Name: Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade); ½ tsp ground allspice; ¼ tsp ground nutmeg; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded red cabbage; 1 cup shredded green cabbage; 1 ripe mango, diced; ½ cup shredded carrots; ¼ cup chopped red onion; ¼ cup chopped cilantro; ½ cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp chopped cilantro

Jump to Recipe

There is nothing quite like the vibrant flavors and colorful presentation of Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream to brighten up your mealtime. This dish combines the smoky, spicy punch of perfectly grilled jerk chicken with a fresh, sweet mango slaw that adds the perfect crunch and zest. Topped off with a luscious honey lime cream that is both tangy and sweet, these bowls deliver a harmonious blend of tastes and textures that feel like a warm tropical hug in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of simple, fresh ingredients is all you need to create these stunning bowls. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: from the spicy jerk seasoning that defines the chicken, to the crisp cabbages and sweet mango that make the slaw sing, and the creamy honey lime sauce that ties everything together with a refreshing finish.

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized cubes for quick, even cooking and ease of eating.
1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the jerk seasoning penetrate the chicken and keeps it juicy on the grill.
1 tbsp jerk seasoning: The star of the show, offering that signature spicy, smoky Caribbean flavor.
½ tsp ground allspice: Adds warmth and complexity to the marinade.
¼ tsp ground nutmeg: Brings a subtle nutty sweetness to balance the heat.
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love an extra kick of heat.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
1 cup shredded red cabbage: Offers vibrant color and crunch.
1 cup shredded green cabbage: Adds a crisp, refreshing base for the slaw.
1 ripe mango, diced: Brings juicy sweetness and tropical brightness.
½ cup shredded carrots: Provides a hint of earthiness and more texture.
¼ cup chopped red onion: Contributes a sharp bite that wakes up the palate.
¼ cup chopped cilantro: Fresh herbaceous notes that lift the entire dish.
½ cup plain Greek yogurt: Creates the creamy base for the honey lime cream.
2 tbsp honey: Adds natural sweetness to balance the tang.
1 tbsp lime juice: Offers zesty acidity for brightness.
1 tbsp chopped cilantro: Incorporated in the sauce to echo the fresh flavors of the slaw.

How to Make Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing your cubed chicken with olive oil, jerk seasoning, ground allspice, nutmeg, cayenne pepper if you like it spicy, and salt and black pepper to taste. This blend not only infuses the chicken with that unmistakable Caribbean soul but also tenderizes it slightly. Cover the bowl and let the chicken soak up all those flavors in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you can plan ahead—trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat up a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer and cook them until they develop a beautiful slight char and are cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. The caramelization here is where much of the magic happens, locking in the smoky, spicy notes that make this jerk chicken unforgettable. Once done, set the chicken aside and let it rest briefly so it stays juicy.

Step 3: Prepare the Mango Slaw

While the chicken is cooking, combine your shredded red and green cabbage, diced mango, shredded carrots, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro in a large mixing bowl. This vibrant slaw offers a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken—crunchy, sweet, and colorful. Toss everything gently so the flavors meld, but the textures remain wonderfully fresh and crisp.

Step 4: Make the Honey Lime Cream

In a small bowl, whisk together creamy Greek yogurt, honey, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro. This sauce is a game changer—sweet with a tart punch and herbal brightness from the cilantro that perfectly complements the rich heat of the jerk chicken and the juicy sweetness of the mango slaw. It’s the final touch that brings this dish to life.

Step 5: Assemble Your Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream

Divide the mango slaw evenly among bowls, then pile on the grilled jerk chicken cubes. Finish each bowl with a generous dollop of that luscious honey lime cream. The layers of flavor and texture combine into a colorful, balanced meal that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

How to Serve Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream

Garnishes

To elevate your Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream even further, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed peanuts for extra crunch. A few thin lime wedges on the side let everyone add a fresh squeeze of brightness. A scattering of additional fresh cilantro will enhance the herbaceous notes already present and add a pop of green that’s irresistible.

