Mango Chili Margarita on the Rocks (or Frozen Pitcher Style!)

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8 Min Read

Sweet, spicy, and tangy — this Mango Chili Margarita might just become your new signature drink. It’s where tropical mango sweetness meets the fiery kick of jalapeño and the citrusy sparkle of lime. Whether you serve it on the rocks or make a frozen pitcher for a crowd, this easy mango margarita recipe delivers a vacation in every sip.

Bright mango, a rim kissed with Tajín, and that perfect chili-lime balance — this is the easy spicy margarita you’ll crave all summer long.

This recipe was born on a warm Friday evening in June when I had leftover mango puree from a smoothie experiment and a handful of jalapeños begging to be used. A little tequila, a little lime, and a whole lot of “why not?” — the result was this easy spicy mango margarita that tasted like a Mexican beach sunset in a glass.

It’s got just the right mix of sweet mango, zesty lime, and a hint of heat that lingers beautifully on the lips — especially when paired with that iconic Tajín rim.


Why You’ll Love It

  • Sweet & Spicy Harmony – A mango margarita with a fiery twist of chili and Tajín.
  • Customizable – Serve it frozen, on the rocks, or in a big pitcher for parties.
  • Tropical Vibes – Add pineapple for a sweet island flavor.
  • Quick & Easy – Ready in 10 minutes using simple ingredients.
  • Fresh Mango or Puree – Works both ways for max convenience.
  • Perfect for Cinco de Mayo or BBQs – Crowd-pleaser cocktail.
  • Batch-Friendly – Easily scaled for large gatherings.
  • Healthier Twist – No artificial mixers, just real fruit and natural sweetness.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients (for 2 servings):

  • 1 cup fresh mango chunks or ¾ cup mango puree
  • 3 oz silver tequila (Blanco)
  • 1 oz triple sec or Cointreau
  • 1½ oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz simple syrup or agave syrup
  • 1 slice fresh jalapeño, optional for heat
  • ½ cup ice (for on the rocks) or 1½ cups (for frozen)
  • Tajín or chili-lime salt for rim
  • Lime wedge for garnish
  • (Optional) ½ cup pineapple juice for a spicy pineapple mango margarita

Substitutions:

  • Swap tequila for mezcal for a smoky twist.
  • Use frozen mango if fresh isn’t available.
  • Replace agave with honey or coconut nectar for a healthier option.

Helpful Kitchen Tools

  • Blender (Ninja, Vitamix, or any high-speed model for frozen margaritas)
  • Cocktail shaker (for on-the-rocks version)
  • Measuring jigger
  • Citrus juicer
  • Small plate for Tajín rim
  • Margarita or rocks glasses

No shaker? Use a mason jar with a lid — works perfectly for quick mixing!


Quick Recipe Overview

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Servings: 2 cocktails (or 1 large glass pitcher)
  • Difficulty: Easy

Let’s Make It Together

Step-by-step making of mango chili margarita.

1. Prep Your Glass

Rub a lime wedge around the rim of each glass. Dip into Tajín or chili salt for that classic spicy-lime kick. Pro Tip: Chill your glasses for 10 minutes in the freezer first — the salt will stick better.

2. Blend It Up (Frozen Version)

In a blender, combine mango puree, tequila, lime juice, triple sec, simple syrup, jalapeño slice, and ice. Blend until smooth and slushy. Adjust sweetness or spice to taste.

3. Shake It (On the Rocks Version)

Add all ingredients with ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake for 15 seconds until the outside frosts. Strain into Tajín-rimmed glasses filled with ice.

4. Garnish & Serve

Garnish with a lime wheel, mango slice, or a chili pepper for flair.

Large pitcher of mango chili margarita with Tajín rim glasses.
Pro Tip: A drizzle of chamoy adds that signature Mexican tangy-sweet note.


Little Secrets for Success

  • Always use fresh lime juice — bottled just won’t pop the same.

  • Taste before serving — mango sweetness varies by season.

  • Add pineapple juice for a lighter, more tropical version.

  • Want more spice? Muddle a jalapeño slice before blending.

  • To make a large batch, multiply ingredients and serve in a pitcher over ice.


Fun Variations to Try

  • Spicy Pineapple Mango Margarita: Add ½ cup pineapple juice.

  • Mango Strawberry Margarita: Blend in a few strawberries for color and sweetness.

  • Coconut Mango Margarita: Replace simple syrup with coconut cream.

  • Extra Hot Version: Rim glass with crushed red pepper + Tajín.

  • Mocktail Twist: Skip alcohol, add sparkling water for a healthy mango chili spritz.

  • Big Batch Party Pitcher: Mix everything ahead, chill, and serve with an ice bucket.


Perfect Pairings

This drink pairs beautifully with:

  • Tacos al pastor or grilled shrimp skewers

  • Mango salsa or guacamole with chili-lime chips

  • Sweet-Spicy Chicken Tenders (see my other recipe!)

  • Fresh ceviche or Mexican street corn

📌 Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later! It’s the kind of cocktail you’ll want on repeat every weekend.


A Sip Full of Health

Fresh mango brings a natural dose of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while lime juice supports hydration and digestion. This cocktail skips artificial mixes and syrups — so while it’s still an alcoholic treat, it’s a much cleaner choice than store-bought margarita blends.


How to Save It for Later

  • Fridge: Store leftover mixture (without ice) in a sealed jar up to 24 hours. Shake before serving.

  • Freezer: Freeze in zip bags for up to 1 month. Blend again for a quick frozen margarita later.

  • Pitcher tip: If making ahead for a party, blend everything except ice — add ice just before serving.


Questions You Might Have

Can I make this without alcohol?
Absolutely! Skip the tequila and triple sec — add orange juice and soda water instead.

Can I use frozen mango?
Yes! It gives a thicker, creamier texture — ideal for the frozen version.

What if I don’t like it spicy?
Leave out the jalapeño and Tajín, or use just a tiny pinch for a hint of flavor.

Can I use store-bought mango puree?
Yes, just check that it’s 100% fruit without added sugar or flavorings.

What’s the best tequila for this recipe?
Silver or Blanco tequila — crisp, clean, and perfect for fruity cocktails.


Nutrition Breakdown (per serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories: ~210 kcal
Protein: 1 g
Carbs: 25 g
Fat: 0 g
Fiber: 1 g

Whether you’re blending up a frozen batch for friends or shaking one on the rocks after a long day, this Mango Chili Margarita hits every note — bright, sweet, spicy, and full of sunshine. It’s a drink that feels like summer no matter the season.

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