Name: Sesame Mango Chicken: A Quick and Tasty Skillet Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (diced for quick cooking); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (can use fresh for bolder flavor); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (crucial for flavor); 2 tablespoons Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce (or regular if needed); 1 tablespoon Hoisin Sauce (or teriyaki for similar effect); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (adjust to taste); 4 cups Coleslaw Mix (any mix of shredded cabbage and carrots); 1 cup Mango (diced, fresh or frozen); 1/4 cup Peanuts (or cashews as substitute); 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (for crunch); 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (optional)

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A delightful sizzle fills the kitchen as tender chicken meets the nutty embrace of sesame oil. This One-Skillet Sesame Mango Chicken not only looks stunning with its vibrant colors but also delivers remarkable flavor in just 15 minutes. Perfect for those of us tired of fast food, the combination of juicy mango and crunchy veggies offers a refreshing twist on the classic takeout dish. Plus, it’s both healthy and low-carb, making it a guilt-free indulgence that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this easy, Asian-inspired recipe that’s as simple as it is scrumptious!

Why is Sesame Mango Chicken a must-try?

Quick Prep Time: In just 15 minutes, you can transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Vibrant Flavors: The juicy mango and crispy veggies provide a delightful burst of freshness, elevating your meal beyond typical weeknight fare.
One-Skillet Wonder: This easy recipe simplifies cleanup as everything cooks in just one skillet. Who doesn’t love a quick and hassle-free dinner?
Healthy and Delicious: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish caters to those looking for low-carb, gluten-free, and dairy-free options without sacrificing flavor.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Its irresistible combination of textures and tastes is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a hit for the whole family. Try serving it alongside Broccoli Chicken Penne for another deliciously quick meal option!

Sesame Mango Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast – diced for quick cooking and extra tenderness.
• Garlic – fresh minced garlic enhances the aromatic flavor; always a winner.
• Ground Ginger – elevates the taste; you can use fresh ginger for an even bolder flavor.

For the Sauce
• Sesame Oil – crucial for authentic sesame chicken flavor; don’t skip this!
• Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce – brings umami richness; regular soy sauce can be used if needed.
• Hoisin Sauce – adds sweetness and depth; feel free to swap in teriyaki sauce for a similar effect.
• Black Pepper – adjust to taste for seasoning; a little goes a long way!

For the Veggies
• Coleslaw Mix – provides crunch and nutrition; any mix of shredded cabbage and carrots works too.
• Mango – adds a fabulous sweetness; both fresh and frozen options are great here.

For Garnishing
• Fresh Cilantro – used for a refreshing finish; can be omitted if you prefer.
• Sesame Seeds – not just for aesthetics, they add a delightful crunch.
• Peanuts – offers a satisfying crunch; cashews make a perfect substitute as well.

You’re well on your way to creating a sensational Sesame Mango Chicken dish that will have everyone raving about dinner tonight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sesame Mango Chicken

Step 1: Cook Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute. Add the diced boneless skinless chicken breast, cooking for 5 minutes. Flip the chicken pieces occasionally until they are golden and cooked through, with no pink remaining.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Once the chicken is nicely browned, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and golden but not burnt. This step enhances the flavor profile of your Sesame Mango Chicken beautifully.

Step 3: Wilt Vegetables
Introduce 4 cups of coleslaw mix to the skillet, followed by a drizzle of 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce and 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce. Stir well to combine and cook for another 5 minutes, until the cabbage is wilted and tender, yet still vibrant. The scents will start to fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Remove the skillet from heat and immediately fold in 1 cup of diced mango and 1/4 cup of peanuts. Gently toss everything together until the mango is coated and warmed through. This final mix adds a delightful contrast of flavors and textures to your Sesame Mango Chicken.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
To finish, sprinkle the dish with fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds for an appealing finish. Serve the warm Sesame Mango Chicken immediately on a bed of your favorite rice, and savor the fusion of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements that will elevate your dining experience.

What to Serve with Sesame Mango Chicken

The colorful combination of tender chicken and fresh mango creates a delightful canvas for your meal, inviting complementary flavors to shine.

Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice complements the dish perfectly, soaking up the savory-sweet sauce while adding a delicate fragrance.
Quinoa Salad: This nutty, protein-rich side dish adds a delightful texture contrast and a healthy touch to balance the flavors of the chicken.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy, veggie-packed rolls bring a satisfying bite and a nostalgic nod to classic Asian takeout.
Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, a cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame dressing provides a cool contrast to the warm chicken.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green, tender broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also enhances the nutrition of your meal.
Peanut Sauce Dipping Sauce: A small bowl of creamy peanut sauce on the side makes a perfect dip for the chicken or vegetables, enriching the meal with rich, nutty flavors.
Light Beer or Sparkling Water: Refreshing beverages help cleanse the palate between bites, making the sweetness of the mango stand out even more.
Mango Sorbet: For a light dessert, mango sorbet mirrors the flavors of the chicken while providing a refreshing finish to your meal.

How to Store and Freeze Sesame Mango Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain texture and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze the Sesame Mango Chicken in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating: For optimal texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to steam and revive the dish without drying it out.

Serving Suggestions: Consider serving reheated Sesame Mango Chicken over fresh greens or grains to refresh the meal and add variety to your plate.

Expert Tips for Sesame Mango Chicken

Perfectly Diced Chicken: Ensure your chicken is diced into small, even pieces to promote quick and even cooking. This avoids undercooked or overcooked bits in your Sesame Mango Chicken.
Watch the Mango: If using frozen mango, add it at the very end of cooking to prevent mushiness. Fresh mango can also be swapped in for a sweeter, firmer texture.
Adjust Sauces: Taste as you go! Adjust the soy sauce and hoisin sauce quantities based on your preferences for sweetness and saltiness to achieve the ideal balance in your dish.
Extra Crunch: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper or some diced bell peppers for added crunch and color. They complement the sweet mango beautifully.
Prep Ahead: Chop your ingredients beforehand or use a coleslaw mix for the veggies to save time. This preparation makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

Sesame Mango Chicken Variations

Embrace your culinary creativity with these delightful twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a slightly sweet, soy-free alternative that’s just as tasty.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular soy sauce for tamari to maintain the rich flavors while keeping it gluten-free.
Add More Veggies: Toss in extra vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrients. It’s a great way to increase the freshness of the dish.
Spicy Kick: For some heat, add crushed red pepper or Sriracha during cooking. This complimentary spice enhances the sweetness of the mango beautifully.
Tropical Twist: Substitute mango with pineapple for a fun fruity variation. The tartness of pineapple adds a new flavor dimension to your dish.
Nut-Free Option: Omit peanuts and use sunflower seeds instead for a crunchy topping that’s safe for nut-free diets.
Leafy Greens: Replace coleslaw mix with baby spinach or kale for a nutrient-packed twist; these greens will wilt nicely with the warmth of the skillet.

For a complete meal idea, pair your Sesame Mango Chicken with Garlic Butter Chicken or experiment with a refreshing side of Savory Chicken Flatbread. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Sesame Mango Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can dice the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can mix the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce in advance and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, keep the diced mango and peanuts separate until you’re ready to assemble the dish, as this prevents sogginess and keeps the crunch intact. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the oil, sauté the chicken with the prepped aromatics, wilt the cabbage, and fold in the mango and peanuts for an effortlessly delicious meal!

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Sesame Mango Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe mangoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing mangoes, look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma. The skin may have some dark spots, which is fine, but avoid any mangoes with extensive bruising. If fresh mango is out of season, frozen mango works well too; just make sure to thaw it before cooking.

How should I store leftover Sesame Mango Chicken?
To keep it fresh, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s best to reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain its delicious texture and flavor. You could add a splash of water to help revive its moisture while reheating.

Can I freeze Sesame Mango Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely before portioning it into bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop. For the best results, add a little water while reheating to keep it from drying out.

What can I do if the chicken turns out dry?
If your chicken is dry, I recommend that you always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F internally. For next time, consider dicing the chicken into smaller pieces to ensure quicker cooking, and avoid overcooking. You can also toss some broth or a bit of additional hoisin sauce into the skillet while reheating for added moisture.

Is this recipe suitable for various dietary preferences?
Very! Sesame Mango Chicken is both gluten-free and dairy-free, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions. However, if you have a peanut allergy, feel free to substitute peanuts with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. Just be mindful of the soy sauce if you’re avoiding gluten—look for gluten-free versions available in most grocery stores.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sesame Mango Chicken?
Of course! If you don’t have a specific ingredient, there are plenty of alternatives. For example, you can substitute the coleslaw mix with spinach or kale for added nutrition, and swap mango with pineapple for a tropical twist. Don’t hesitate to experiment with vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for more color and nutrition!