Best Ancho Rubbed Chicken With Cucumber Mango Salsa Recipes

What is Ancho Rubbed Chicken with Cucumber Mango Salsa?

Ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa is a popular dish that brings together the flavors of juicy chicken, smoky ancho chili powder, refreshing cucumber, and sweet and tangy mango salsa to create a mouth-watering and satisfying meal. The dish usually involves marinating or rubbing chicken breasts with a mixture of ancho chili powder, ground cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper before grilling or sautéing them until golden brown and cooked through. The addition of ancho chili powder adds a unique, smoky flavor to the chicken that complements the sweet, juicy flavors of the other ingredients. To accompany the chicken, a cucumber mango salsa is often served on top or on the side. The salsa typically contains diced cucumber, mango, red onion, garlic, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. The combination of the crisp, refreshing cucumber, the sweet, juicy mango, and the tart lime juice creates a refreshing and flavorful contrast to the smoky chicken. Overall, ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa is a dish that is both delicious and healthy, as it contains lean protein and nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables. It is perfect for a summer evening barbecue or a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Health Benefits of Ancho Rubbed Chicken with Cucumber Mango Salsa

Ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa can provide various health benefits, as it is high in protein, fiber, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients. Here are some of the health benefits of the dish:

High Protein Content

Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, maintaining strong bones, and supporting a healthy immune system. A 3.5-ounce serving of chicken breast contains about 31 grams of protein, which is almost two-thirds of the recommended daily intake for most adults.

Rich in Fiber

Cucumbers and mangoes are both high in fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and lower cholesterol levels. A cup of diced cucumber contains about 0.6 grams of fiber, while a cup of diced mango contains about 2.6 grams of fiber.

Source of Antioxidants

Mangoes and ancho chili powder are both rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against disease and aging. Mangoes are particularly high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen production, while ancho chili powder contains capsaicin, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties.

Low in Calories and Fat

Ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa is a low-calorie and low-fat meal that can help support healthy weight management. A 3.5-ounce serving of chicken breast contains about 165 calories and 3.6 grams of fat, while a cup of diced cucumber contains only 16 calories and 0.2 grams of fat.

How to Make Ancho Rubbed Chicken with Cucumber Mango Salsa

Ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa is a simple and easy dish to make at home. Here is a basic recipe that you can customize to your taste:

Ingredients:

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1 large cucumber, diced - 1 large mango, peeled and diced - 1/2 red onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup chopped cilantro - 1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced - 2 tablespoons lime juice - Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the ancho chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly. 2. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes. 3. In a medium bowl, combine the cucumber, mango, red onion, garlic, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. Stir well to combine. 4. To serve, slice the chicken breasts and top with the cucumber mango salsa. Enjoy!

Creative Variations of Ancho Rubbed Chicken with Cucumber Mango Salsa

Ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa is a versatile dish that can be customized with various ingredients and flavor profiles. Here are some creative variations to try:

Asian-style Ancho Rubbed Chicken with Cucumber Mango Salsa

Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the chicken rub mixture. Serve the chicken with a cucumber mango salsa that contains diced bell pepper, scallions, and a dressing made with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey.

Mexican-style Ancho Rubbed Chicken with Cucumber Mango Salsa

Add 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon cumin to the chicken rub mixture. Serve the chicken with a cucumber mango salsa that contains diced avocado, tomato, and a dressing made with lime juice, honey, and cumin.

Mediterranean-style Ancho Rubbed Chicken with Cucumber Mango Salsa

Add 1 tablespoon za'atar spice blend, 1 teaspoon sumac, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon to the chicken rub mixture. Serve the chicken with a cucumber mango salsa that contains diced cucumber, tomato, feta cheese, and a dressing made with lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic.

Ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa is a delicious and healthy recipe that's great for any occasion. The ancho rub adds a spicy and smoky flavor to the chicken, while the fresh cucumber mango salsa adds a sweet and tangy taste. This dish is perfect for those who are looking for a healthy and flavorful meal that's easy to make. Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind when making ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa.

Tip 1: Use fresh ingredients

One of the most important tips when making ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa is to use fresh ingredients. This will ensure that your dish is packed with flavor and nutrients. When selecting your ingredients, look for chicken that is free-range and organic. This will guarantee that the chicken is of high quality and free from any harmful chemicals. For the cucumber mango salsa, choose a ripe mango and fresh cucumbers. The mango should be firm but not too hard, and the cucumbers should be crisp and green. You can use other fruits and vegetables, such as red onion or jalapeño, to add more flavor and texture to the salsa.

Tip 2: Prepare the chicken properly

To ensure that your ancho rubbed chicken is tender and juicy, it's important to prepare it properly. Begin by removing any excess fat or skin from the chicken. Then, rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Next, prepare the ancho rub by combining ancho chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the spices into the chicken until it's well-coated. Now, let the chicken sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This will allow the spices to penetrate the chicken and give it more flavor.

Tip 3: Don't overcook the chicken

When cooking the ancho rubbed chicken, it's important not to overcook it. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, which can ruin the flavor and texture of the dish. To cook the chicken, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked. Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy.

Tip 4: Make the salsa ahead of time

Another valuable tip when making ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa is to make the salsa ahead of time. This will give the flavors time to meld together and make the salsa more flavorful. To make the salsa, combine diced mango, diced cucumber, diced red onion, diced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Mix everything together until well-combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salsa for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This will allow the flavors to develop and become more pronounced.

Tip 5: Garnish with fresh herbs

When serving ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa, it's a good idea to garnish it with fresh herbs. This will add more color and flavor to the dish, making it more visually appealing and tasty. Consider garnishing the dish with fresh cilantro, parsley, or basil. This will give the dish a pop of green color and provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor that complements the chicken and salsa.

Conclusion

Ancho rubbed chicken with cucumber mango salsa is a delicious and healthy dish that's perfect for any occasion. By following these valuable tips, you can ensure that your dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. Remember to use fresh ingredients, prepare the chicken properly, not overcook it, make the salsa ahead of time, and garnish with fresh herbs. With these tips in mind, you'll be able to make a delicious and healthy meal that everyone will love.