Jerk chicken mango slaw has become my go-to for a vibrant, flavorful meal that always tastes like a vacation. I first tried this Jamaican jerk chicken mango slaw at a street food festival, and the explosion of sweet mango, spicy chicken, and tangy slaw was unforgettable. The aroma of the grilling jerk chicken alone was enough to draw me in! It’s amazing how simple ingredients come together to create such a complex and utterly delicious dish. This easy jerk chicken mango slaw recipe brings that island vibe right to my kitchen, and I know you’ll love it too. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw
This isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a flavor party in a bowl! You’ll adore how easily this jerk chicken with mango slaw recipe comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of spicy, tender chicken and the sweet, crisp mango slaw is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s packed with fresh ingredients, offering a healthy yet incredibly satisfying meal. We’ve got those vibrant tropical flavors that transport you straight to the islands. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this amazing Jamaican jerk chicken mango slaw!
- Incredibly flavorful and spicy jerk chicken
- Refreshing and sweet mango slaw
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy
- Healthy and packed with fresh ingredients
- Visually stunning presentation
- Great for weeknight dinners or entertaining
- A taste of the Caribbean in every bite
Ingredients for Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw
Gathering the right components is key for this amazing jerk chicken with mango slaw recipe. This dish brings together tender, spicy chicken with a bright, tropical slaw for a truly satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs – these stay juicy and absorb marinade beautifully
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning – adjust to your spice preference for that authentic Caribbean kick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – helps create a flavorful marinade and aids in cooking
- 1 lime, juiced – for brightness and to tenderize the chicken
- 2 cups thinly sliced green cabbage – the crisp base for our vibrant slaw
- 1 cup shredded carrots – adds sweetness and color
- 1 cup diced mango – ripe mangoes are essential for that sweet, tropical flavor
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro – for a fresh, herbaceous note
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion – offers a sharp bite that balances the sweetness
- Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors
- 1/2 cup sour cream – the base for our creamy dressing
- 2 tablespoons honey – for a touch of sweetness in the dressing
- 1 tablespoon lime juice – adds tang to the cream sauce
- Zest of 1 lime – for an extra burst of citrus aroma and flavor
How to Make Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw
This recipe for jerk chicken with mango slaw is surprisingly simple and comes together quickly. Follow these easy steps to bring a taste of the Caribbean to your table!
- Step 1: Begin by marinating the chicken. In a medium bowl, whisk together the jerk seasoning, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and the juice of 1 lime. Add the 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to truly infuse.
- Step 2: While the chicken marinates, prepare the vibrant mango slaw. In a large bowl, combine the 2 cups thinly sliced green cabbage, 1 cup shredded carrots, 1 cup diced mango, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, and 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion. Toss everything gently to combine. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. The colors will look amazing!
- Step 3: Next, whip up the creamy honey lime dressing. In a small bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and the zest of 1 lime. Stir until smooth and well combined. This dressing adds a lovely sweet and tangy counterpoint to the spicy chicken.
- Step 4: Now it’s time to cook the chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a little extra olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill or pan-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink inside.
- Step 5: Once cooked, let the chicken rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This is crucial for juicy chicken! After resting, slice the chicken into strips for easy layering.
- Step 6: To assemble your delicious jerk chicken mango slaw bowls, start by dividing the prepared mango slaw between four serving bowls. Top the slaw generously with the sliced jerk chicken. Finally, drizzle the creamy honey lime dressing over everything. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if you like.
Marinating the Chicken
Don’t skip this step! Marinating the chicken in the blend of jerk seasoning, olive oil, and lime juice for at least 30 minutes allows those bold, spicy flavors to penetrate deep into the meat. This infusion is what gives the chicken its signature kick and tender texture. For more chicken inspiration, check out this baked lemon rosemary chicken recipe.
Preparing the Mango Slaw
Combine the thinly sliced green cabbage, shredded carrots, diced ripe mango, chopped cilantro, and sliced red onion in a large bowl. Toss gently to mix. A little salt and pepper will enhance the natural sweetness of the mango and the crispness of the vegetables. If you enjoy cabbage-based dishes, you might also like this oven roasted garlic cabbage.
Making the Honey Lime Cream
This simple dressing balances the heat of the jerk chicken. Whisk together sour cream, honey, fresh lime juice, and lime zest until perfectly smooth. It’s a creamy, dreamy addition that ties all the flavors together beautifully. For another creamy delight, try our creamy Tuscan scallops.
Cooking the Jerk Chicken
Whether you’re grilling or pan-frying, aim for a medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The exterior should be nicely charred and fragrant. For a different chicken preparation, consider these buffalo garlic chicken bites.
Assembling the Bowls
Start with a generous bed of the colourful mango slaw. Arrange the sliced, spicy jerk chicken on top. Finish with a luscious drizzle of the honey lime cream dressing. This layered approach ensures every bite is a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Pro Tips for the Best Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw
Want to elevate your jerk chicken with mango slaw game? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make this dish truly sing. These tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and fresh flavors every time you make this easy jerk chicken mango slaw recipe.
- For the deepest flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if you have time.
- Don’t overcook the chicken! It should be juicy and tender, not dry. Use a meat thermometer to be sure.
- Taste and adjust the slaw seasoning as you go. Sometimes a little more salt or lime juice makes all the difference.
- If you can’t find ripe mangoes, frozen and thawed mango chunks can work in a pinch, though they might be a bit softer.
What’s the secret to perfect Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw?
The real secret is in the balance! Using quality jerk seasoning, letting the chicken marinate properly, and ensuring your mangoes are perfectly ripe are key. This creates that authentic Jamaican jerk chicken mango slaw experience with every bite.
Can I make Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead. Prepare the slaw and dressing separately and store them in the fridge. Combine everything just before serving to keep the slaw crisp and the chicken fresh.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw?
A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which makes it dry. Another is not using ripe mangoes, which affects the sweetness. Also, be sure to dress your slaw right before serving to maintain its crunchiness.
Best Ways to Serve Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw
This vibrant jerk chicken with tropical slaw is so versatile! It’s fantastic served as a hearty main course in bowls, just as we’ve outlined. For a lighter option, you can serve the jerk chicken recipe with mango slaw over a bed of fluffy rice and peas or quinoa. It also makes an incredible filling for tacos or wraps, adding a spicy, sweet kick. I love pairing it with a side of sweet plantains or some grilled corn on the cob to complement the Caribbean flavors. This dish is truly a celebration on a plate! For another bowl-style meal, consider these Greek chicken bowls.
Nutrition Facts for Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw
This jerk chicken mango slaw is a delicious and relatively healthy meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (based on the recipe yielding 4 servings):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For more healthy options, explore our dinner recipes.
How to Store and Reheat Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw
Properly storing your delicious jerk chicken with tropical slaw will ensure it stays fresh and flavorful. Once cooled completely, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. You can keep the components separate if you plan to reheat them individually, or store the assembled bowls. This easy jerk chicken mango slaw recipe stores well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, cooked jerk chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, there are a few ways to reheat. For the chicken, you can gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave it until heated through. The slaw is best served cold, so keep it chilled. If you froze the chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes enjoying your jerk chicken mango slaw leftovers incredibly convenient!
Frequently Asked Questions About Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw
What is jerk chicken mango slaw?
Jerk chicken mango slaw is a vibrant dish that combines the bold, spicy flavors of marinated jerk chicken with a refreshing, sweet, and tangy mango slaw. It’s a fantastic fusion of Caribbean heat and tropical sweetness, often served as a main dish or a substantial side. The slaw typically includes ingredients like cabbage, carrots, mango, cilantro, and red onion, providing a cool contrast to the warm, spiced chicken.
Can I make the jerk chicken mango slaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken for the jerk chicken with mango slaw recipe up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor. Prepare the mango slaw and the honey lime dressing separately and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, when you’re ready to eat, you just need to cook the chicken and assemble everything. It’s a great way to do some meal prep!
What kind of jerk seasoning should I use for the best flavor?
For the most authentic flavor in your Jamaican jerk chicken mango slaw, I recommend using a good quality store-bought jerk seasoning blend, or even better, making your own! Look for blends that include allspice, thyme, scotch bonnet peppers (or habaneros for a milder kick), garlic, ginger, and onion. The quality of your seasoning significantly impacts the final taste of the chicken. You can learn more about the origins and ingredients of jerk seasoning from resources like Serious Eats.
Can I substitute the chicken thighs for another protein?
Yes, you can definitely get creative with your jerk chicken mango slaw variations! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work, though they can dry out faster. For a different protein, grilled shrimp or firm tofu marinated in the jerk seasoning are excellent alternatives. Even firm white fish like mahi-mahi or snapper would be delicious.
Variations of Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw You Can Try
This jerk chicken with tropical slaw is so adaptable, you can tweak it to fit your preferences or what you have on hand! Get ready to explore some fun jerk chicken mango slaw variations that keep things exciting.
- Spicy Mango Salsa Twist: Instead of a slaw, try a vibrant mango salsa! Combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice for a punchier flavor that works wonderfully with the jerk chicken. This is a fantastic way to add extra zing without the cabbage.
- Grilled Shrimp Option: Not a fan of chicken? Swap it out for large shrimp marinated in the jerk seasoning. Grill them for just 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. They cook much faster, making for an even quicker meal.
- Vegetarian Tofu Delight: For a plant-based version, use firm or extra-firm tofu. Press it well to remove excess water, then cube it and marinate it in the jerk seasoning mixture. Pan-fry or bake until golden and slightly crispy – it holds the spicy flavor beautifully.
- Sweet Potato Base: Serve your jerk chicken and slaw over roasted sweet potato cubes instead of rice or greens. The natural sweetness of the sweet potato complements the spicy jerk chicken and cool slaw perfectly, adding another layer of flavor and texture.
Jerk Chicken Mango Slaw: Amazing Island Flavor
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowl recipe features spicy, marinated jerk chicken served with a refreshing mango slaw and a creamy honey lime dressing. It’s an easy and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 cups thinly sliced green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup diced mango
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Combine jerk seasoning, olive oil, and lime juice in a bowl. Add chicken thighs, coat well, and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the mango slaw: In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, mango, cilantro, and red onion. Toss and season with salt and pepper.
- Make the honey lime cream: Mix sour cream, honey, lime juice, and lime zest until combined.
- Cook the chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest.
- Slice the chicken: Slice the cooked jerk chicken into strips.
- Assemble the bowls: Layer mango slaw in serving bowls, top with sliced jerk chicken, and drizzle with honey lime cream.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe mangoes and fresh vegetables.
- Adjust the amount of jerk seasoning to control the spice level.
- You can add other herbs like mint or basil to the slaw.
- For a tropical twist, add diced pineapple to the slaw.
- Shrimp or grilled tofu can be used as alternatives to chicken.
- Quinoa can be used as a base instead of rice or tortillas.
- Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Jerk chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg