You Are the Chef: Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa

Welcome once again to our “You Are the Chef” series! Today’s culinary journey features a classic protein with a tropical twist: Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken accompanied by a refreshing Mango Salsa. This dish promises a beautiful blend of flavors, ensuring that your dinner plate looks as enticing as it tastes.

Ingredients:

For the Herb-Marinated Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Mango Salsa:

• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely chopped (optional for heat)
• Juice of 1 lime
• A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt, to taste

Optional Sides:

• Grilled vegetables (like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus)
• Cilantro-lime rice

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well-coated, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Prepare the Mango Salsa: In a mixing bowl, combine diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and fresh cilantro. Season with salt, give it a gentle stir, and set aside for the flavors to meld.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
4. Serve: Lay out the grilled chicken on plates and generously top with the mango salsa. Pair with your chosen side – perhaps grilled vegetables or cilantro-lime rice.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Chicken: A lean source of protein, chicken is versatile and pairs well with various flavors and ingredients.
• Mango: Rich in vitamins A and C, mangos add a sweet and tangy dimension to dishes.
• Cilantro: Often used in culinary dishes for its unique flavor, cilantro also provides a good amount of antioxidants.

Chef’s Tips:

1. Safe Marinating: Always marinate chicken in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
2. Let it Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This ensures all the juices are retained, making your chicken moist and flavorful.

There you have it, chefs! A delightful, light, and vibrant dish perfect for any evening, especially a summer night. This dish not only appeals to the taste buds but also to the eyes with its splash of colors. Enjoy your cooking journey, and remember, in your domain, You Are the Chef!

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