Amazing Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad Recipe (25 Min)

Looking for a vibrant, healthy meal that combines sweet tropical flavors with protein-packed ingredients? This Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining guests. This colorful bowl brings together tender grilled chicken, sweet mango chunks, hearty black beans, and fresh vegetables in a zesty lime dressing that will make your taste buds dance.

Whether you’re searching for an easy Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad, a classic Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad, or a homemade Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad that’s both nutritious and satisfying, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Moreover, it’s ready in just 25 minutes and packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins that will keep you energized throughout the day.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes – perfect for busy schedules
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stays fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator
• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins
• Versatile: Great as a main dish, side salad, or party appetizer
• Naturally Gluten-Free: Suitable for various dietary preferences
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, accessible ingredients
• Colorful and Instagram-Worthy: Beautiful presentation that’s perfect for sharing

This recipe represents the best way to make Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad at home and is an easy Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad for beginners who want restaurant-quality results without the complexity.

Ingredients for Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad

For the Salad:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 2 ripe mangoes, diced (about 2 cups) – choose mangoes that yield slightly to pressure
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed – essential ingredient for Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 medium red onion, finely diced (about ½ cup)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 large avocado, diced (add just before serving)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)

For the Lime Cilantro Dressing:

• ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes) – best citrus for Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – essential spice for Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad spice blend
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Dietary Swaps: For a vegan option, substitute chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas. For a lower-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice instead of mixed greens.

this …

How to Make Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While chicken is resting, dice the mango, red bell pepper, and red onion. Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly. If using frozen corn, thaw completely. Fresh corn should be removed from the cob.

Step 3: Make the Lime Cilantro Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to let flavors meld.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad Base

In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced chicken, mango chunks, black beans, bell pepper, red onion, and corn. Gently toss to distribute ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

Just before serving, add diced avocado and chopped cilantro. Drizzle with the lime cilantro dressing and toss gently to coat all ingredients.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. For meal prep, store dressing separately and add avocado just before eating.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad

Can I make Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad ahead of time? Yes! Prepare all components except avocado up to 2 days in advance. Store dressing separately and add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

What is the secret to the best Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad? The key is using ripe but firm mangoes and letting the dressing sit for at least 15 minutes before adding to allow flavors to meld. Additionally, don’t overdress the salad – start with less dressing and add more as needed.

Additional Pro Tips:

• Choose mangoes that are fragrant and yield slightly to gentle pressure
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning for better browning
• Rinse black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium
• Toast cumin and chili powder in a dry pan for 30 seconds to enhance flavor
• Chill the salad for 15-20 minutes before serving for best taste

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad

The best way to serve Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad is with warm tortilla chips for scooping, or wrapped in large flour tortillas for a portable meal. This versatile dish pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled corn on the cob for a complete summer meal
• Lime-flavored sparkling water or fresh limeade
• Warm cornbread or tortilla chips for added texture
• Quinoa or brown rice to make it more filling
• Fresh fruit salsa as a complementary side dish

For entertaining, serve in individual mason jars for a beautiful presentation, or offer it as part of a build-your-own taco or burrito bowl station.

Nutritional Information for Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad

Per Serving (serves 4):

• Calories: 385 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 12g
• Fat: 15g
• Sugar: 18g (natural sugars from mango)
• Sodium: 320mg
• Vitamin C: 85% Daily Value
• Iron: 15% Daily Value

This low-carb Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad (when served without grains) provides an excellent source of lean protein, healthy fats from avocado, and complex carbohydrates from black beans. The mango adds natural sweetness and vitamin C, while the black beans contribute plant-based protein and fiber.

Storage & Leftovers

How long does Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad last in the fridge? Properly stored, this salad will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Storage Guidelines:

• Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator
• Keep dressing separate if meal prepping
• Add avocado just before eating to prevent browning
• Best reheating method: This salad is best served cold, but you can warm the chicken separately if desired

Freezing: While you can freeze the cooked chicken and black beans separately for up to 3 months, the complete salad doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and mango.

4 FAQs for Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad

Can I freeze Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad? The complete salad doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and fruit. However, you can freeze cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months and prepare fresh salad when ready to eat.

What can I use instead of mango in Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad? Fresh pineapple, peaches, or papaya work wonderfully as mango substitutes. Choose fruit that’s ripe but still firm to maintain texture in the salad.

How do I keep avocado from browning in meal prep? Add avocado just before serving, or toss diced avocado with extra lime juice and store separately. You can also cover the salad surface with plastic wrap directly touching the avocado.

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe? While fresh grilled chicken tastes best, you can use rotisserie chicken or high-quality canned chicken in a pinch. Drain canned chicken well and season with cumin and chili powder to enhance flavor.

Related Recipes for Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad

If you love this Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad, try these complementary recipes:

• Cilantro Lime Rice Bowl – perfect base for your salad
• Black Bean and Corn Salsa – great as a side dish
• Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa – similar flavors in a different format
• Mexican Street Corn Salad – excellent companion dish
• Tropical Quinoa Salad – another healthy, colorful option

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Best Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad Recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite. With its vibrant colors, nutritious ingredients, and versatile serving options, it’s destined to become a regular rotation in your meal planning. The combination of protein-rich chicken, fiber-packed black beans, and vitamin-loaded mango creates a satisfying meal that supports your health goals without sacrificing taste.

Ready to make this delicious salad? Try this recipe today and let us know in the comments how it turned out! Don’t forget to share your photos on social media and tag us – we love seeing your culinary creations.

Rate this recipe and tell us about any variations you tried. Did you add extra spice? Try a different fruit? We’d love to hear from you!

Now you know how to make the best Chicken Mango Black Bean Salad at home – it’s time to get cooking and enjoy this flavorful, nutritious bowl that’s perfect for any occasion!

Print