Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that combines sweet, spicy, and savory in one mouthwatering dish! This Mango Habanero Preserve Chicken is not just a meal, it's a flavor journey that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary gastronomic experience. Imagine tender, crispy chicken thighs glazed with a tantalizing mango habanero preserve that delivers a perfect balance of tropical sweetness and fiery heat - this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Fusion
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup mango habanero preserve
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Pat chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Season chicken thighs generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and is hot.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crispy skin, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Flip chicken thighs and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side to ensure even cooking.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and generously brush mango habanero preserve over the chicken, coating each thigh completely.
- Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, occasionally basting with the preserve, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving to add a bright, fresh flavor.
- Plate the chicken and drizzle any remaining pan glaze over the top for extra flavor intensity.
Tips
- Room Temperature Magic: Always let your chicken sit out for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Moisture is the Enemy of Crispiness: Pat your chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to achieve that irresistible crispy skin.
- Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the perfect 165°F internal temperature for safe and juicy results.
- Pan Selection Matters: A cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan will give you the best heat retention and most beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Basting is Key: Continuously baste the chicken with the mango habanero preserve during the final cooking stage to build layers of flavor and create a gorgeous, glossy finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 145mg
