Mango Chicken Thighs with Basil-Coconut Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Mango Chicken Thighs with Basil-Coconut Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the sweet and tangy notes of ripe mango, the richness of coconut milk, and the aromatic freshness of basil, all paired with succulent, tender chicken thighs. This dish offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with the basil-coconut sauce acting as the perfect complement to the juicy chicken thighs. It’s an exciting twist on classic chicken recipes, ideal for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight meals or impress guests at a dinner party.

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe is relatively easy to prepare and guarantees a delicious, restaurant-quality meal. The tropical flavors of mango and coconut make this dish a refreshing choice for warm weather or when you want to add some exotic flair to your dinner rotation. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of preparing Mango Chicken Thighs with Basil-Coconut Sauce, provide helpful tips, and suggest ways to customize the dish to your tastes.

Why You’ll Love Mango Chicken Thighs with Basil-Coconut Sauce

• Tropical Flavors: The combination of mango and coconut brings a tropical flair to the dish, offering a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic elements that are simply irresistible.
• Tender Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are known for their tenderness and juiciness, making them an ideal choice for this dish. They absorb the flavors of the basil-coconut sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
• Coconut Basil Sauce: The creamy, rich coconut milk sauce is infused with fresh basil, giving the dish a fragrant, slightly herbal flavor that perfectly complements the sweet mango. It’s a sauce that elevates the entire dish.
• Quick and Easy: Despite its complex flavors, this dish comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a dinner party. It requires simple ingredients and minimal effort while delivering big, bold flavors.
• Customizable: The recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the sweetness or heat level, depending on your preferences. You can easily make it spicier or milder by adding more or less chili, or you can even switch up the fruit with alternatives like pineapple for a different tropical twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the size of the chicken thighs and the ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 15-18g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 12-15g

Ingredients

For the Mango Chicken Thighs:

• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or boneless, skinless if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (for marinade)
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Basil-Coconut Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-2 fresh Thai or red chilies, minced (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free version)
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a lighter option)
• Juice of 1 lime

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Start by prepping the chicken thighs. If you’re using bone-in, skinless thighs, remove any excess fat and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This will help the chicken brown nicely when searing.

In a small bowl, combine the cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs. For an added depth of flavor, drizzle the thighs with fresh lime juice and allow them to marinate for 10-15 minutes. This will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with the spices.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down (or the smoother side, if using boneless thighs). Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. If you’re using bone-in thighs, the cooking time will be a bit longer. The chicken should be cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Once seared, transfer the chicken thighs to a plate and set them aside. If there’s any excess oil in the pan, you can drain it, leaving just enough to sauté the aromatics for the sauce.

3. Make the Basil-Coconut Sauce

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the minced ginger, garlic, and chilies (if using) to the pan. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is fragrant and the garlic has softened. This will create a flavorful base for the sauce.

Next, pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The coconut milk will create a rich, creamy sauce.

Stir in the soy sauce (or tamari), honey, and lime juice. Continue to simmer the sauce for another 3-4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. Once the sauce is slightly reduced, add in the chopped basil and stir until the basil wilts and infuses the sauce with its fresh, aromatic flavor.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet with the basil-coconut sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s well-coated. Cover the pan with a lid and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce and cook through if needed.

While the chicken finishes cooking, add the chopped mango into the sauce, stirring gently to incorporate. The heat from the sauce will soften the mango slightly, infusing it with the delicious basil-coconut flavors.

5. Serve the Mango Chicken Thighs

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Plate the chicken thighs and spoon the basil-coconut sauce with mango over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and additional basil for a fresh, herbaceous finish. For a final touch, a squeeze of lime juice just before serving will brighten the dish even more.

Tips for Perfect Mango Chicken Thighs with Basil-Coconut Sauce

• Use Bone-In Thighs for Extra Flavor: Bone-in chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless, skinless thighs. However, boneless thighs will work as well and cook slightly faster.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili or use a hotter variety. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little extra kick.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After searing the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before adding it back into the sauce. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and moist.
• Fresh Mango is Key: Using a ripe, fresh mango adds sweetness and juiciness to the dish. If fresh mango is not in season, you can substitute frozen mango, though fresh will provide the best flavor and texture.
• Make the Sauce Ahead: You can prepare the basil-coconut sauce ahead of time, refrigerating it for up to 2 days. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve the chicken for a quicker meal.
• Serve with Rice or Quinoa: To make this dish more filling, serve it over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The sauce soaks into the grains, making them even more delicious.

Variations of Mango Chicken Thighs with Basil-Coconut Sauce

• Pineapple Chicken Thighs: Swap out the mango for pineapple for a different tropical flavor. Pineapple adds a tart sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the basil-coconut sauce.
• Grilled Mango Chicken: For a smoky twist, grill the chicken thighs instead of searing them in a skillet. The charred flavor from the grill will add depth to the dish.
• Spicy Mango Chicken: For those who like extra heat, add more chilies to the sauce or top the dish with a drizzle of chili oil or sriracha for added spice.
• Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this dish plant-based. The coconut sauce is rich enough to complement these ingredients beautifully.

Storage and Shelf Life

Mango Chicken Thighs with Basil-Coconut Sauce is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later. After the chicken has cooled, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and sauce. Place the cooked chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container and pour the sauce over them. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in a skillet or oven until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Mango Chicken Thighs with Basil-Coconut Sauce

This dish pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides that complement its tropical flavors:

• Coconut Rice: Make rice with coconut milk for a rich and fragrant accompaniment that pairs perfectly with the coconut sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve the chicken with steamed green beans, asparagus, or a medley of colorful veggies to balance the richness of the sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with a citrusy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the coconut sauce.
• Naan or Flatbread: Serve with naan or flatbread to scoop up the flavorful sauce, making for a fun and interactive meal.

Print

Conclusion

Mango Chicken Thighs with Basil-Coconut Sauce is a wonderfully vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of mango, the richness of coconut, and the fresh, aromatic flavor of basil. It’s the perfect combination of savory and sweet, with a creamy sauce that elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness. This recipe is easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration. With its tropical flavors and juicy chicken thighs, it’s sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire!