There’s something undeniably uplifting about a meal that captures the flavors of summer while being effortless to prepare. Imagine walking into your kitchen, greeted by the zesty aroma of fresh lime mingling with the vibrant scent of cilantro—it’s like a mini-vacation right at home!
This One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice is my go-to recipe when I want to whip up something that impresses without the fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll find this dish quickly becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire. Succulent chicken breasts sear to golden perfection, then they soak up a deliciously tangy marinade while fragrant rice cooks to fluffy perfection alongside it.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe delivers both flavor and heart. Join me in discovering how simple it can be to create a meal that feels special yet doesn’t rob you of precious time. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
- The vibrant flavors of cilantro and lime create a refreshing dish that tantalizes the taste buds with every bite.
- Its versatility means you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to match your preferences.
- Plus, the one-pan method simplifies cleanup, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when entertaining a crowd.
One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to this vibrant dish!
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – these are the heart of the meal, tender and juicy.
• Fresh garlic – minced for a fragrant kick that elevates the flavors.
• Low-sodium soy sauce – adds a savory depth without overwhelming the dish.
For the Flavoring
• Fresh cilantro – a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with lime.
• Freshly squeezed lime juice – the star ingredient that provides a zesty zing.
For the Rice
• Long-grain rice – fluffy and perfect for soaking up the delicious marinade.
• Chicken broth – enhances the rice with a rich, savory flavor and keeps it moist.
For Cooking
• Olive oil – ideal for searing the chicken, adding a hint of richness.
• Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning, adjust to taste for the perfect balance.
This One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice is a delightful way to enjoy bold flavors while keeping things simple!
How to Make One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), setting the stage for a delicious meal. This temperature ensures perfect cooking, leaving your chicken juicy and the rice fluffy.
-
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step adds essential flavor, creating a delightful base for your dish.
-
Sear the chicken by heating olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each breast for about 5 minutes on each side until they achieve a lovely golden brown color.
-
Whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and chicken broth in a bowl. Pour this vibrant marinade over the seared chicken, infusing each bite with zesty goodness.
-
Add the rice around the chicken in the skillet, gently pressing it down into the liquid. This ensures the rice absorbs all those delectable flavors while cooking.
-
Cover the skillet with foil or a lid and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender, soaking up all the delicious sauce.
Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro before serving for an added touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe, allowing your unique tastes to shine through in every bite!
- Herb Boost: Swap cilantro for fresh parsley or basil to create a different flavor profile that’s equally delicious.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Incorporate bell peppers and corn with the rice for a pop of color and sweetness; their texture will complement the dish beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the marinade for a delightful heat that awakens the palate.
- Coconut Rice: Use coconut milk instead of chicken broth for the rice for a tropical twist that enhances the dish’s richness.
- Lime Zing: Add lime zest to the marinade for an extra layer of citrusy brightness that heightens each mouthful.
- Brown Rice: Substitute long-grain rice with brown rice for a heartier, nutty flavor; just increase the cooking time to ensure it cooks through completely.
- Grilled Version: Grill the chicken instead of baking for a smoky flavor, finishing it on the stovetop with the rice and marinade in a sauté pan.
- Cheesy Finish: Stir in shredded cheese just before serving for a creamy texture that melds wonderfully with the tangy lime and fresh flavors.
Each of these variations invites you to personalize your dish, ensuring that every family meal becomes a cherished experience!
How to Store and Freeze One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for best results.
Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Watch as those zesty flavors come alive again!
What to Serve with One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice?
Imagine a delightful spread that perfectly complements your zesty chicken and rice dish, enhancing every bite while creating a harmonious meal experience.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots tossed in olive oil adds vibrant color and a sweet, earthy contrast.
-
Fresh Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado with diced tomatoes and onions brings a refreshing element that balances the zesty chicken beautifully.
-
Chili Lime Corn: Sweet corn drizzled with lime and a sprinkle of chili powder creates a bright, tangy side that mirrors the flavors of your main dish.
-
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices, adding a comforting touch to your meal.
-
Pineapple Salsa: This sweet and tangy salsa not only brightens your plate but also adds a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the cilantro lime profile.
-
Coconut Rice: For a unique take, consider serving a side of coconut rice—its subtle sweetness makes it a perfect companion to the savory chicken.
-
Herbal Iced Tea: A chilled herbal iced tea infused with mint and lime can refreshingly round off your meal, keeping the flavor profile cohesive and uplifting.
-
Lime Mousse: For dessert, a light lime mousse offers a delicate finish, echoing the citrus notes of your chicken while providing a sweet note to end on.
Make Ahead Options
These One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can season and sear the chicken, then whisk together the marinade and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can measure out the rice and chop the cilantro ahead of time. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove the chicken and marinade from the refrigerator, add the rice to the skillet, pour the marinade over, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy a flavorful meal that’s just as delicious yet requires minimal effort on the day you serve it!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing the One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice, be sure to season the chicken evenly with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the chicken; this allows for a proper golden crust to form.
- For the best flavor infusion, let the marinade sit for a few minutes before pouring it over the chicken to ensure the garlic and cilantro fully release their aromas.
- Finally, check the chicken’s internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is perfectly cooked without drying out.
One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish as they remain tender and juicy throughout the cooking process. If you want a richer flavor, you can also use chicken thighs, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How should I store leftovers from the One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on the stovetop or in the microwave. Doing so will help retain the moistness and keep those vibrant flavors intact!
Can I freeze this One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice?
Certainly! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. To do so, portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best results.
What could cause my rice to be undercooked?
If your rice comes out undercooked, it might be due to not enough liquid or not covering the skillet while baking. Make sure to add enough chicken broth, and ensure the skillet is tightly covered to trap steam. If needed, you can add a splash of broth while reheating to help soften the rice.
Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
Always check for allergies! This recipe contains soy sauce, which may trigger soy allergies. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead. Additionally, if someone has a citrus allergy, you can substitute the lime with apple cider vinegar to maintain a bit of the tang without the citrus elements.
How can I customize this recipe?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or corn. Just be sure to sauté them a bit before adding to the skillet, or layer them in with the chicken so they cook perfectly alongside it. Enjoy experimenting to make it your own!
One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes on each side.
- Whisk together lime juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and chicken broth in a bowl. Pour over seared chicken.
- Add the rice around the chicken, pressing it down into the liquid.
- Cover the skillet and bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked and rice is tender.
Leave a Comment