What to Serve with Mango Salsa Chicken: 15 Tasty Side Dishes to Complement the Tropical Flavors

Mango salsa chicken is a bright, fresh dish that is full of flavor. The sweet and tangy mango salsa pairs perfectly with the juicy, tender chicken. However, a protein alone does not make a complete meal. Having a delicious side dish can take your mango salsa chicken to the next level.

The right sides will complement and balance out the tropical flavors of the chicken. They add color, texture, and nutrients to round out the plate. I’ve compiled a list of 15 of my favorite sides to serve with mango salsa chicken. From rice and beans to salads and slaws, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice is a classic companion for dishes with Latin flair. The rice soaks up the zesty lime and cilantro, giving it a burst of flavor. The citrusy brightness pairs perfectly with the sweet mango salsa chicken. The cilantro also helps cut through the richness of the dish. This easy rice recipe can be made ahead of time leaving you with one less thing to worry about on busy nights.

Black Beans

Hearty black beans are a satisfying plant-based protein to serve alongside mango salsa chicken. Their earthy flavor balances out the sweetness of the mango Black beans are high in fiber, keeping you feeling full and providing lasting energy. Season them with cumin, garlic, and lime juice for a pop of flavor They can be served warm or chilled, making them a versatile side dish for any time of year.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilling vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and asparagus adds delicious smoky notes The char from the grill complements the backyard barbecue vibe of the mango salsa chicken Grilled veggies are low calorie and packed with nutrients. Toss them in a little olive oil and your favorite herbs and spices. I love using a southwest spice blend. Grilled veggies are easy to make in batches and enjoy throughout the week.

Corn Salad

A corn salad is the perfect summer side dish, with its sweet corn, peppers, and tangy vinaigrette. It pairs nicely with the tropical flavors of mango salsa chicken. Make it more hearty by adding black beans or diced avocado. The crunch of the veggies and corn is a nice contrast to the tender juicy chicken. For an extra pop of color, use a mix of yellow and red peppers.

Mixed Green Salad

You can never go wrong with a fresh mixed greens salad. It adds color and nutrition and helps balance out a rich meal. Use a blend of leafy greens like spinach, arugula, kale, and romaine. Then top it with your favorite veggies and dressing. I love pairing it with a citrusy vinaigrette to echo the mango salsa. Add some sliced almonds or sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch.

Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is a healthy whole grain that makes a wonderful base for a salad. It has more protein than most grains, offering a nice nutritional balance to the mango salsa chicken. Quinoa holds its shape when cooked, so it won’t get soggy in the salad. You can customize your quinoa salad with your favorite mix-ins like bell peppers, olives, edamame, or feta. It keeps well, so make a big batch to eat all week long.

Avocado Slices

Buttery avocado slices are never a bad idea. The creaminess provides a nice contrast to the mango salsa chicken. Avocados are loaded with healthy fats and fiber to keep you feeling satisfied. They also add a pop of green to balance out your plate. Drizzle the avocado with a squirt of lime juice to keep it from browning. Simple sliced avocado is a hassle-free way to round out your tropical meal.

Tortilla Chips

Crunchy tortilla chips offer a fun accompaniment to mango salsa chicken. Scoop up bites of chicken and salsa for a tasty, handheld experience. The saltiness plays off the sweetness of the mango. Tortilla chips also provide a nice textural contrast to the tenderness of the chicken. For variety, use a mix of yellow and blue corn chips.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes are a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs nicely with the mango chicken. Their natural sweetness complements the tropical flavors. Baking the sweet potatoes caramelizes them and enhances their flavor. Toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices like cinnamon or chili powder before roasting. The richness of the sweet potatoes balances out the juiciness of the chicken.

Pineapple Coleslaw

For a fun play on the tropical flavors, try a pineapple coleslaw. The sweet pineapple and tangy dressing match the mango salsa. To make it, combine shredded cabbage and carrots with pineapple tidbits. The crispy slaw and juicy fruit offer a pleasing crunch and pop of sweetness. The acidity of the dressing also cuts through the richness of the meal.

Coconut Rice

Coconut rice is a delicious pairing for tropical entrees like mango salsa chicken. The subtle sweet coconut flavor complements the mango beautifully. Coconut milk makes the rice ultra creamy and fragrant. For best results, use coconut milk (not cream of coconut). Season it with a pinch of salt and lime zest. The rice soaks up the coconut flavor as it cooks, creating an aromatic and luxurious side dish.

Mango Avocado Salsa

Why not double down on the mango with a mango avocado salsa? The buttery avocado balances out the sweet juicy mango in this fresh pico de gallo style salsa. Serving it alongside the chicken lets you alternate between the two salsas, adding more dynamic flavor with each bite. Make it as spicy or mild as you prefer, adding jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.

Plantains

Fried or baked plantains make for a hearty, savory side. Their subtle sweetness plays off the mango chicken nicely. Drizzle lime juice on baked plantain slices and top with cotija cheese for added flavor. For fried plantains, coat slices in cornmeal before pan-frying until crispy. Sprinkle with salt while hot. Either preparation provides a satisfying crunch and warmth to contrast the cool freshness of the mango salsa.

Cucumber Salad

A cucumber salad offers a refreshing, hydrating side to accompany your meal. Thin slices of cucumbers and red onion are drizzled in a tangy vinaigrette. The crisp crunch and bright acidity complement the juicy sweet chicken and mango salsa perfectly. It adds nutrients and texture to your plate without weighing it down. Chill the cucumbers before preparing the salad for optimum crunch.

Cilantro Lime Coleslaw

This zesty coleslaw matches the vibrant flavors of the mango chicken. To make it, simply toss shredded cabbage and carrots with a dressing of olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and honey. Letting it chill for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together. The acidity cuts through the richness of the meal. A bed of coleslaw also adds fun flavor and texture variation with each bite.

Lime Cilantro Rice

Just like cilantro lime rice complements mango salsa chicken wonderfully, so does its variation with lime. By adding fresh lime juice and zest to the rice with cilantro, you get a citrus kick that enhances the tropical essence of the mango chicken. The tart lime cuts through the rich, juicy flavors while the cilantro provides an herbal freshness. Serve this easy rice warm or chilled.

With so many delicious options, it can be tricky deciding on just one side for your mango salsa chicken. I recommend trying out a few different pairings to discover your favorites. Mix and match based on what you have on hand or what suits the season. Just about any vegetable or grain can work well when seasoned thoughtfully.

These 15 sides offer a nice variety of flavors, colors, and textures to round out a meal featuring mango salsa chicken. From corn salads to coconut rice, you’re sure to find a combination that satisfies your palate. So fire up the grill, whip up a batch of mango salsa, and get ready to feast!