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Dinner Recipes / Zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe to Savor
Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe

Zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe to Savor

August 7, 2025 by SofiaDinner Recipes

The tantalizing aroma of cilantro lime chicken and rice wafts through the air, inviting you into a world of vibrant flavors and delightful textures. Imagine juicy chicken marinated in zesty lime, perfectly paired with fluffy rice that dances on your palate. It’s a dish that promises to elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary, making your taste buds do a happy jig.

Now, picture this: it’s a sunny Saturday afternoon, and you decide to whip up something special for your family. As you chop fresh cilantro and squeeze zesty lime, memories flood back of summer barbecues with friends, laughter echoing around the grill. The anticipation builds as this dish transforms your kitchen into a fiesta!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This cilantro lime chicken and rice is incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
  • The flavor profile bursts with freshness from the cilantro and tanginess from the lime, creating a symphony of taste.
  • Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served as a main dish or in tacos for a fun twist!

Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
  • Fresh Cilantro: Use bright green leaves for maximum flavor—it’s the star of the show!
  • Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed limes give this dish its signature zing—bottled juice just won’t cut it.
  • Garlic: A couple of cloves will add depth; fresh garlic is always preferable.
  • Olive Oil: A splash for marinating the chicken; it helps keep everything juicy.
  • Rice: Long-grain white rice or jasmine works best; it’s fluffy and absorbs the flavors beautifully.

For the Sauce:

  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control how salty your dish becomes.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the bold flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Add your chicken breasts to this zesty marinade. Cover it up and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (but if you’re feeling adventurous, leave it overnight).

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring two cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add one cup of long-grain rice along with a pinch of salt. Stir once or twice before covering with a lid. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (let any excess drip off) and place it in the hot skillet. Sear each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F).

Step 4: Combine Flavors

Once cooked, remove chicken from skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for five minutes before slicing. In the same skillet (after removing any burnt bits), add your cooked rice along with some extra chopped cilantro and squeeze more lime juice over everything.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Slice your chicken into strips or cubes and mix them gently into the cilantro-lime rice combination. Serve warm on plates with extra cilantro as garnish.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Transfer everything onto serving plates or bowls. Drizzle any leftover marinade over top if desired for an extra kick! Enjoy every bite!

And there you have it—a delightful plate of cilantro lime chicken and rice that’ll make you want to dance like nobody’s watching! So next time you’re looking for something fresh yet comforting, remember this recipe—it’s bound to become one of your favorites! creamy chicken pot pie.

You Must Know

  • This amazing cilantro lime chicken and rice recipe not only bursts with flavor but also makes meal prep a breeze.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, marinate the chicken in a zesty cilantro lime mix for at least 30 minutes. While it’s soaking up all that goodness, cook the rice until fluffy. Sear the chicken to lock in those flavors before tossing everything together for a delightful finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some diced bell peppers or black beans for extra texture. Spice it up with jalapeños for heat, or keep it mild—your kitchen, your rules!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep everything juicy and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • 1.

  • Let the chicken marinate longer than 30 minutes if possible; this enhances flavor absorption and juiciness.

  • 2.

  • Use day-old rice for better texture; freshly cooked rice can become mushy when mixed.
  • For more inspiration, check out this garlic parmesan smashed potatoes recipe.

  • 3.

  • Don’t skip the searing step; it creates a beautiful crust while locking in moisture and flavor.

Sometimes I think my friends are more excited about this cilantro lime chicken and rice than I am! Last week at dinner, they practically fought over the last scoop, which made my cooking heart sing with joy!

FAQs:

What are the main ingredients in Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice?

Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice features simple yet flavorful ingredients. You’ll need chicken breasts, fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and rice. Additionally, olive oil, salt, and pepper enhance the dish’s flavors. You can customize it with vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition. savory garlic butter steak This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and allows you to enjoy vibrant flavors without extensive preparation. The combination of tangy lime and fresh cilantro really elevates the chicken and rice.

How long does it take to prepare Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice?

Preparing Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. Most of the time is spent marinating the chicken in lime juice and cilantro, which infuses flavor into the meat. Cooking the rice simultaneously can save time, making this dish an excellent option for busy evenings. The overall process is straightforward, ensuring that you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I make Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice in advance?

Yes, you can easily make Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice in advance! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To prepare it ahead of time, marinate the chicken as directed, then cook it along with the rice. Store leftovers in airtight containers to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in a microwave or on a stovetop until heated through. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep. For more inspiration, check out this easy chicken fajitas recipe recipe.

What can I serve with Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice?

Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad for added crunch or grilled vegetables for a healthy option. For those who love a bit of spice, guacamole or salsa complements the flavors nicely. light and refreshing cucumber salad Additionally, warm tortillas can make your meal feel more festive. These sides enhance your dining experience while keeping it light and refreshing.

Conclusion for Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice:

Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish packed with vibrant flavors that everyone will love. With its simple ingredients like chicken breasts, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and rice, this recipe is easy to follow even on busy weeknights. quick and easy almond quesadillas You can prepare it quickly or make it ahead of time for meal prep convenience. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides for an elevated dining experience. Enjoy this tasty meal any night of the week!

Print

Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice

Print Recipe

Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice is a vibrant dish that combines juicy, marinated chicken with fluffy rice, all infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. With its bold flavors and delightful textures, this meal is sure to impress everyone at your table.

  • Author: sofia
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Searing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Cook the rice: In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add rice and a pinch of salt. Cover and simmer on low for about 18-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
  3. Sear the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
  4. Combine: Let the chicken rest for five minutes before slicing. Mix cooked rice with extra cilantro and lime juice in the skillet.
  5. Serve: Top the rice with sliced chicken; garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. - You can substitute shrimp or tofu for the chicken. - Enhance texture by adding diced bell peppers or black beans.

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