It all started one frantic Tuesday evening. The kids had soccer practice, homework deadlines loomed, and my energy tank felt dangerously low. As a mom of three, I constantly search for meals that are not only nourishing but also bring a burst of joy to our bustling dinner table.
I wanted something fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious – a recipe that felt like a hug but tasted like a Caribbean vacation. That night, these incredible Jerk chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream were born from that desire. The aroma of spices filling my kitchen, the bright colors of the mango slaw, and that dreamy, creamy dressing transformed a chaotic evening into a moment of shared delight.
My eldest, usually a picky eater, devoured his bowl, declaring it “the best chicken ever!” That’s the power of food, isn’t it? It’s not just sustenance; it’s love, connection, and a little bit of magic. These Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream quickly became a family favorite, a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. You’ll love bringing this delicious experience to your own family.
Why You’ll Love These Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream
These Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream truly offer something for everyone. First and foremost, the flavors are simply out of this world. You get the smoky, spicy warmth of the jerk chicken, perfectly balanced by the cool, sweet tang of the mango slaw.
Then, the luxurious honey lime cream dressing ties everything together with a delightful zest and creamy finish. It’s a symphony of tastes in every single bite. Moreover, this recipe is remarkably versatile and surprisingly simple to put together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a fun weekend meal.
The bowls are incredibly satisfying, packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats, ensuring you feel nourished and energized. Forget bland dinners; these vibrant Jerk chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream will awaken your taste buds and become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire. We always enjoy making and eating these incredible Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting these delightful Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream starts with fresh, quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the incredible flavor profile.
For the Jerk chicken:
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning blend (store-bought or homemade)
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* ½ teaspoon garlic powder
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For the Mango Slaw:
* 3 cups shredded green cabbage (about ½ a small head)
* 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced
* ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
* ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
* ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the Honey Lime Cream:
* ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
* 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 1-2 limes)
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
* Cooked rice or quinoa (optional, for a heartier bowl)
* Lime wedges for garnish
* Extra fresh cilantro for garnish
Substitutions & Variations
These adaptable Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream allow for many delicious changes! Feel free to customize them to suit your family’s preferences or what you have on hand.
* Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken, try firm white fish like cod or mahi-mahi (marinate for 20 minutes and pan-sear) or even shrimp for a quicker cook time. For a plant-based option, use extra-firm tofu or tempeh, pressed and cubed, then tossed in the jerk seasoning and pan-fried until crispy.
* Veggie Boost: Add grated carrots, thinly sliced cucumbers, or jicama to your mango slaw for extra crunch and nutrition.
A little avocado, diced and added right before serving, also complements the flavors beautifully in these Jerk chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream.
* Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of jerk seasoning or omit the cayenne pepper. For a bolder kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the Honey Lime Cream.
* Creamy Dressing Alternatives: If you don’t have Greek yogurt, sour cream or even a dairy-free plain yogurt can work for the Honey Lime Cream. Adjust sweetness and tang as needed.
* Mango Alternatives: While essential for the classic Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream, if mangoes are out of season, try diced pineapple for a similar sweet-tart tropical note.
* Bowl Base: Serve these bowls over fluffy brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also enjoy them in lettuce cups for a lighter meal.
* Make it a Wrap: Skip the bowl entirely and load all the delicious components into warm tortillas or pita bread for a vibrant Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw wrap. This offers a fun twist on the classic Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating these amazing Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
1. Prepare the Jerk Chicken:
* Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. Cut them into 1-inch pieces.
* In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, jerk seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
* Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated in the seasoning.
* Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or for a deeper flavor, refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
2. Make the Honey Lime Cream:
* While the chicken marinates, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
* Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a teaspoon or two of water or milk.
* Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. This sauce is a star in our Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream.
3. Assemble the Mango Slaw:
* In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, diced mango, thinly sliced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro.
* Toss gently to combine all the vibrant ingredients. Set aside; you will dress it just before serving.
4. Cook the Jerk Chicken:
* Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a touch more olive oil if needed to prevent sticking.
* Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
* Sear the chicken for 3-5 minutes per side, or until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust and is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
* Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest for a few minutes.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
* To serve your delectable Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream, start with a base of cooked rice or quinoa, if desired, in each bowl.
* Next, spoon a generous portion of the fresh mango slaw alongside the rice.
* Add the perfectly cooked jerk chicken to the bowl.
* Finally, drizzle a liberal amount of the creamy Honey Lime Cream over the chicken and slaw.
* Garnish with extra cilantro and a fresh lime wedge. Enjoy your homemade Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream!
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving the best Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream involves a few simple tricks. These pro tips will help you elevate your cooking and ensure a truly memorable meal.
* Marination Matters: Don’t skip the marination step for the chicken! Even 30 minutes makes a difference, but letting the chicken soak in those jerk spices for 2-4 hours in the fridge truly infuses it with incredible flavor. This is key for outstanding Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream.
* Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, ensure you cook it in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough. Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature, steaming the chicken instead of searing it. A good sear creates that delicious, slightly crispy exterior.
