Bringing a burst of tropical flavors to your table, these Mango Scotch Bonnet Chicken Tacos are a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy. The juicy chicken, marinated and grilled to perfection, is topped with a vibrant mango scotch bonnet sauce that adds a delicious kick. Paired with a crispy cabbage salad, these tacos are not only flavorful but also refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for a summer barbecue, a weeknight dinner, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something unique and delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe and create these mouthwatering tacos that are sure to become a favorite!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Mango Scotch Bonnet Sauce:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Crispy Cabbage Salad:
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, jerk seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other components.
- Prepare the Mango Scotch Bonnet Sauce:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the diced mango, Scotch bonnet pepper, lime juice, honey, and chopped cilantro.
- Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Prepare the Crispy Cabbage Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil, then toss to combine.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the marinated chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and charred.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a skillet.
- Fill each tortilla with sliced chicken, a generous spoonful of mango scotch bonnet sauce, and a handful of crispy cabbage salad.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips for Success:
- Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper in the sauce to suit your spice preference.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken for a longer period, up to overnight.
- Serve with extra toppings like avocado slices, pickled red onions, or queso fresco for a more indulgent taco experience.
These Mango Scotch Bonnet Chicken Tacos are a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the tropics to your table. The combination of spicy chicken, sweet and tangy mango sauce, and crispy cabbage salad creates a deliciously balanced taco that’s perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy these delightful tacos that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
