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
Scale
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
