This Asian Mango Chicken Stir-Fry is a delightful fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, bringing together crispy golden chicken, juicy mango chunks, and a rich, flavorful sauce. The vibrant bell peppers and onions add crunch, while the sweet chili and soy sauce tie everything together in a perfect harmony of taste. Perfect for summer meals or when you crave something exotic, this dish is easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors. Serve it over jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal that will impress your family and guests. Whether you love Asian cuisine or just want a new twist on classic chicken dishes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (500 g) skinless boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size cubes
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper powder
- Neutral-flavored oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped garlic
- 2-3 green chilies, chopped
- 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons red chili paste
- 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper powder
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 1 cup water (slurry)
- 1 cup ripe mango, cubed
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Directions:
-
Fry the Chicken:
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, ginger garlic paste, salt, and black pepper powder.
- Coat the chicken pieces in this mixture.
- Heat oil in a pan over high heat and fry the chicken in batches until crispy and golden brown. Set aside.
-
Make the Sauce:
- Heat oil in a wok over high heat.
- Add chopped garlic and green chilies, frying for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in onions and bell peppers, sautéing for about a minute.
- Add soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, red chili paste, tomato ketchup, rice vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Pour in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.
- Add fried chicken and mango cubes, tossing everything together until well coated.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve immediately with jasmine rice or noodles.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 431 kcal | Servings: 4
What Makes This Dish Special?
Mango Chicken Stir-Fry stands out because of its unique combination of flavors. It’s not just another chicken stir-fry – the addition of mango elevates the dish, giving it a naturally sweet and juicy touch that pairs beautifully with the bold, spicy elements of the sauce.
The crispy texture of the fried chicken adds a satisfying crunch, while the bell peppers and onions provide a slight crunch and a pop of color. The sauce, made with a blend of soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, and red chili paste, ties everything together with a rich umami taste.
The Origin of Mango Chicken
While Mango Chicken is commonly associated with Asian cuisine, especially Chinese-style stir-fries, variations of this dish can be found in different culinary traditions. Some Thai versions incorporate coconut milk for extra creaminess, while Indian variations may include a blend of aromatic spices like cumin and garam masala.
This particular version of Mango Chicken Stir-Fry is inspired by Chinese-style cooking, where crispy fried chicken is coated in a thick, flavorful sauce. It’s a fusion dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy bold and exciting taste combinations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy to Prepare
This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights. The simple preparation steps – frying the chicken, making the sauce, and tossing everything together – ensure that you can have a restaurant-quality meal at home without much effort.
2. Perfect Balance of Flavors
The contrast of sweet mango, savory chicken, and spicy sauce makes this dish an absolute treat for your taste buds. Each bite is packed with layers of flavors, from the deep umami of soy sauce to the gentle heat of chili.
3. Highly Customizable
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef. The vegetables can also be adjusted based on what you have on hand – snap peas, broccoli, or carrots would all be excellent additions. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of chili paste or omit it altogether.
4. Great for Meal Prep
If you’re someone who likes to plan meals in advance, this dish is perfect for meal prep. The chicken can be fried ahead of time and stored separately from the sauce. When ready to eat, simply reheat everything together for a fresh and delicious meal.
5. A Fantastic Summer Dish
Mangoes are at their peak during the summer months, making this dish an excellent way to use up ripe, juicy mangoes. The natural sweetness of the mango pairs wonderfully with the spicy and tangy sauce, creating a refreshing yet hearty meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Mango Chicken Stir-Fry is best served with a side of rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. Here are a few pairing ideas:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The mild and fragrant jasmine rice balances the bold flavors of the stir-fry.
- Garlic Fried Rice: If you want to elevate your meal, garlic fried rice adds extra flavor and texture.
- Stir-Fried Noodles: Lo mein or rice noodles make a great base for this dish.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the mango chicken in lettuce wraps for a refreshing twist.
You can also pair this dish with a refreshing drink, such as a mango lassi, iced green tea, or a citrus-infused sparkling water.
Tips for Making the Best Mango Chicken Stir-Fry
1. Choose the Right Mango
For the best results, use a ripe yet firm mango. Overly soft mangoes may become too mushy in the stir-fry, while unripe mangoes might not provide enough sweetness. Look for mangoes that have a slight give when pressed but still hold their shape when diced.
2. Double-Fry for Extra Crispiness
If you want ultra-crispy chicken, try double-frying it. Fry the chicken once until it’s lightly golden, then let it rest for a few minutes. Fry it again at a higher temperature for extra crunch.
3. Adjust the Spice Level
The spice level of this dish can be easily customized. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add extra chili paste or toss in some red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder version, simply reduce or omit the chilies.
4. Don’t Overcook the Mango
Mangoes should be added towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their freshness and texture. Cooking them for too long can cause them to break down and lose their distinct taste.
5. Experiment with Different Proteins
If you’re not in the mood for chicken, you can easily substitute it with shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef. Each protein will bring a unique texture and flavor to the dish.
Health Benefits of Mango Chicken Stir-Fry
Not only is this dish delicious, but it also offers some nutritional benefits:
- High in Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which helps in muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Vitamins: Mangoes are packed with vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants that support immune health and skin vitality.
- Good Source of Fiber: The vegetables in this dish provide dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and overall gut health.
- Balanced Macronutrients: With a combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, this dish provides a well-balanced meal.
Conclusion:
Asian Mango Chicken Stir-Fry is a fantastic dish that brings together the best of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. With its crispy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and luscious mango, it offers a perfect balance of taste and texture.
Best of all, it’s highly customizable and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Serve it over rice or noodles, adjust the spice level to your preference, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.