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
Scale
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