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Quick Cilantro Lime Chicken with Rice

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A quick and easy 30-minute meal featuring zesty cilantro lime marinated chicken served over fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice or jasmine rice
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • Zest of 1 lime (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: 1 avocado sliced, 1/2 cup black beans rinsed and drained, crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken strips with lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  2. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Add rice, salt, and lime zest. Stir once, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let steam with lid on for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  3. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken strips in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Cook in batches if needed.
  4. Serve rice topped with cilantro lime chicken. Garnish with extra cilantro and optional toppings like avocado slices, black beans, or queso fresco. Serve immediately.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 10 minutes but no longer than 30 to avoid texture changes. Rinse rice to prevent clumping. Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing chicken to get a nice crust. Use lime zest in rice for extra brightness. For gluten-free, ensure broth is gluten-free. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime chicken, quick chicken recipe, easy dinner, 30-minute meal, weeknight dinner, chicken and rice, zesty chicken

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/quick-cilantro-lime-chicken-with-rice-recipe-easy-zesty-30-minute-meal/