Side Dishes

These bowls are complete as a stand-alone meal, but if you want to serve a side, think simple and complementary. A warm coconut rice or jasmine rice works beautifully and brings a comforting softness to accompany the vibrant textures. For something lighter, grilled corn on the cob with a bit of butter and a sprinkle of smoked paprika can round out your meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests or just want to impress yourself, try building your bowls in mason jars for a stunning layered effect that keeps textures crisp. Alternatively, serve the jerk chicken skewered for a fun twist, paired with individual cups of mango slaw and honey lime cream as dipping sauce. These ideas add visual interest and make your Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream feel festive and special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cooked jerk chicken and mango slaw store well in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the components separate ensures neither gets soggy or loses texture. Store the honey lime cream in its own container and give it a good stir before serving again.

Freezing

The jerk chicken freezes wonderfully and can be kept in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge. The mango slaw and honey lime cream, however, do not freeze well due to their fresh, crunchy nature and creamy texture, so it’s best to prepare those fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat the jerk chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave set to medium power, taking care not to dry it out. It’s best to add the mango slaw and honey lime cream only after reheating to maintain their fresh crispness and creamy balance. This way, you get almost the same fresh experience as when it was first made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs have a bit more fat and tend to stay juicier, which can actually add extra flavor to your Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream. Just adjust cooking time slightly to make sure they’re cooked through.

Is there a way to make the mango slaw ahead of time without it getting soggy?

Yes! Prepare the slaw ingredients and keep them separate from any dressings or sauces. Toss everything together just before serving to maintain that crisp, fresh crunch that makes the slaw so vibrant.

Can I substitute the Greek yogurt in the honey lime cream?

Certainly. You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you prefer. Just keep in mind that each brings a slightly different flavor and texture, but they’ll all lend that creamy, tangy component needed to balance the dish.

How spicy is the jerk seasoning in this dish?

The jerk seasoning is moderately spicy with a nice smoky depth. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less cayenne pepper or omit it entirely—the dish still packs plenty of flavor without being overpowering.

Can I grill the chicken outdoors for this recipe?

Yes, grilling outdoors on a barbecue adds an authentic smoky char that’s fantastic. Just be mindful to turn the chicken frequently for even cooking and to avoid flare-ups that can burn the jerk spices.

Final Thoughts

Trying out these Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream is like taking your taste buds on a mini vacation to the tropics. The blend of bold spices, fresh produce, and creamy tang will have you coming back for seconds and sharing this recipe with everyone you know. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s quickly become one of my all-time favorite dishes to make and enjoy any time of year.

Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 23 reviews

Author: Isabella
Total Time: 23 minutes (plus marinating time up to 2 hours)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

These Jerk Chicken and Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream offer a vibrant and flavorful combination. Tender, spicy jerk-seasoned chicken is paired with a refreshing mango and cabbage slaw, all topped with a tangy honey lime yogurt sauce. This fresh, colorful dish is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal bursting with Caribbean-inspired flavors.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, jerk seasoning, ground allspice, nutmeg, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly coat all pieces. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken cubes in a single layer, cooking them for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and slightly charred on the edges. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Mango Slaw: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded red cabbage, green cabbage, diced mango, shredded carrots, chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently yet thoroughly to mix all ingredients evenly.
Make the Honey Lime Cream: In a small bowl, whisk together plain Greek yogurt, honey, lime juice, and chopped cilantro until smooth and well combined. Adjust sweetness or tartness to taste.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide the mango slaw evenly into 4 serving bowls. Top each bowl with the grilled jerk chicken and finish with a generous dollop of honey lime cream over the top.
Serve: Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and slaw is fresh for the best flavor contrast. Enjoy this vibrant, tropical-inspired meal full of bold and refreshing tastes.

Notes

Marinating the chicken for up to 2 hours enhances the flavor but even a 30-minute marinade works well.
To adjust heat, omit the cayenne pepper or increase it depending on your spice preference.
Use ripe mango for the slaw to get the perfect balance of sweetness and juiciness.
If you don’t have a grill pan, a regular skillet or outdoor grill works fine.
For a dairy-free version, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat chicken separately to avoid soggy slaw.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling / Pan Searing
Cuisine: Caribbean