Why You’ll Love Lemon Ginger Chicken Recipe
This Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa Loaf is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in one dish. The juicy, marinated chicken is infused with zesty lemon, aromatic ginger, and a hint of garlic, creating a burst of freshness in every bite. Topped with a tropical pineapple mango salsa, this dish delivers the perfect contrast of sweet and spicy flavors, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing meal or a deliciously healthy option, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, or even meal prep. The citrusy marinade tenderizes the chicken, while the fruity salsa adds a tropical twist. Plus, it’s easy to make and pairs well with a variety of sides!
Pure Comfort
There’s something incredibly comforting about juicy, marinated chicken paired with a fresh fruit salsa. The warmth of ginger, the brightness of lemon, and the tropical flavors of pineapple and mango create a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
It’s light yet filling, healthy yet indulgent, and perfect for any occasion. Serve it over rice, quinoa, or even in a sandwich, and you’ve got a meal that’s bursting with bold, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients of Lemon Ginger Chicken
What You Need : Lemon Ginger Chicken
For the Lemon Ginger Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Pineapple Mango Salsa
- ½ cup pineapple, diced
- ½ cup mango, diced
- ¼ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ½ teaspoon honey
- Pinch of salt
Time to Cook Lemon Ginger Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 2
Steps to Make Lemon Ginger Chicken
Make Lemon Ginger Chicken Perfect
- Marinate the Chicken – In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, grated ginger, garlic, honey, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the chicken breasts and let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Prepare the Salsa – In a separate bowl, mix pineapple, mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, honey, and salt. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Cook the Chicken – Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
- Rest and Slice – Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Assemble and Serve – Place the sliced chicken on a plate, loaf, or bed of rice, then generously top with the pineapple mango salsa. Enjoy warm!
Mix Lemon Ginger Chicken Up
- Swap the protein – Use salmon, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Add extra crunch – Sprinkle with toasted coconut or crushed cashews.
- Spice it up – Add extra jalapeños or a dash of cayenne.
- Make it creamy – Add diced avocado for extra richness.
Perfect Partners
Serve this Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa with:
- Coconut rice – The perfect tropical side dish.
- Grilled veggies – Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
- Garlic bread or flatbread – A delicious way to soak up the juices.
- Avocado salad – A creamy, refreshing pairing.
Busy Day Hero
Short on time? Marinate the chicken overnight and prepare the salsa in advance. This way, you can just cook and serve when ready!
Work Ahead
- Make the salsa up to 24 hours ahead and store in the fridge.
- Marinate the chicken in the morning for maximum flavor at dinner.
Save Some For Later
- Leftover chicken? Slice it up and use it in tacos, wraps, or salads the next day!
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Everyone’s Happy
This dish is kid-friendly, gluten-free, and naturally healthy. The fruity salsa balances the bold lemon ginger flavors, making it a dish that everyone will love!
Good For You Too
- High in protein – Lean chicken keeps you full.
- Packed with antioxidants – Thanks to pineapple, mango, and bell peppers.
- Rich in vitamins – Lemon, ginger, and fresh herbs add immune-boosting nutrients.
- Low in carbs – Great for low-carb and keto diets.
Easy Clean Up
- Use one bowl for marinating – Fewer dishes to wash.
- Line your grill pan with foil for less mess.
- Wipe down the counter right after prep to keep things tidy.
Switch It Up
- Make it a sandwich – Serve the chicken and salsa in a toasted brioche bun.
- Wrap it up – Use tortillas for a tropical chicken wrap.
- Try it as a salad – Slice the chicken and serve over mixed greens.
- Serve it with quinoa – A protein-packed alternative to rice.
Simply Perfect Lemon Ginger Chicken
This Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa Loaf is fresh, vibrant, and packed with bold flavors. Whether served as a main dish, in a sandwich, or with rice, it’s an easy and healthy meal that never disappoints!
FAQs of Lemon Ginger Chicken
1. Can I use frozen mango and pineapple?
Yes! Just thaw them first and drain excess liquid before using.
2. What’s the best way to cook the chicken?
Grilling gives the best flavor, but you can also bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! The salsa stays fresh in the fridge for up to 24 hours, and the chicken can be marinated overnight.
4. Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes or extra jalapeños.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free or use tamari instead.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Explore More Delicious Recipes
Conclusion of Lemon Ginger Chicken
This Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa Loaf is a flavorful, fresh, and healthy meal that’s easy to make and packed with tropical goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a dish that wows at a summer cookout, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it today and bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen!
Happy cooking with Rita chef ❤️!
Print
Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa Loaf
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Lemon Ginger Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa is a bright, flavorful dish with a perfect balance of citrusy, sweet, and savory flavors. Juicy marinated chicken is infused with fresh lemon, ginger, and garlic, then grilled to perfection and topped with a tropical fruit salsa for a refreshing twist. Ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or summer cookouts, this dish is healthy, delicious, and easy to make!
Ingredients
For the Lemon Ginger Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pineapple Mango Salsa:
½ cup pineapple, diced
½ cup mango, diced
¼ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
1 tablespoon lime juice
½ teaspoon honey
Pinch of salt
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, grated ginger, garlic, honey, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the chicken breasts, coat them evenly, and marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
For the salsa, mix pineapple, mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, honey, and salt in a bowl. Stir well and refrigerate.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve topped with the fresh salsa.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add extra jalapeños or chili flakes. The salsa can be made ahead and stored for up to 24 hours. This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or inside a tortilla wrap.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled or Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Fusion, Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Lemon Ginger Chicken, citrus ginger chicken, tropical chicken recipe, pineapple mango chicken