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Spicy Mango Mezcal Chicken with Charred Lime Crema

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Spicy Mango Mezcal Chicken with Charred Lime Crema is a smoky, sweet, and fiery dish where tender chicken is marinated in a mango-mezcal blend and topped with a tangy charred lime crema. A bold, gourmet-style meal made with simple ingredients.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (includes marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Grilling or Pan-Searing
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons mezcal (or tequila/orange juice as substitute)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 lime, halved
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional garnishes: fresh cilantro, mango slices
  • Optional sides: warm tortillas, rice, grilled veggies

Instructions

  1. Blend mango, mezcal, olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, garlic, cumin, salt, and cayenne until smooth.
  2. Pour marinade over chicken in a bowl or bag. Marinate at least 1 hour, up to overnight.
  3. Char lime halves in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes until caramelized.
  4. Mix sour cream/yogurt with charred lime juice, extra lime juice, honey, and salt. Chill until serving.
  5. Grill or sear chicken over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side until cooked and charred. Rest, then slice.
  6. Serve with rice, tortillas, or veggies. Drizzle with crema and garnish with cilantro and mango slices.

Notes

  • Add pineapple to the marinade for extra sweetness.
  • Swap chicken with shrimp or pork for variety.
  • Use plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free crema.
  • Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes instead of grilling.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/spicy-mango-mezcal-chicken-with-charred-lime-crema/