Description
This vibrant grilled chicken recipe features tender, marinated chicken breasts topped with a refreshing mango watermelon salsa, perfect for a healthy and flavorful summer meal. The combination of sweet fruit salsa and smoky grilled chicken creates a delightful balance of flavors that is both light and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- Cooking spray
For the Mango Watermelon Salsa
- 2 cups watermelon, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- 1 cup mango, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons jalapeño pepper, finely chopped and seeded
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine the oregano, extra virgin olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and minced garlic in a large ziplock bag. Add the chicken breasts and massage the marinade around to coat the chicken evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat and Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat. Spray the grill rack lightly with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on the first side, then flip and grill for another 3 to 5 minutes on the other side. Check for an internal temperature of 160-165°F to ensure thorough cooking.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and cover with foil. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to redistribute the juices and keep the chicken moist.
- Prepare the Mango Watermelon Salsa: In a bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, mango cubes, chopped red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, sugar, and salt. Toss gently to blend the flavors well. This salsa can be made a day in advance to deepen the taste.
- Serve: Plate the grilled chicken breasts and top them generously with the fresh mango watermelon salsa. Serve immediately for a delicious summer meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken up to 4 hours enhances flavor and tenderness.
- The salsa can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated to allow flavors to meld.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- Resting the chicken after grilling ensures juicy, tender meat.
- Use fresh, ripe mango and watermelon for the best salsa flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 222 kcal
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 578 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 72 mg
