Mango Habanero Chicken Bites
Tropical Mango Meets Fiery Habanero for the Ultimate Chicken Bite
Inspired by Caribbean and Latin American flavors, these Mango Habanero Chicken Bites balance sweet mango with spicy habanero for a bold, mouthwatering dish. Perfect as a fiery appetizer or a flavorful weeknight dinner.
30-Minute Sweet & Spicy Mango Habanero Chicken Bites – Quick & Easy Chicken Appetizer Recipe
DifficultyEasy
Servings4
Prep time10 minutes
Cook time20 minutes
Total time30 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Mango Habanero Sauce:
- 1 ripe mango, (peeled and diced)
- 1 small habanero pepper, (seeds removed for less heat, or kept for more heat)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- 1
Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Arrange the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 2
Cook the Chicken:
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
- 3
Make the Mango Habanero Sauce:
- While the chicken is cooking, combine the mango, habanero pepper, honey, lime juice, soy sauce, and grated ginger in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- 4
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the mango habanero sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- 5
Serve:
- Serve immediately as a sweet and spicy chicken appetizer, garnished with cilantro or green onions if desired. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes & Variations:
Substitutions:
- For a milder version, replace the habanero pepper with a jalapeño pepper.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: You can swap the chicken for tofu or cauliflower florets for a plant-based alternative.
Pro Tips:
- Control the spice level by adjusting the amount of habanero or removing the seeds entirely.
- If you want extra crispiness on the chicken, try broiling for the last 2 minutes of cooking time.
- Let the sauce thicken on the stove to get a syrup-like consistency that clings better to the chicken bites.
FAQs:
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- The chicken can be roasted and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken and toss it in the sauce right before serving.
Can I use frozen chicken?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it fully before cutting it into bite-sized pieces and cooking it.
Storage & Reheating Instructions:
- Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition
| Calories | 290 |
| Carbohydrates | 19g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Sugar | 14g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 10g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration
Mango habanero chicken bites are an exciting fusion of tropical sweetness and fiery spice, drawing inspiration from the vibrant flavors of Caribbean and Latin American cuisine. Mango and habanero peppers are often paired together to create a balance of heat and sweetness, making this dish a favorite for those who crave bold flavors. This sweet and spicy chicken recipe elevates simple chicken bites into a mouthwatering appetizer that’s perfect for parties or weeknight dinners.
The Art of Cooking Parts of the Recipe
The magic of this recipe lies in the mango habanero sauce. The ripe mango adds a natural sweetness, which is contrasted by the heat of the habanero pepper. Cooking the sauce on the stove thickens it into a glossy coating that clings beautifully to the chicken. Roasting the chicken gives it a crispy exterior, while the seasoning ensures each bite is flavorful from the inside out.
Interesting Things About the Recipe
This 30-minute chicken bites recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a quick chicken appetizer. With just 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes in the oven, it’s the perfect recipe for last-minute gatherings or casual dinners. It’s versatile too – you can easily adjust the spice level depending on your preferences.
Overview of the Parts of the Recipe
- Chicken Bites: Tender, juicy chicken pieces that are roasted to perfection and seasoned with savory spices.
- Mango Habanero Sauce: A blend of sweet mango, spicy habanero, and tangy lime that makes the perfect sauce to coat the chicken.
- Serving: Serve these chicken bites as an appetizer or snack at your next party or get-together.
What Occasions It’s Good For
- Party Chicken Bites: These spicy, flavorful bites are perfect for any party, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
- Quick Weeknight Dinner: A fantastic easy chicken appetizer for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Appetizer for BBQs: These sweet chicken appetizer bites pair wonderfully with grilled meats and are a great addition to any barbecue or cookout.
Why It’s the Perfect Recipe
The balance of sweet and spicy chicken in this dish makes it an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to spice up your dinner routine, these mango habanero chicken bites will impress every time. It’s quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors that everyone will love.
