If there’s one dish I could make forever and never tire of, it’s this Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe. Every bite sings with juicy, zesty chicken nestled into fluffy, flavor-packed rice, all perfumed by fresh cilantro and bright lime. The best part? It’s a one-pan wonder that’s genuinely easy enough for any night of the week but impressive enough to serve guests. If you’re searching for something simple but big on taste, let me tempt you with my all-time favorite go-to recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe is handpicked for maximum flavor and color, coming together in perfect harmony. Don’t skip or swap if you can help it—the magic really happens when these simple pantry staples mingle just right!
- Chicken thighs or breasts: Juicy and tender, these soak up the tangy marinade and stay wonderfully moist.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the chicken brown beautifully while keeping everything silky.
- Garlic powder: Infuses every bite with savory flavor without overpowering the zesty lime.
- Ground cumin: Gives the dish depth and a gentle earthiness that pairs perfectly with citrus.
- Paprika: Brings a hint of warmth and gorgeous color to both the chicken and rice.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and really waking up the natural flavors.
- Lime juice and zest: Freshness overload—these add a tangy kick and that irresistible citrus aroma.
- Long grain white rice: Classic, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up all those tasty juices.
- Chicken broth: Enriches the rice while building layers of flavor—ditch water for this step!
- Chopped fresh cilantro: The grand finale; herbal, green, and so fragrant.
- Lime wedges: For squeezing over just before serving—don’t skip this, it brightens up everything!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, lime juice, and lime zest in a big bowl. Add your chicken pieces and give them a nice toss, making sure every bit is coated in all that flavor. Let it marinate for at least 15–30 minutes—if you’re able, extend this up to 4 hours in the fridge for an even deeper infusion of zest and spice.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat your largest skillet over medium-high. Add the marinated chicken and cook each side for about 5–6 minutes. You want it golden and thoroughly cooked, with those slightly crispy edges that always bring out extra flavor. Once it’s done, set the chicken aside on a plate—but keep all the tasty bits in the pan!
Step 3: Toast and Cook the Rice
In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice. Let it toast for one or two minutes, stirring gently. This little step makes the rice nutty and ensures it’ll be fluffy after cooking. Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a good boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
Step 4: Finish with Cilantro and Lime
Once the rice is perfectly tender and the liquid has been absorbed, fluff it lightly with a fork. Stir in your freshly chopped cilantro for that big herbal note. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling those golden pieces right into the rice. Squeeze a bit of extra lime juice over everything for an instant lift and pop of flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for! Serve your Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe hot, with lime wedges on the side for a final splash of brightness. Every forkful is loaded with color, aroma, and fantastic flavor.
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Pile on the fresh cilantro leaves, add extra lime wedges, or throw on a few quick-pickled red onions for a punch of color. Crumbled queso fresco or a sprinkle of chili flakes will take things to the next level if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
This Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe is plenty satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, sautéed peppers, grilled corn, or a scoop of black beans. For a celebratory spread, warm tortillas or tortilla chips for scooping up every flavorful bit.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken and rice in shallow bowls for a rustic vibe, or spoon it into bell pepper halves for a fun, colorful twist. If you’re feeding a crowd, arrange everything family-style in one big platter with all the bold garnishes on top—everyone will want seconds!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store everything in an airtight container—just let it cool to room temperature first so the rice doesn’t get soggy.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze portions of the chicken and rice in freezer-safe containers or zipped bags. It’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 months! Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat the Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water. This keeps the rice moist and the chicken from drying out, so lunch or dinner the next day tastes just as special as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor, but it will need extra cooking time and a bit more broth. Just keep an eye on it and add liquid as needed until the rice is fully tender.
Is it possible to grill the chicken for this recipe?
Yes, grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing gives a fantastic smoky flavor! Just cook until fully done, then slice and nestle over the rice right before serving for a summery twist.
Can I make this dish dairy-free and gluten-free?
This Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, and there’s no dairy involved—making it perfect for a variety of dietary needs.
What other proteins can I use in this recipe?
If you’re looking to switch things up, this marinade works beautifully with shrimp or even firm tofu for a vegetarian spin. Adjust cooking times as needed depending on the protein you choose.
Can I add vegetables to the rice?
Definitely! Stir in some corn, black beans, diced bell peppers, or peas along with the broth for extra color and heartiness. This lets you customize the Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe to your taste and boost the veggie count.
Final Thoughts
Try this Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe once, and I promise it’ll earn a spot in your meal rotation! It’s delicious, flexible, and a true crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun dinner with friends, I can’t wait for you to dig in and savor every flavorful bite.
Print
Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice recipe is a flavorful and satisfying one-pan meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken marinated in zesty lime and cilantro is paired with aromatic rice cooked in chicken broth. A burst of fresh flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- juice and zest of 2 limes
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, lime juice, and lime zest. Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- Prepare the Rice: In the same skillet, toast rice for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth, bring to a boil, then simmer for 18–20 minutes. Fluff rice, stir in cilantro, and return chicken to the pan.
- Serve: Squeeze extra lime juice over the top. Serve hot with lime wedges.
Notes
- For extra flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-searing.
- You can also add black beans or corn to the rice.
- Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
