One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Fiesta

Name: One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: September 19, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful one-pan wonder simplifies meal prep without compromising on flavor
The bright flavors of cilantro and lime create a fresh, vibrant dish everyone will adore
Its colorful presentation makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
Perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough for entertaining guests

I’ll never forget the look on my friend Lisa’s face when she took her first bite—pure bliss! She immediately declared it her new favorite recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work wonders here; adjust based on how many hungry mouths are around. For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles recipe.
Long-Grain Rice: Use long-grain rice for fluffy texture; it soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Fresh Cilantro: Make sure it’s bright green and fragrant; it’ll elevate your dish to new heights.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds zest; bottled just won’t cut it!
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; choose firm ones for maximum flavor.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth infuses flavor without overpowering the dish. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini recipe.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil keeps everything nice and moist during cooking.
Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Salt, Pepper): These spice heroes elevate every bite with their warmth and richness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients together. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic to release its aromatic goodness.

Heat Things Up: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add in those glorious chicken pieces until they turn golden brown—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick.

Add Aromatics and Spices: Toss in minced garlic along with cumin and paprika. Sauté until fragrant—around 1-2 minutes—because who doesn’t love that smell wafting through their kitchen?

Toss in Rice and Broth: Stir in the long-grain rice followed by chicken broth and lime juice. Bring everything to a gentle boil; this is where magic starts to happen.

Cilantro Time!: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover for about 15-20 minutes until rice is tender. Don’t forget to fold in chopped cilantro right before serving for that burst of freshness!

Serve with Flair!: Fluff everything with a fork and serve hot! You can garnish with extra lime wedges or more cilantro if you’re feeling fancy.

Now you have an incredible One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice that’s not only easy but also bursting with flavor! Enjoy every last bite while basking in your culinary glory—you deserve it! zesty chicken tortilla soup. sweet potato chicken soup.

You Must Know

This one pan cilantro lime chicken and rice is a game changer for busy weeknights
With just one skillet, you can create a dish that’s packed with flavor and super easy to clean up afterward
The zesty lime aroma will have everyone at the dinner table in no time

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown. Then, sauté the onions and garlic before adding rice and broth for a harmonious blend.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to throw in some black beans or corn for added texture and nutrition. Experimenting with spices can also elevate the flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat for optimal texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh cilantro to brighten flavors; it makes a world of difference
Ensure your chicken is properly seasoned before cooking to maximize taste
Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning levels, ensuring perfection with every bite

Sharing this dish with friends turned into a hilarious competition to see who could finish their plate first, resulting in laughter and full bellies!

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but it will require additional cooking time and liquid.

What can I substitute if I don’t have cilantro?

Try parsley or basil for a fresh herb alternative that still adds flavor.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to eat.

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