If you’re searching for a seriously flavor-packed dinner that’s quick to whip up but feels like a celebratory meal, let me introduce you to Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice. Juicy, spice-rubbed chicken sits atop a bed of herb-flecked, citrusy rice, making every bite lively, bright, and comforting. Whether you’re trying it for a weeknight dinner or showing off for friends, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple the first time you try it. The combination of Cajun heat, cooling coriander, and tangy lime is truly irresistible!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice comes together with a handful of powerful ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, from spice and zing to fragrant herbs and satisfying textures. Here’s everything you’ll need and why you need it:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts act as the perfect canvas for soaking up all those Cajun flavors and stay deliciously juicy when cooked properly.
- Cajun Seasoning: This bold blend of paprika, garlic, and warming spices is what gives the chicken its signature kick—use homemade or store-bought, but don’t be shy with it!
- Olive Oil: Infuses the chicken with extra moisture and helps the seasoning adhere, while adding rich undertones when searing.
- Lime Juice: The acidity brings zing to both the rice and chicken, keeping everything vibrant and fresh with every forkful.
- Long-Grain White Rice: The ideal base—its fluffy texture absorbs the citrus and herb notes, making it anything but boring.
- Chicken Broth or Water: Cooking the rice in broth deepens the flavor; water works too, but broth takes it to another level.
- Fresh Cilantro (Coriander): Chopped cilantro gives the rice a burst of herby freshness and that unmistakable green pop.
- Lime Zest: Packing a punch of fragrant citrus, zest highlights everything you love about lime, amping up both aroma and flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and lifting all the other flavors—season each component to taste for the best result.
- Lime Wedges & Extra Cilantro (Optional): For topping and garnishing, these finishing touches make every plate look and taste restaurant-worthy.
How to Make Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by rubbing the chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning and a drizzle of olive oil. Let the magic happen as the spices soak into the meat. Don’t rush this step—a quick 10 minutes does wonders, but longer only deepens the flavor!
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine the long-grain rice with chicken broth (or water). Bring to a rolling boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes. When the rice is tender and all the liquid’s absorbed, you’re set for a truly vibrant side.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
While the rice works its magic, heat a skillet over medium. Add those marinated chicken breasts and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, getting them beautifully golden outside and juicy within. Rest the chicken for five minutes before you slice—this keeps all those savory juices locked in.
Step 4: Finish the Rice
When the rice is just right, fluff it up with a fork. Stir in the lime juice, lime zest, and freshly chopped coriander. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. This step transforms the rice into an aromatic, zesty, herbaceous bed that’s worthy of the Cajun chicken on top!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the rested Cajun chicken and layer it over your fragrant coriander and lime rice. If you love color and a little extra punch, scatter over some fresh cilantro and squeeze on extra lime. Gather around the table and dive into this unforgettable Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice!
How to Serve Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice
Garnishes
For a show-stopping finish, sprinkle extra fresh cilantro and add generous lime wedges alongside. Not only do these garnishes add bursts of color and freshness, but that squeeze of lime right before eating makes each bite pop with citrusy brightness.
Side Dishes
Want a more robust meal? Try serving your Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice alongside sautéed vegetables, roasted bell peppers, or a simple black bean salad. These sides echo the dish’s bold flavors while adding more texture and nutrition to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, serve this dish on a large platter with the sliced chicken fanned over the shimmering green-flecked rice—a feast for the eyes and the palate. Or try layering the rice and chicken in individual bowls for a casual build-your-own approach that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the chicken and coriander lime rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Both will keep their flavors for up to 3 days, making quick lunches a breeze!
Freezing
Freeze the chicken and rice in separate containers for up to 2 months. When freezing the rice, let it cool completely first—this helps maintain its fluffy texture. Label your containers and you’ll have an instant homemade meal ready any night of the week.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken and rice on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to help revive the flavors and moisture. For fast lunches, the microwave works too—just sprinkle a bit of water over the rice before covering and heating.
FAQs
What makes Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice so flavorful?
The bold Cajun spices combine with tangy lime, fragrant coriander, and a rich chicken base, creating a truly excitable balance of spicy, fresh, and savory elements—every ingredient amps up the taste in this vibrant fusion dish.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re cooked through. Either cut—breasts or thighs—works beautifully in this Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice recipe.
Is there a vegetarian way to make this dish?
You can swap the chicken for grilled tofu or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version. The Cajun spice mix and the coriander-lime rice create a flavorful base for all kinds of proteins.
How spicy is Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice?
The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning and whether you add extra cayenne—it’s easy to adjust! Start mild and let each person add more heat if they crave extra spice.
Can I prepare the rice in advance?
Definitely! Make the rice a day ahead and refrigerate; just fluff it up with a fork and stir in the fresh lime juice, zest, and coriander right before serving to keep those flavors bright and vivid.
Final Thoughts
Once you give this Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice a try, you’ll see why it’s the kind of dish you want on repeat—it’s quick, colorful, and bursting with layered flavors. Gather your ingredients, treat yourself and your loved ones, and prepare for high-fives all around. Let this one become a new favorite in your kitchen—happy cooking!
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Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice recipe combines bold Cajun flavors with zesty lime and fresh coriander for a delicious and satisfying meal. Tender chicken seasoned with Cajun spices is served over fragrant lime-infused rice, creating a fusion of Cajun and Latin-inspired tastes.
Ingredients
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Coriander and Lime Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (coriander)
- juice of 1 lime
- zest of 1 lime
- salt and pepper to taste
- lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cajun Chicken: Rub chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and olive oil. Marinate for 10 minutes.
- Coriander and Lime Rice: Fluff cooked rice and mix in lime juice, zest, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve sliced Cajun chicken over rice. Garnish with lime and cilantro.
In a saucepan, combine rice and broth. Simmer until tender. Cook chicken in a skillet until done. Rest and slice.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne to the Cajun seasoning.
- You can also grill the chicken instead of pan-searing.
- Serve with sautéed vegetables or black beans for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion (Cajun & Latin-inspired)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with rice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
