Chicken dishes get a flavorful twist with our Chutney and Mayo Chicken recipe. Combining the tangy sweetness of chutney with creamy mayo creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements tender, juicy chicken. This unique blend brings a burst of flavor that’s both easy to make and sure to impress.
We love how this recipe balances savory and sweet notes, making it a versatile option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Whether served as a sandwich filling, salad topping, or main course, it’s a delicious way to elevate your chicken game without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this simple yet tasty meal that’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
To create our Chutney and Mayo Chicken recipe, we gather fresh ingredients that will ensure every bite bursts with balanced flavor. Below we detail the essentials for the chicken, chutney, and creamy mayo sauce.
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Chutney
- 1 cup mango chutney (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste for mild heat)
For the Mayo Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt to taste (start with 1/4 tsp)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
| Ingredient Group | Key Components | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Chicken breasts, spices, oil | Tender protein with smoky seasoning |
| Chutney | Mango chutney, lime juice, ginger, chili flakes | Tangy, sweet, and mildly spicy flavor |
| Mayo Sauce | Mayonnaise, Dijon, honey, vinegar, seasoning | Creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy dressing |
By using these ingredients, we achieve the perfect harmony of spicy, sweet, creamy, and savory that defines our Chutney and Mayo Chicken dish.
Equipment Needed
To make our Chutney and Mayo Chicken Recipe flawless from start to finish, we rely on some essential kitchen tools. Using the right equipment ensures precision in preparation and helps the flavors meld perfectly.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
For dicing fresh ginger, slicing chicken breasts, and chopping any additional ingredients, a sharp knife and sturdy cutting board are crucial. They allow us to maintain consistent sizes for even cooking and optimal texture.
- Mixing Bowls
At least two bowls are helpful: one for marinating the chicken and another for mixing the chutney and mayo sauce ingredients. Opt for medium-sized bowls to combine ingredients without spilling.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Precise measurements of spices, chutney, and mayo create a perfect balance. We always recommend using standardized measuring tools for accuracy.
- Large Skillet or Nonstick Pan
A wide skillet with even heat distribution is ideal for cooking the chicken breasts evenly without drying them out. Nonstick pans work best to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Spatula or Tongs
To flip the chicken gently we suggest using silicone spatulas or kitchen tongs. These tools protect the chicken’s surface and prevent breaking.
- Whisk or Fork
For mixing the creamy mayo sauce and chutney thoroughly, a whisk or fork blends ingredients smoothly ensuring a consistent texture and flavor.
Optional, But Helpful
- Meat Thermometer
Checking that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F ensures safety and juiciness.
- Serving Plates and Utensils
Ready your plating to present this vibrant dish attractively.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cutting Board & Knife | Prep chicken, ginger, and other fresh ingredients |
| Mixing Bowls | Marinate chicken & mix chutney-mayo sauce |
| Measuring Spoons & Cups | Accurate seasoning and sauce measurement |
| Large Skillet/Nonstick Pan | Cook chicken evenly without sticking |
| Spatula or Tongs | Flip and handle chicken gently |
| Whisk or Fork | Combine sauce ingredients smoothly |
| Meat Thermometer (optional) | Check safe internal temperature of chicken |
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, it’s essential to complete the Prep Work accurately to ensure our Chutney And Mayo Chicken cooks evenly and bursts with flavor. This stage involves detailed steps for preparing the chicken, crafting the tangy chutney, and blending the creamy mayo sauce.
Preparing the Chicken
- Trim the Chicken: Use a sharp knife to trim excess fat from the 2 lbs of boneless skinless chicken breasts.
- Slice or Pound: Depending on your preference, either slice the breasts into even cutlets about ½ inch thick or pound them gently between sheets of plastic wrap to ensure uniform thickness.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the following dry spices:
| Spice | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Smoked Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion Powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black Pepper | ½ tsp |
Sprinkle this mix evenly over both sides of the chicken, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Drizzle Olive Oil: Lightly coat each piece with 1 tbsp of olive oil to promote even cooking and prevent sticking.
5. Set Aside: Let the seasoned chicken rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Note: Properly prepping the chicken ensures a juicy, flavorful texture in every bite.
Making the Chutney
- Gather Ingredients: Assemble ½ cup of mango chutney, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tsp grated fresh ginger, and ¼ tsp chili flakes for an ideal balance of sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy notes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mango chutney, lime juice, and fresh ginger until smooth.
- Add Heat: Stir in chili flakes and adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample the chutney; add more lime juice for tang, or a pinch of salt if needed to balance sweetness.
“The chutney is the heart of this dish, delivering the bold flavor punch that pairs perfectly with creamy mayo.”
Preparing the Mayo Sauce
- Ingredients to Mix:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 tbsp |
| Honey | 1 tsp |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
| Black Pepper | ⅛ tsp |
- Whisk Together: In a medium bowl, whisk the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Add Sweetness and Tang: Stir in honey and apple cider vinegar to bring a creamy yet tangy profile.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste and whisk again until fully incorporated.
- Chill: Place the mayo sauce in the fridge for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
The creamy mayo sauce offers cooling richness that balances the sharpness of the chutney and spices.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to cook the chicken perfectly and combine it with the rich, flavorful chutney and mayo sauce that defines this recipe.
Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat a large skillet or nonstick pan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan, ensuring they are spaced evenly without crowding.
- Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes on the first side. Avoid moving the chicken to develop a golden-brown crust.
- Flip the chicken breasts carefully using tongs or a spatula.
