Save to Pinterest This Mango BBQ Chicken Flatbread is the kind of recipe I turn to when I want something fun and flavorful but easy enough to whip up after work. It combines juicy marinated chicken, a tangy-sweet homemade mango BBQ sauce, and a pile of fresh toppings for a meal that always brings smiles around the table. Ideal for weeknight dinners or if you need a unique appetizer to wow some friends.
I first landed on this recipe searching for a tropical twist on dinner and it quickly earned a spot in our regular dinner rotation. Every time we serve this at gatherings, guests always ask for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Essential for tender, flavorful protein (be sure to pick fresh or high-quality meat for best results)
- Olive oil: Adds richness and keeps the chicken juicy during cooking (look for extra-virgin varieties)
- Smoked paprika: This gives lovely smoky depth (choose the Spanish kind for the biggest flavor impact)
- Garlic powder: Rounds out the marinade for savory aroma
- Salt and black pepper: Season the chicken perfectly (use Kosher salt for even flavor)
- Ripe mango: Fresh ripe mangoes bring natural sweetness and a tropical taste (pick fruit that feels soft when gently squeezed for juiciest results)
- Tomato ketchup: A classic BBQ base (provides tang and color—choose no-sugar-added if you prefer)
- Apple cider vinegar: Brings bright acidity (to ensure the sauce pops)
- Honey: Natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with mango (use local honey if you can)
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and complexity (always check labels for anchovy content if you have allergies)
- Chili powder: For a robust BBQ vibe (use fresh spices for boldest flavors)
- Cayenne pepper: Optional for those who like a touch of heat
- Flatbread or naan: Strong and chewy base for everything (pick up bakery-fresh or your favorite store brand)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and holds everything together (look for creamy whole milk mozzarella)
- Red onion: Adds sharpness and crunch (go for firm onions with shiny skin)
- Fresh cilantro: Adds color and a fresh burst of flavor (buy vibrant green leaves)
- Jalapeño: Optional for extra kick (use fresh glossy chiles)
- Olive oil: For brushing the flatbread and helping crisp the crust in the oven
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Mix olive oil smoked paprika garlic powder salt and black pepper in a bowl. Stir in chicken breasts ensuring each is evenly coated. Leave to marinate while prepping the sauce. This quick marinade infuses the chicken with deep flavor.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breasts for about four to five minutes per side until fully cooked and golden. Let the chicken rest so juices redistribute before slicing thinly. Resting keeps the meat juicy and easy to slice.
- Make the Mango BBQ Sauce:
- Blend diced mango ketchup apple cider vinegar honey Worcestershire sauce chili powder and cayenne if using until smooth. Pour into a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Taste for balance and adjust sweetness heat or tang as needed. A blender or food processor will give you a luscious puree.
- Assemble the Flatbreads:
- Lay out flatbreads on a baking sheet. Brush each with olive oil to crisp the edges. Spread a generous layer of mango BBQ sauce over each so every bite gets flavor.
- Add Toppings:
- Arrange sliced grilled chicken over the sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella and scatter thin red onion slices for bite. Balance cheese coverage for even melting.
- Bake:
- Slide the flatbreads into a preheated 425 degree oven. Bake for ten to twelve minutes until cheese is melted bubbling and the crust edges are golden and crisp. Watch the oven in the final minutes.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once out of the oven top with plenty of fresh cilantro leaves and jalapeño if you like extra spice. Slice into pieces and serve hot. This is the moment the kitchen smells irresistible.
Save to Pinterest I absolutely love how the sweet mango sauce mingles with the smoky paprika chicken. Every time I make this my youngest insists on adding extra cilantro and spends the meal picking their favorite bites. My family goes wild for this during summer months when mangoes are most flavorful.
Storage Tips
This flatbread holds up well in the fridge for up to two days. Store cooled slices in an airtight container and reheat at 350 degrees until warm and the crust is crisp again. If you want to keep it longer you can freeze the cooked flatbread tightly wrapped then thaw and reheat in the oven.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have fresh mango swap in one cup frozen mango chunks just thaw and drain well. For the cheese smoked gouda or sharp cheddar will add a new layer of flavor. Rotisserie chicken is a quick shortcut for busy days.
Serving Suggestions
Cut into small strips for a shareable party snack or serve alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal. I sometimes lay out extra mango BBQ sauce for dipping and it disappears fast. A light wheat beer or iced tea pairs well to balance the sweet and smoky notes.
Cultural and Seasonal Context
This flatbread has a global spirit mixing classic American BBQ ideas with the tropical brightness of mango and soft pillowy naan. Mango season brings the sauce to life so this is my go to dish from early summer into fall. It works for parties or quick meals throughout the year.
Save to Pinterest Serve this flatbread hot with lots of fresh toppings for a vibrant meal or appetizer. It is sure to become a favorite whether you make it for a quick dinner or to share with friends.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this flatbread?
Yes, rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken works well for quicker preparation. Slice and layer with sauce and toppings before baking.
- → What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
Try smoked gouda, cheddar, or any melting cheese to suit your taste. Each variation gives a different flavor and richness.
- → Is this flatbread spicy?
The jalapeño and cayenne add mild heat, but both are optional. Adjust or omit for a milder version.
- → Can I make the mango BBQ sauce ahead?
Yes, the sauce keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in a sealed container and use as needed.
- → Is this dish suitable for parties?
Absolutely—slice into small pieces for easy sharing at gatherings, making it a vibrant and crowd-pleasing option.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Use gluten-free flatbread or naan to adapt this dish for gluten-sensitive diets.