Save This Mango BBQ Chicken Tortilla Stack recipe is my go-to when I want something bright and unexpected for a weeknight dinner or a small get-together. It layers juicy grilled chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, fresh mango salsa, and just enough gooey cheese between crisp tortillas for a quick main dish that everyone gets excited about. Each bite combines Tex-Mex comfort with a tropical twist—sweet, smoky, savory, and a little spicy all at once.
The very first time I made these tortilla stacks, we had friends over for game night. By the end, the platter was empty and everyone was asking for the recipe. Now it is my most requested dish for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: for tender lean protein and easy absorbing of spices look for plump pieces with minimal fat
- Olive oil: adds moisture to the chicken and gets tortillas golden when baked choose extra virgin for fullest flavor
- Smoked paprika: for depth and a subtle smokiness try for the Spanish variety for authentic flavor
- Garlic powder: gives a light, aromatic kick use fresh powder for best results
- Salt and black pepper: enhance all the flavors grind pepper fresh if you can
- Ripe mango: for juicy sweetness and texture avoid stringy or overripe fruit look for fragrant and slightly soft mango
- Red onion: adds mild sharpness and a pretty purple color pick small or medium onions with papery skin
- Red bell pepper: offers crunch and sweetness a firm, shiny pepper works best
- Jalapeño: brings a gentle kick choose bright green ones without wrinkles
- Fresh cilantro: for lively green flavor and color
- Lime juice: brings brightness and ties everything together roll limes before juicing for more liquid
- Small flour tortillas: are the foundation make sure they are soft and pliable for stacking try homemade for an upgrade
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional): adds melty and creamy notes go for blocks and shred yourself for best melting
- BBQ sauce: for that signature smoky tang choose your favorite style from classic to spicy or even a fruit-infused kind
- Extra olive oil: for brushing helps the tortillas crisp up in the oven
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine chicken breasts, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Rub everything evenly over the chicken and let it soak up the flavors for ten minutes. This marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with smoky depth.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Cook the marinated chicken for about five to seven minutes per side until you have good grill marks and the juices run clear. Let it rest for five minutes before slicing so the chicken stays juicy.
- Make the Mango Salsa:
- Chop the mango, red onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño into small pieces. Mix them in a bowl with cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Gently toss to combine and set the salsa aside so the flavors meld. This step brings out the brightness and balances the BBQ notes.
- Crisp the Tortillas:
- Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit. Brush each side of the tortillas lightly with olive oil and lay them flat on a baking sheet. Bake for three to four minutes per side until they are just a bit crisp but still flexible. This keeps the stacks from getting soggy later.
- Assemble the Stacks:
- On each plate or tray, place a tortilla and spread two tablespoons of BBQ sauce over it. Add sliced chicken, spoonfuls of mango salsa, and a bit of cheese if you like. Place another tortilla on top and repeat the layers, finishing with more salsa and cheese.
- Bake the Stacks:
- Return the assembled stacks to the oven for four to five minutes. This melts the cheese and heats everything through without drying it out.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top each stack with extra cilantro for a fresh hit of flavor. Serve right away while the layers are warm and crisp.
Save I absolutely love the pop of fresh mango in these stacks. It is the ingredient that makes this whole recipe bright and different. Every summer when mangoes come into season, my family asks for these stacks on repeat. The combination of warm tortillas and cold salsa is a treat my kids never get tired of.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store unassembled stacks for best texture. Keep chicken, salsa, and tortillas in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat the chicken and tortillas before stacking to preserve crispness and freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use rotisserie chicken for speed or swap in leftover grilled chicken. Mango can be traded for fresh pineapple or peaches during other seasons. Monterey Jack is a milder cheese if cheddar feels too sharp and you can leave cheese out for a dairy-free dinner.
Serving Suggestions
These tortilla stacks work well as a dinner centerpiece with a side of avocado salad or simple black beans. For parties, slice into quarters and serve as hearty appetizers. A cold lager or fruity iced tea makes a great pairing.
Cultural and Historical Context
This recipe draws inspiration from classic Tex-Mex quesadillas but layers in bright mango salsa as a nod to Caribbean tropical flavors. BBQ chicken is beloved in both Texas and tropical regions so this dish bridges those tastes into something unique and crowd-pleasing.
Seasonal Adaptations
Top with sliced fresh avocado in spring or summer for added creamy texture. Use grilled peaches instead of mango for a late summer version. Try smoked turkey breast at Thanksgiving for a festive riff.
Save This recipe makes entertaining easy because so much can be made ahead and assembling the stacks is fun for kids and adults. Even picky eaters wind up loving the sweet salsa when paired with their favorite BBQ sauce.
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well for grilling and easy slicing, but thighs can also be used for added juiciness.
- → Can I use store-bought salsa instead of homemade?
Yes, store-bought mango salsa can be used for convenience, though fresh salsa offers brighter flavor and texture.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute flour tortillas with gluten-free versions to accommodate dietary needs without losing taste or texture.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Simply omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative; the stacks remain flavorful thanks to the spicy salsa and BBQ sauce.
- → Can the chicken be cooked in advance?
Yes, grilled chicken can be prepped ahead and assembled at mealtime, making it ideal for quick serving or meal prep.
- → What drinks pair well with these stacks?
Crisp lagers and fruity iced tea complement the sweet-and-savory profiles for a refreshing, balanced meal experience.