish with finely diced spring onions, adding a crisp texture and a burst of colour that enhances the overall presentation. Enjoy this delightful and vibrant meal that combines heat, sweetness, and savoury flavours in every bite.

498kcal per serve 60g Carbs | 7.4g Fat | 44g Protein