If you’re craving a vibrant burst of flavors that dance on your taste buds, the Jerk Chicken Burritos with Mango Salsa Recipe is your go-to delight. This dish masterfully combines spicy, smoky jerk chicken with a fresh, tangy mango salsa, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla hug. It’s not just a meal but an inviting fiesta of colors, textures, and aromas that’ll have you reaching for seconds and sharing the love with everyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet vibrant ingredients, each carefully chosen to layer flavors, textures, and colors that bring the burrito to life. From the warmth of the spices to the bright freshness of the mango salsa, every element plays an essential role.
- Chicken breasts (2): The star protein that soaks up all the juicy jerk spices beautifully.
- Jerk seasoning (2 tablespoons): The soul of this dish, delivering that iconic spicy, smoky Caribbean punch.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon + ½ teaspoon): Helps to keep the chicken moist and the salsa silky.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and a subtle savory kick.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances richness with a gentle sweetness.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Contributes smoky undertones complementing the jerk flavor.
- Thyme (1 teaspoon): Provides a herby balance to the bold spices.
- Allspice (1 teaspoon): The classic Jamaican spice that warms and rounds out the jerk blend.
- Cinnamon (½ teaspoon): A surprising hint of sweetness in the spice mix.
- Nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle nutty note to the chicken seasoning.
- Cayenne pepper (½ teaspoon): Brings heat that wakes up the palate.
- Large flour tortillas (4): Soft and sturdy, perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.
- Cooked rice (1 cup): A comforting, neutral base that balances the spices.
- Black beans (1 cup): Creamy and earthy, enhancing texture and protein.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup): Adds melty, gooey richness inside every bite.
- Sour cream (½ cup): A cool, creamy contrast to the spicy and fruity flavors.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens and lifts the mango salsa to a fresh, zesty finish.
- Ripe mango, diced (1): Sweet and juicy, the star of the mango salsa that cools the spice.
- Red onion, finely chopped (¼ cup): Adds sharpness and crunch.
- Cilantro, chopped (¼ cup): Brings a fragrant herbaceous note.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- Honey (½ teaspoon): Sweetens the salsa just enough to balance tangy and spicy elements.
- Jalapeño, finely chopped (½): Delivers a gentle kick to the salsa without overpowering it.
How to Make Jerk Chicken Burritos with Mango Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your grill or skillet to medium-high heat, getting it ready to lock in those flavors. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil to keep them juicy, then generously coat with the jerk seasoning and the blend of aromatic spices. This fragrant marinade is the heartbeat of your burrito, promising a punchy, smoky taste in every slice.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill or skillet and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a juicy interior and a lightly charred exterior, with the internal temperature reaching 165°F for perfect doneness. Let the chicken rest briefly—this step keeps it tender and flavorful—then slice it thinly to make filling the burritos easy and neat.
Step 3: Make the Mango Salsa
While the chicken cooks, prepare your vibrant mango salsa. Combine the diced mango, finely chopped red onion, cilantro, lime juice, honey, olive oil, jalapeño, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This salsa is a fresh, sweet-spicy companion to the smoky jerk chicken that will brighten up every bite. Allow it to marinate at room temperature to meld the flavors.
Step 4: Warm and Assemble the Burritos
Gently warm your flour tortillas in a dry skillet for 1 or 2 minutes until supple and easy to roll. Then build your burritos by layering cooked rice, black beans, shredded cheddar, those beautiful jerk chicken slices, a generous spoonful of mango salsa, and a dollop of sour cream in the center of each tortilla.
Step 5: Roll and Serve
Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly to tuck in all the scrumptious fillings. Serve each burrito with extra mango salsa on the side for dipping, and get ready to enjoy that perfect combination of spicy, sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every mouthful.
How to Serve Jerk Chicken Burritos with Mango Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes takes your jerk chicken burritos to the next level. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves or a few thin slices of jalapeño can add vibrant color and brightness. A lime wedge on the side offers an extra zesty squeeze for those who love a citrusy kick.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with sides that complement its flavors. Consider serving with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the spice, or classic Caribbean-style plantains for a sweet and savory contrast. A serving of corn on the cob or chips with guacamole is also fantastic for sharing alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the burritos in half diagonally and stack them on a platter so those colorful layers of chicken, rice, beans, and mango salsa peek enticingly. Alternatively, turn the filling into a burrito bowl for a lighter option, layering all elements and letting everyone customize their own bowl with toppings and extra sour cream or salsa.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers—which is rare—wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the mango salsa separate in an airtight container to maintain its fresh texture and flavor.
Freezing
These burritos freeze wonderfully. Individually wrap each burrito in foil and place them in a freezer bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap and place the burrito in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, pop it in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, though the oven method keeps the tortilla nicely crisp. Add fresh mango salsa and a dollop of sour cream after reheating for the best flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chicken for this Jerk Chicken Burritos with Mango Salsa Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken breasts are great for their lean texture, chicken thighs work wonderfully too if you prefer juicier, more tender meat. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
Is the mango salsa spicy?
The salsa has a gentle kick thanks to the jalapeño, but it’s balanced by the sweet mango and honey. If you want more heat, feel free to add more chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the jerk chicken for grilled tofu or roasted vegetables seasoned with jerk spices. The mango salsa and other fillings remain delicious and satisfying.
What can I substitute for black beans?
If you’re not a fan of black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans work just as well and provide a similar creamy texture and protein boost.
How spicy are the Jerk Chicken Burritos with Mango Salsa Recipe?
This recipe offers a medium level of spice, thanks mostly to the cayenne and jerk seasoning. However, you can adjust the amount of seasoning and jalapeño to suit your heat preference perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way the spicy jerk chicken and sweet, zesty mango salsa come together in this recipe. It’s a symphony of flavors that feels both exotic and comforting at the same time. I can’t recommend the Jerk Chicken Burritos with Mango Salsa Recipe enough for anyone looking to brighten their dinner routine with a fiesta of taste. Go ahead, roll one up and dig in—you’re in for a delicious treat that’s sure to become a favorite!
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Jerk Chicken Burritos with Mango Salsa Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with these Jerk Chicken Burritos topped with a refreshing mango salsa. This recipe combines tender, spicy grilled jerk chicken with a zesty mango salsa, black beans, rice, and cheddar cheese, all wrapped in warm flour tortillas for a delicious fusion twist perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Chicken & Seasoning
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Burrito Fillings
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup black beans
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Mango Salsa
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or skillet: Begin by heating your grill or skillet to medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken and corn.
- Season and grill the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and evenly coat them with jerk seasoning and the blend of spices including garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing them into thin strips.
- Grill the corn: Place the corn on the grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until it is lightly charred. After grilling, remove the kernels from the cob and set aside for the burrito filling.
- Prepare mango salsa: In a small bowl, combine diced mango, finely chopped red onion, cilantro, lime juice, honey, olive oil, finely chopped jalapeño, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Warm the tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas in a skillet for 1-2 minutes each to make them more pliable and flavorful for assembling the burritos.
- Assemble the burritos: On each warmed tortilla, layer cooked rice, black beans, shredded cheddar cheese, slices of jerk chicken, a generous spoonful of mango salsa, grilled corn kernels, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Roll the burritos: Fold and roll up each tortilla by sealing the sides tightly to enclose all the ingredients, ensuring a neat burrito shape.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the jerk chicken burritos with extra mango salsa on the side for dipping or additional topping and enjoy this flavorful fusion dish.
Notes
- Make sure the chicken is cooked to at least 165°F for safe consumption.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the mango salsa based on your preferred spice level.
- For a healthier twist, use whole wheat tortillas or brown rice instead of white rice.
- Leftover burritos can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet or microwave.
- Add avocado slices or a squeeze of fresh lime for extra brightness and creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Caribbean Fusion
