Spicy Mango Tacos

Name: Spicy Mango Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts or firm tofu, cubed; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 avocado, sliced; 8 small corn tortillas; Lime wedges, for serving

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 14 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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If you're looking for a dinner that's quick to whip up and packed with flavor, these Spicy Mango Tacos are a must-try. Combining juicy chicken or tofu with a refreshing mango salsa, this dish is perfect for those who crave a little heat with a touch of sweetness.

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Ingredients for Spicy Mango Tacos

The protein star of this dish is either chicken breasts or firm tofu, depending on your dietary preference. The olive oil helps to coat the protein in a blend of spices: chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, which infuse it with a warm, smoky heat. The ripe mango adds a refreshing sweetness that balances the spices, while the red onion and jalapeno bring a sharp, tangy kick. Cilantro and lime juice add a fresh, zesty finish to the salsa. To round it off, avocado provides a creamy texture, and corn tortillas act as the perfect vessel to bring all these flavors together.

Tips & Tricks

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken or tofu in the spice mix for up to an hour before cooking.
If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of jalapeno or cayenne pepper.
Use a hot pan to ensure a good sear on the protein, adding flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

These tacos pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a simple black bean salad. For a refreshing beverage, try serving with a chilled glass of mango lassi or a light beer to complement the spicy and sweet flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different fruit instead of mango?: Absolutely! Pineapple or peach would work nicely here, providing a similar sweet contrast to the spicy elements.
How can I make this dish vegan?: Simply opt for tofu as your protein and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.
Can I prepare the salsa in advance?: Yes, the salsa can be made a few hours ahead and kept in the fridge. Just give it a stir before serving.

Spicy Mango Tacos Recipe Walkthrough

Start by getting your protein ready. In a medium bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil with 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Toss in your cubed chicken breasts or tofu, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let that sit for a minute while you heat up your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

Once your cooking surface is hot, lay down the chicken or tofu cubes. They should sizzle pleasantly upon contact. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You're looking for a nice char and for the chicken to be cooked through or the tofu to be crispy outside and tender inside.

While your protein is cooking, it's time to prepare the mango salsa. In another bowl, mix together 1 diced ripe mango, 1/2 a finely chopped red onion, 1 seeded and minced jalapeno, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro, and 2 tablespoons of lime juice. Give it a good stir and set aside.

Next, warm your corn tortillas in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them soft and pliable, perfect for folding around your delicious fillings.

To assemble the tacos, lay a warm tortilla flat, add a few chunks of cooked chicken or tofu, a couple of avocado slices, and a generous spoonful of mango salsa. Serve with lime wedges for an extra zing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

A delightful mix of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.
Customizable for both meat lovers and vegetarians.
Brings a tropical twist to your regular taco night.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts or firm tofu, cubed

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 ripe mango, diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1 jalapeno, seeded and minced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

2 tbsp lime juice

1 avocado, sliced

8 small corn tortillas

Lime wedges, for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken or tofu and toss to coat evenly.

2. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken or tofu for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and slightly charred.

3. In another bowl, mix diced mango, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice to create the mango salsa.

4. Warm tortillas in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or until pliable.

5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled chicken or tofu, avocado slices, and mango salsa onto each tortilla. Serve with lime wedges.

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