Thai Peanut Chicken Mango: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Thai Peanut Chicken Mango: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand! Imagine succulent chicken, bathed in a creamy, savory peanut sauce, perfectly complemented by the sweet and tangy burst of fresh mango. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

While not a traditional dish steeped in centuries of Thai history, Thai Peanut Chicken Mango represents the beautiful fusion of flavors that modern Thai cuisine embraces. It’s a testament to the innovative spirit of Thai chefs who expertly blend traditional ingredients with contemporary tastes. The peanut sauce, a staple in many Southeast Asian dishes, provides a rich and nutty base, while the mango adds a refreshing twist that elevates the entire dish.

What makes this recipe so irresistible? It’s the symphony of textures and tastes. The tender chicken, the smooth peanut sauce, the juicy mango – each element plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious and unforgettable dining experience. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This Thai Peanut Chicken Mango recipe is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The combination of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more. Get ready to discover your new favorite dish!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Peanut Sauce:
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup water (or more, to thin to desired consistency)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• For the Mango Salsa:
• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt to taste
• For Serving:
• Cooked rice (jasmine or brown rice recommended)
• Chopped peanuts, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. This step is crucial for building flavor right from the start!
2. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken.
3. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink inside. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. We’ll add it back in later when we incorporate the peanut sauce.

Making the Peanut Sauce:

1. Now, let’s whip up that delicious peanut sauce! In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, lime juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. Add the water, a little at a time, whisking until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. I usually start with 1/4 cup and add more if I want it thinner. Remember, you can always add more water, but you can’t take it away!
3. If you’re adding red pepper flakes for a little kick, stir them in now. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more lime juice for tanginess, honey for sweetness, or soy sauce for saltiness.

Combining Chicken and Peanut Sauce:

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
2. Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are evenly coated.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce. This step is important for creating a cohesive and flavorful dish. The sauce should thicken slightly as it simmers.

Preparing the Mango Salsa:

1. While the chicken is simmering in the peanut sauce, let’s prepare the refreshing mango salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mangoes, diced red bell pepper, finely diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño (if using).
2. Add the lime juice and salt to taste. Gently toss everything together to combine.
3. Taste the salsa and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more lime juice for tanginess or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
4. Let the salsa sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will make it even more delicious!

Serving the Thai Peanut Chicken with Mango Salsa:

1. Cook your rice according to package directions. Jasmine rice is a great choice for its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture, but brown rice works well too for a healthier option.
2. Spoon the cooked rice into bowls.
3. Top the rice with the Thai peanut chicken.
4. Spoon a generous amount of the mango salsa over the chicken. The cool, sweet, and tangy salsa perfectly complements the rich and savory peanut chicken.
5. Garnish with chopped peanuts and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
6. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime juice adds a final burst of freshness to the dish.

Tips and Variations:

• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay moist during cooking. Just be sure to trim any excess fat before cutting them into cubes.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Press the tofu to remove excess water before cubing and cooking it.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to control the spice level. If you’re sensitive to heat, omit them altogether.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables to the dish, such as broccoli florets, bell peppers, or snap peas. Stir-fry the vegetables before adding the chicken and peanut sauce.
• Peanut Butter: Use natural peanut butter for a healthier option. Just be aware that natural peanut butter tends to be thinner, so you might need to adjust the amount of water in the sauce.
• Sweetener: You can use honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar as a sweetener in the peanut sauce. Adjust the amount to your liking.
• Make Ahead: The peanut sauce and mango salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The chicken can also be cooked ahead of time and reheated before serving.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Enjoy!

This Thai Peanut Chicken with Mango Salsa is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The combination of savory peanut chicken, sweet and tangy mango salsa, and fluffy rice is simply irresistible. I hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Thai Peanut Chicken Mango recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to a bustling Bangkok street market! The creamy peanut sauce, the juicy chicken, and the sweet, tangy mango create a symphony of textures and tastes that’s simply irresistible. I truly believe this is a must-try dish for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their culinary repertoire. Why is it a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. The ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, and the entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes. But more importantly, it’s the sheer deliciousness that sets this recipe apart. The combination of savory, sweet, and spicy is perfectly balanced, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it to your family, friends, or even just yourself!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving this Thai Peanut Chicken Mango. I personally love serving it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, which soaks up all that delicious peanut sauce. But you could also try it with quinoa for a healthier option, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. For a complete meal, consider adding some steamed broccoli, stir-fried bok choy, or a simple cucumber salad on the side. A sprinkle of chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro adds a final touch of elegance and flavor. And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute it with tofu, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the peanut sauce. You can also adjust the amount of mango to your liking, depending on how sweet you want the dish to be. Another variation I’ve enjoyed is adding some shredded carrots and bell peppers to the stir-fry for extra color and nutrients. A squeeze of lime juice at the end brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty touch.

Ready to Cook?

I’m confident that you’ll absolutely love this Thai Peanut Chicken Mango recipe. It’s a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Thai flavors in your own home. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Please feel free to share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see what you create! Don’t forget to tag me in your photos on social media – I’d love to see your culinary creations! Let’s spread the love for this amazing dish and inspire others to try it too. Enjoy!

Print