Last updated on June 23, 2025
If you’re looking for a meal that’s not only delicious but also bright and refreshing, look no further than Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice. This dish combines succulent chicken with zesty cilantro lime rice, creating a delightful balance of flavors that make each bite memorable. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prepping for lunch. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the recipe, giving you all the tips and tricks you need to make it a hit in your kitchen. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice
This dish stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Second, it’s packed with flavor. The freshness of lime and cilantro elevates the dish, transforming it from ordinary to extraordinary. Finally, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for a family of picky eaters or trying to impress guests, this recipe will not disappoint.
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Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice recipe is a fresh, zesty, and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy, seasoned chicken served over fluffy rice infused with lime and cilantro makes for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or basmati)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime (juiced)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ons:
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers or corn
- 1/2 tsp cumin or paprika (for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil if desired. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for 6–7 minutes on each side or until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F. Remove and let rest before slicing.
- Cook the Rice: Rinse 1 cup rice under cold water. In a pot, combine rice with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes. Let sit 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Add Cilantro & Lime: Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice into the fluffed rice. Mix gently until evenly combined.
- Serve: Plate the rice, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Chicken thighs are more forgiving and juicier than breasts.
- Add garlic or cumin for a richer, deeper flavor.
- Leftovers can be turned into burrito bowls or wraps the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: cilantro lime rice, chicken and rice recipe, easy chicken dinner, healthy chicken recipe, skillet chicken meal
Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice
To craft your mouthwatering Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds that vital burst of flavor.
- Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens the overall taste.
- Rice: Use white rice or basmati for a light texture.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of your chicken and rice.
- Pepper: Adds a gentle warmth.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken and adding flavor.
- Garlic: Minced garlic can give an additional depth of flavor.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers or corn can be added for extra color and nutrition.
- Spices: Cumin or paprika can be sprinkled in for an extra kick.
How to Make Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice: Step by Step
Making Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice is straightforward! Follow these detailed steps to make this dish perfectly:
Cook the Chicken:
- Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil if desired for added flavor.
- Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Rice:
- While the chicken is cooking, rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
- In a pot, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for another 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
Mix in Cilantro and Lime:
- After fluffing the rice, add about 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro and the juice of one lime. Gently mix until the cilantro is evenly distributed throughout the rice.
Serve:
- Serve the sliced chicken over a generous scoop of cilantro lime rice. You can garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice
This dish is delightful on its own, but don’t hesitate to enhance your meal with the following serving suggestions:
- Salsa: Fresh salsa adds an exciting touch. Choose a mild or spicy variety, depending on your preference.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors of this dish.
- Salad: A light side salad can complement your meal and add a refreshing crunch.
- Beans: Black beans or pinto beans can be served on the side to add protein and texture.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice
Marinate the Chicken: For added flavor, consider marinating your chicken in lime juice, garlic, and cilantro for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse it with more depth.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and cilantro make a significant difference in flavor over dried versions.
Adjust the Rice: If you prefer a fluffier rice, add a little more water. If you prefer it more al dente, decrease the cooking time slightly.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to play around with spices like cumin or chili powder while seasoning the chicken for a more vibrant flavor profile.
Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices locked in.
Easy Variations for Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice
- Add Heat: If you enjoy spicy food, add chopped jalapeños into the rice or use a spicy seasoning blend on the chicken.
- Swap the Protein: Try using fish or shrimp instead of chicken for a lighter take on this dish.
- Go Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu for a delicious plant-based meal.
- Taco Style: Serve the chicken and rice with taco shells to create flavorful and fun chicken tacos topped with cilantro lime rice.
Storage Tips to Store Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice
If you have leftovers (which is always a possibility, given how tasty this dish is), here’s how to store them properly:
Refrigeration: Place any leftover chicken and cilantro lime rice in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and rice. Just ensure they are in freezer-safe containers. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat thoroughly.
Conclusion
Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice is a quick, delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bright flavors and simple preparation, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. It’s easy to customize, allowing you to cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create a wonderful meal that your whole family will love!
FAQs About Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be mindful that it will require a longer cooking time and more water.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and rice separately, then combine them when ready to serve. Store them in the fridge for a quick meal later.
What other herbs can I use instead of cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or basil can be great substitutes, though they bring different flavors.
Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Bake the chicken at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes or until it reaches the proper internal temperature.
Are there any side dishes that pair well with this meal?
Yes, a fresh garden salad, grilled vegetables, or beans are excellent companions to Chicken with Cilantro Lime Rice.
Now you’re all set to make this fantastic dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
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