Mango Salsa Chicken

This easy mango salsa chicken with tender chicken and fluffy rice is a flavorful one-skillet dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

By Ree Drummond Published: Feb 20, 2026

Jump to Recipe

Yields:

4 - 6 serving(s)

Prep Time:

15 mins

Total Time:

35 mins

Ryan LiebeYields: 4 - 6 serving(s)Prep Time: 15 minsTotal Time: 35 minsSavePrintIf you’re looking for an easy chicken recipe that checks all the boxes—flavorful, family-friendly, and made in one skillet—you’ve just struck gold. This mango salsa chicken recipe features juicy chicken thighs seared until golden, then nestled into fluffy white rice that simmers with sweet, tangy mango salsa. It’s colorful, comforting, and wonderfully simple. Plus it goes great with a homemade margarita if you're in the mood.

My daughter Alex loves to make a similar chicken dish using a jar of salsa poured over chicken breasts in a slow cooker, and I have to admit—it’s a lifesaver on busy nights. What makes this version extra special, though, is the sweetness from the mangoes. That little pop of tropical flavor balances the savory chicken and makes the whole dish taste fresh and vibrant. I have a soft spot in my heart for mango recipes!

Serve it up with seasoned black beans, creamy slices of avocado, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a complete meal in one bowl. And if you're building out your weeknight menu rotation, don't miss these other one-pan recipes, too!

Ingredients

2 lb. skinless, boneless chicken thighs (about 6) 
2 tsp. kosher salt 
1/2 tsp. black pepper 
2 tbsp. olive oil 
1 c. long-grain white rice 
1 (16-ounce) jar mango salsa
Seasoned black beans, for serving
Sliced avocado and chopped fresh cilantro, for topping

Directions

Step 1

Season the chicken on both sides with the salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken to a plate.
Step 2

Add the rice, 1½ cups water and 1 cup of the mango salsa to the skillet. Stir and bring to a boil.
Step 3

Nestle the chicken on top of the rice, reduce to a simmer, cover and cook until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender, 17 to 20 minutes.
Step 4

Serve the chicken and rice with black beans. Top with the remaining mango salsa, sliced avocado and cilantro.