Grilled Mango-Chile Chicken Salad with Lime Vinaigrette
Mango Salad
This grilled mango-chile chicken salad is my go-to when I want something bright, satisfying, and low in added sugar. Ripe mango brings a natural fruity sweetness, balanced by a smoky chile rub on the chicken and a tangy lime vinaigrette that ties everything together.
It comes together quickly — grill the chicken, toss a simple vinaigrette, and assemble with crisp greens and creamy avocado. It’s perfect for a light dinner or a showstopping lunch that feels indulgent without loading on sugar.
Ingredients
- 1.25 lb Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pieces Ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 5 oz Mixed salad greens
- 1 pieces Avocado, sliced
- 1 cup English cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup Red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 oz Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (for chicken)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil (for vinaigrette)
- 3 tbsp Fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Honey (optional, keep low)
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 3/4 tsp Chili powder
- 3/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 2 pieces Lime wedges (to serve)
Instructions
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Pat the chicken dry and rub with 1 tbsp olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
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Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill chicken 5-6 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
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While the chicken rests, whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil, 3 tbsp lime juice, Dijon, honey (if using), remaining 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to make the vinaigrette.
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In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, diced mango, and avocado slices.
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Toss the salad lightly with half the vinaigrette. Arrange sliced grilled chicken on top and drizzle remaining vinaigrette.
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Sprinkle crumbled feta over the salad (if using) and serve with lime wedges for extra brightness.
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Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lime if needed, and enjoy immediately while the chicken is warm.
Tips & Notes
- To keep sugar low, choose a just-ripe mango and skip the optional honey in the vinaigrette—lime brightens sweetness naturally.
- Grill the chicken until just cooked; resting helps it stay juicy and makes slicing easier.
- If you don’t have a grill, a hot cast-iron skillet gives great char in less time.
- Prep the vinaigrette and slice veggies ahead for a quick assembly when guests arrive.