- Continue cooking the second side for another 6 to 7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken moist and tender.
| Step | Action | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat skillet and add oil | 2 minutes | Medium heat |
| 2 | Place chicken in skillet | – | – |
| 3 | Cook first side | 6-7 mins | Medium heat |
| 4 | Flip chicken | – | – |
| 5 | Cook second side | 6-7 mins | 165°F (74°C) |
| 6 | Rest chicken | 5 minutes | Off heat |
Combining Chicken with Chutney and Mayo
- Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces for ease of eating and better flavor distribution.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken with the prepared mango chutney mixture. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
- Add the creamy mayo sauce to the chutney-coated chicken. Use a whisk or fork to fold the mayo in, ensuring every piece is luxuriously coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed by adding a pinch of salt, black pepper, or extra chili flakes for heat.
- Serve immediately on sandwiches, salads or as a main dish, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
“The magic happens when the tangy chutney meets the creamy mayo, clinging to the tender chicken for a perfect bite every time.“
This combination creates a vibrant mix of sweet, spicy, and creamy textures that elevate simple chicken to an irresistible meal.
Assembly
Now that our chicken is perfectly cooked and the chutney and mayo sauce are ready, the next step is to combine them carefully. This assembly phase ensures every bite bursts with balanced, vibrant flavors.
Serving Suggestions
To serve our Chutney and Mayo Chicken optimally, consider these options:
- On a bed of fresh greens: Arrange the sliced chicken over a crisp mixed salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes.
- In sandwiches or wraps: Layer the chicken with lettuce and sliced cucumbers inside a toasted bun or whole wheat wrap for a handheld delight.
- Alongside steamed rice or quinoa: Spoon the chicken with sauce over warm grains for a hearty meal.
- With roasted vegetables: Pair it with roasted carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini for a colorful, satisfying plate.
| Serving Style | Description | Best Accompaniments |
|---|---|---|
| Salad | Light, crisp, healthy | Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers |
| Sandwich / Wrap | Portable and convenient | Toasted bread, lettuce, cucumbers |
| Grain Bowl | Filling and balanced | Rice, quinoa, or couscous |
| Roasted Vegetable Plate | Warm, wholesome side | Carrots, peppers, zucchini |
Garnishing Tips
Garnishing adds a final touch of visual appeal and flavor contrast to our Chutney and Mayo Chicken. Let’s elevate the presentation with these tips:
- Fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro or parsley to add brightness and color.
- Toasted nuts: Add crunch and a nutty aroma using toasted cashews or almonds.
- Thinly sliced red chilies: For a subtle kick and vibrant red hue.
- Lime wedges: Serve on the side for an optional zesty squeeze.
- Microgreens: Use for a sophisticated, fresh garnish that enhances texture.
Adding these garnishes not only pleases the eye but also enhances the layered flavor profile, reinforcing the sweet, spicy, and creamy elements of the dish.
“Presentation is the art of flavor anticipation” — by garnishing thoughtfully, we invite everyone to savor every moment of the chutney and mayo chicken experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Proper storage and make-ahead strategies are essential to maintain the fresh flavors and texture of our Chutney and Mayo Chicken recipe. Following these tips will help us enjoy this delicious dish anytime without compromising quality.
Cooling and Refrigeration
- Allow the cooked chicken to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Transfer the chicken mixed with the chutney and mayo sauce into an airtight container.
- Refrigerate promptly to prevent bacterial growth.
- Store at or below 40°F (4°C) for optimal freshness.
| Storage Duration | Container Type | Storage Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 3 days | Airtight | 40°F (4°C) |
| Up to 1 month | Freezer-safe | 0°F (-18°C) |
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze the chicken mixture in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag.
- Leave some headspace to allow for expansion.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating Tips
- Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid drying out the chicken.
- Stir occasionally to evenly warm the chutney and mayo sauce.
- Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, covered, stirring between sessions.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the chutney and mayo sauce separately and refrigerate up to 3 days in advance.
- Marinate and season the chicken up to 24 hours prior to cooking for enhanced flavor infusion.
- Cook the chicken fresh when ready and combine with sauces just before serving to maintain texture.
“Pro Tip: Combining the chutney and mayo just before serving keeps the sauce bright and creamy, preventing any separation.”
By following these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips, we ensure every bite of our Chutney and Mayo Chicken stays vibrant, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Conclusion
This Chutney and Mayo Chicken recipe brings together bold flavors with ease, making it a versatile addition to our meal rotation. Whether we’re whipping it up for a quick dinner or impressing guests at a casual gathering, it never disappoints.
The combination of tangy chutney and creamy mayo creates a sauce that elevates the chicken without requiring complicated steps. By following the simple prep and cooking tips, we can consistently enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken every time.
With options for storage and make-ahead prep, this dish fits perfectly into busy lifestyles while still delivering on taste. It’s a fresh, exciting way to enjoy chicken that’s sure to become a favorite in our kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Chutney and Mayo Chicken recipe unique?
This recipe combines tangy mango chutney with creamy mayo to create a flavorful sauce that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and savory notes, elevating tender chicken beyond traditional preparations.
What ingredients are needed for the chutney and mayo sauce?
The chutney includes mango chutney, lime juice, fresh ginger, and chili flakes. The mayo sauce has mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and seasoning for a creamy, tangy flavor.
How should I cook the chicken for this recipe?
Season the chicken breasts with spices and cook in a preheated skillet with olive oil until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring juicy, tender chicken.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chutney and mayo sauce in advance and marinate the chicken. Store sauces separately and combine just before serving for the best flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Cool cooked chicken to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
What are some serving suggestions?
Serve the chicken on a bed of greens, in sandwiches or wraps, with rice or quinoa, or alongside roasted vegetables for a versatile meal option.
How can I enhance the presentation of this dish?
Garnish with fresh herbs, toasted nuts, thinly sliced red chilies, lime wedges, or microgreens to add color and extra flavor.