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Fresh Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe with Fluffy Rice Easy and Perfect Meal

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A quick and easy recipe featuring tender chicken marinated in fresh cilantro and lime, served with fluffy lime-scented rice. Perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (about a small handful)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (preferably basmati)
  • 2 cups water (480 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest (grated from 1 lime)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional garnishes: extra chopped cilantro, lime wedges, thinly sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until well blended (about 5 minutes).
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, ideally 1 hour.
  3. Rinse 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until water runs clear. Drain well.
  4. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil with a pinch of salt and 1 tablespoon butter. Add the drained rice and lime zest, stir once, cover with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer gently for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  5. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  6. Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and cook for 6-7 minutes per side (12-14 minutes total) until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice against the grain.
  8. Serve the fluffy lime-scented rice topped with sliced cilantro lime chicken. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 20 minutes, ideally 1 hour for best flavor. Rinse rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and prevent clumping. Cook rice with lid on to trap steam. Let chicken rest after cooking to retain juices. If chicken browns too fast, lower heat and cover loosely with foil to finish cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime chicken, fluffy rice, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, weeknight meal, gluten-free, healthy chicken

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