Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice
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.
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- Combine: Let the chicken rest for five minutes before slicing. Mix cooked rice with extra cilantro and lime juice in the skillet.
- 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.