* Perfectly Ripe Mango: For the slaw, choose a mango that gives slightly when gently squeezed, but isn’t mushy. It should smell sweet and fruity near the stem. A perfectly ripe mango adds essential sweetness and juiciness to your Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream.
* Make Ahead Components: You can prepare the jerk chicken marinade and the Honey Lime Cream up to 2 days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can also shred the cabbage and slice the bell pepper a day ahead.
This makes assembling your Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream incredibly quick on a busy weeknight.
* Dress Slaw Just Before Serving: To keep your mango slaw fresh and crisp, only add the Honey Lime Cream right before you are ready to serve. If you dress it too early, the cabbage can become soggy.
* Taste and Adjust: Always taste your Honey Lime Cream and adjust seasonings. Sometimes a little more honey, lime, or a pinch of salt can make all the difference in these Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy these fantastic Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream for days to come.
* Separate Storage is Key: For the best results and to maintain freshness, store the components of your Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream separately.
* Cooked Chicken: Place the cooled jerk chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
* Mango Slaw: Store the undressed mango slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
* Honey Lime Cream: Keep the dressing in a separate airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* Reheating Chicken: Gently reheat the jerk chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out, or warm it in the microwave until heated through.
* Assembling Leftovers: When you’re ready for another bowl, simply warm the chicken (and rice/quinoa if using), then combine with fresh, undressed slaw and a drizzle of the Honey Lime Cream.
This approach keeps your delicious Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream vibrant and flavorful.
* Freezing: While the cooked jerk chicken can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months, the mango slaw and Honey Lime Cream do not freeze well due to their fresh ingredients and creamy texture.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These delightful Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream are incredibly satisfying on their own, but pairing them with a few complementary sides can turn them into a truly unforgettable feast.
* Rice or Quinoa: A simple bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa is a classic choice. It soaks up all the delicious juices and creamy dressing, making these Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream a heartier meal.
* Black Beans: A side of seasoned black beans, perhaps with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cilantro, offers a wonderful earthy contrast to the vibrant flavors of the bowls.
* Fried Plantains: Sweet and caramelized fried plantains (maduros) provide an authentic Caribbean touch and a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the spicy jerk chicken in our Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream.
* Extra Green Salad: If you crave more greens, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would be a refreshing addition.
* Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob, perhaps with a sprinkle of chili powder and lime, makes a fantastic side dish.
* Warm Tortillas: For a more interactive meal, offer warm flour or corn tortillas so everyone can create their own custom Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream tacos or wraps.
FAQs
We often get questions about making these incredible Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream. Here are some common inquiries and their answers.
Can I make the Jerk Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. You can also cook the chicken entirely and store it separately in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This makes assembling your Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream much quicker.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
No problem! The spice level in these Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream is entirely adjustable. Simply use a mild jerk seasoning blend, omit the cayenne pepper from the chicken marinade, and if your jerk seasoning has Scotch bonnet, consider a less spicy alternative. The Honey Lime Cream also helps to mellow out any heat.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, these Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream are packed with wholesome ingredients! Lean protein from the chicken, vitamins and fiber from the fresh mango and cabbage, and healthy fats from the olive oil and Greek yogurt make this a wonderfully nutritious and satisfying meal.
How ripe should the mango be for the slaw?
For the best texture and sweetness in your Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream, choose a ripe but firm mango. It should give slightly when you gently press it and smell fragrant near the stem. Avoid overly soft or bruised mangoes.
Can I grill the Jerk Chicken instead of pan-searing it?
Definitely! Grilling the jerk chicken adds an amazing smoky flavor to these Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream. Marinate the chicken as directed, then thread the pieces onto skewers or grill them directly over medium-high heat until cooked through and nicely charred, about 4-6 minutes per side.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Please note that these are estimated values and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes for your Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Protein | 45 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 18 g |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream offer a burst of joyful Caribbean flavors, combining smoky, spicy jerk chicken with sweet and tangy mango slaw, all topped with a creamy honey lime dressing.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
2 tablespoons Jerk Seasoning Blend
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (optional)
3 cups Shredded Green Cabbage
1 large Ripe Mango, peeled and diced
½ Red Bell Pepper, thinly sliced
¼ Red Onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro
½ cup Plain Greek Yogurt
2 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice
1 tablespoon Honey
1 clove Garlic, minced
½ teaspoon Salt
¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
Cooked Rice or Quinoa (optional)
Lime Wedges for garnish
Extra Fresh Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry and cut into 1-inch pieces. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, jerk seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Add chicken, toss to coat, cover, and marinate for at least 30 mins
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper for the Honey Lime Cream. Adjust seasonings and refrigerate
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cabbage, mango, bell pepper, onion, and cilantro for the slaw. Toss gently to combine
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove and let rest
- Assemble the bowls: Start with rice/quinoa, add mango slaw, top with jerk chicken, and finish with honey lime cream. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedge
Notes
Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
Store components separately for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg