Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream Recipe

There is something irresistibly vibrant and fresh about Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream that instantly brightens any meal. This dish combines the smoky, spicy thrill of perfectly grilled jerk chicken with a crisp, colorful mango slaw dressed in a luscious honey lime cream. Each bite balances heat and sweetness, crunch and creaminess, making it a go-to for warm weather gatherings or weeknight dinners that feel a little special. If you love bold flavors paired with fresh textures, these bowls are going to become one of your all-time favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the first step to mastering Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream. Each component plays a key role, from the tender chicken seasoned with lively jerk spices to the bright mango and cabbage slaw adding both texture and tropical sweetness.

• Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: These stay juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up the jerk seasoning.
• Jerk seasoning: The star of the chicken’s flavor with its blend of spices delivering heat and smokiness.
• Olive oil: Helps the seasoning cling to the chicken and keeps it juicy while grilling.
• Mango, diced: Adds a fresh, sweet punch that complements the spicy chicken beautifully.
• Cabbage, shredded: Provides a satisfying crunch and a vibrant backdrop for the slaw.
• Red bell pepper, sliced: Brings sweet notes and a pop of color to the bowl.
• Cilantro, chopped: Offers a fresh herbal brightness that balances the other flavors.
• Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the honey lime dressing.
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness to the dressing, tying everything together.
• Lime, juiced: Brings zesty acidity that cuts through the creaminess and heat.
• Salt and pepper: Essential to enhance all the flavors.

How to Make Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat to ensure you get those perfect char marks and smoky flavor. While it’s heating up, rub your boneless, skinless chicken thighs evenly with the jerk seasoning and a drizzle of olive oil. This combination lets the spices really seep into the meat while keeping it moist during grilling.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice golden crust on the outside with fully cooked, juicy chicken inside. The aroma as the jerk seasoning cooks will be enough to make your mouth water.

Step 3: Prepare the Mango Slaw

While the chicken is grilling, toss together diced mango, shredded cabbage, sliced red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro in a large bowl. This colorful medley forms the crunchy, tangy base of your bowls and contrasts beautifully with the rich chicken.

Step 4: Make the Honey Lime Cream Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, salt, and pepper. This simple yet flavorful dressing adds a creamy, slightly sweet zing that brightens the slaw and the entire bowl.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Pour your honey lime cream over the slaw mixture and toss everything gently so each bite has that creamy coating. Once the chicken is done, slice it against the grain and nestle the juicy pieces on top of the mango slaw. For an extra touch, drizzle more honey lime cream over the top and get ready to dig in.

How to Serve Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream

Garnishes

Brighten your bowls even further by adding fresh lime wedges, extra cilantro leaves, or a sprinkle of chopped green onions. These simple garnishes not only enhance the appearance but also add layers of fresh, zesty flavor that make each serving pop.

Side Dishes

For sides, consider fluffy coconut rice to balance the spicy chicken or warm, soft plantains for a touch of natural sweetness. A cool cucumber salad or simple black beans can also complement the vibrant flavors without overwhelming the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling festive? Serve your Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream layered in mason jars for a grab-and-go picnic or create individual taco cups by using crispy tortilla bowls as edible vessels. These options elevate presentation and make the meal all the more fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover jerk chicken and mango slaw keep well refrigerated in separate airtight containers for up to three days. Keeping the creamy dressing separate from the slaw until ready to eat helps preserve that vibrant crunch.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked jerk chicken pieces in a freezer-safe container for up to two months, but the fresh slaw and honey lime cream do not freeze well because the textures will change. Thaw chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add the honey lime cream and slaw back fresh at serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that chicken breasts cook a bit faster and can dry out if overcooked, so watch your grilling time carefully to keep them juicy.

Is it possible to make the slaw vegan?

Yes, you can swap the mayonnaise in the honey lime cream for a vegan mayo or creamy avocado to keep the dressing smooth and delicious without dairy.

How spicy is the jerk seasoning?

The heat level varies by brand or homemade recipe, but generally, it’s moderately spicy with smoky undertones. Adjust the amount to suit your tolerance or add a cooling element to the bowl if needed.

Can I prepare this dish indoors without a grill?

Definitely! Use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet to sear the chicken on your stovetop. You’ll still get a lovely char and smoky flavor with a little smoke or smoked paprika added to the seasoning.

What’s the best way to dice mango for the slaw?

Slice off the mango cheeks, score the flesh into cubes without cutting the skin, then scoop out with a spoon. This method is quick and keeps your mango pieces the perfect size for mixing in the slaw.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give these Jerk Chicken & Mango Slaw Bowls with Honey Lime Cream a try soon. They’re one of those perfectly balanced dishes that bring together spice, sweetness, creaminess, and crunch in a way that just feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding family or showing off a fresh new favorite at your next dinner, these bowls deliver on flavor and fun every time.

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