Crunchy Chicken Fajita Recipe with Spicy Mango Salsa

Introducing a delightful, vibrant dish that bursts with flavor—the Crunchy Chicken Fajita Recipe with Spicy Mango Salsa! This recipe marries the crunch of perfectly seasoned chicken strips with the refreshing sweetness of ripe mango salsa, creating a fiesta of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these fajitas are sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Crunchy Chicken Fajitas:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Tortillas (flour or corn, for serving)

For the Spicy Mango Salsa:

• 1 ripe mango, diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with buttermilk. Ensure all pieces are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chicken to tenderize and absorb flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a shallow dish, mix the cornmeal, flour, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will create a crunchy and flavorful coating for the chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring an even coating.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken strips in batches, cooking until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side). Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and place in the oven to keep warm while you sauté the vegetables.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Sauté until they are tender and slightly caramelized (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Prepare the Spicy Mango Salsa

1. In a bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Toss gently to mix and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Assemble the Fajitas

1. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
2. Serve the crunchy chicken strips topped with sautéed vegetables and a generous spoonful of spicy mango salsa.

Cooking Tips

• For extra crunch, you can double-coat the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk and then returning it to the cornmeal mixture.
• If you prefer a milder salsa, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it altogether.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of peppers or add black beans for an extra protein boost.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these crunchy chicken fajitas with sides like guacamole, sour cream, and a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A refreshing drink such as a classic margarita or a fruity agua fresca would complement the flavors beautifully.

Consider serving the fajitas in a taco bar format, allowing guests to customize their own dishes with various toppings and salsas.

Variations and Substitutions

• For a healthier option, you can grill the chicken instead of frying it.
• Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein source.
• Use whole wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.

With this Crunchy Chicken Fajita Recipe with Spicy Mango Salsa, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating an experience. Take your time to enjoy the process and explore different flavor combinations. Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, check out this article on making homemade guacamole or explore ways to enhance your salsa-making skills with this salsa guide.

Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and inspire others to join the fun!