If you're looking for a fresh, flavor-packed dinner that doubles as amazing meal prep, this chicken with cilantro lime rice is it. Juicy, seasoned chicken served over fluffy cilantro lime rice, topped with fire-roasted corn and creamy avocado , it's the perfect balance of zesty, savory, and satisfying.
Whether you're building rice bowls, burrito bowls, or just need a simple weeknight win, this recipe checks every box.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you'll definitely want to try my Easy Chili Lime Shrimp Bowls, Easy and Healthy Air Fryer Salmon Bites Bowl, Grilled Balsamic Chicken with a Strawberry and Avocado Salsa
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright, fresh flavor from fresh lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro
- Juicy chicken that cooks quickly over medium heat to high heat
- Naturally gluten-free and easy to customize
- Perfect for rice bowls, burrito bowls, or weekly meal prep
- Family-friendly with simple, wholesome ingredients
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Ingredients
Here is everything you need to make this delicious and easy chicken with cilantro lime rice:
- Chicken breasts - Lean, high-protein and perfect for soaking up the bold fajita seasoning. When cubed into 1-inch pieces, they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can also swap for chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
- Avocado oil - Helps the chicken brown beautifully at medium to high heat. It has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it ideal for skillet cooking. Olive oil works too!
- Siete chicken fajita seasoning - A clean, convenient way to pack in smoky, bold flavor without measuring multiple spices. It seasons the chicken perfectly in one easy step.
- White rice - The base of this cilantro lime rice recipe. Fluffy, simple, and perfect for soaking up all that fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Jasmine rice is a great swap for extra fragrance.
- Fresh lime - The key to that bright, zesty flavor! Fresh lime juice (and a little lime zest if you want extra punch) brings the perfect balance to the rice.
- Fresh cilantro - The star of cilantro lime rice. Finely chopped and stirred in at the end for vibrant color and fresh flavor - a must for cilantro lovers.
- Fire-roasted corn - Adds natural sweetness and a slightly smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the seasoned chicken and rice bowls.
- Avocado - Creamy, healthy fats that balance the zesty rice and savory chicken. It also adds that burrito bowl feel.
- Hot sauce (optional) - For a little heat and extra flavor boost on top of the rice. Totally customizable depending on your spice preference.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
- Season the Chicken- Slice your chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, toss with the fajita seasoning until evenly coated.
- Prep the Fresh Ingredients - Chop the fresh cilantro, zest and halve the lime, and slice the avocado.
- Cook the Rice- Cook rice according to package instructions using the recommended cups of water, salt generously.(For extra flavor, swap some water for chicken stock next time.)
- Cook the Chicken-Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side. Cook until browned and the chicken cooks through to an internal temperature of 165°F. If needed, raise to high heat briefly for extra browning. Remove from heat.
- 5. Heat the Corn- Warm fire-roasted corn in a pan over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
- Make the Cilantro Lime Rice- Once the rice is done fluff with a fork. Stir in: Juice from 1 lime, and chopped cilantro. Mix until fully combined. Taste and add extra lime zest or black pepper if desired.
- Assemble - Spoon rice into bowls. Add chicken on top of the rice, then corn and avocado. Drizzle with hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve and enjoy!
Substitutions
- Bell Peppers : Swap out corn for bell peppers
- Olive Oil : Can use olive oil instead of avocado oil
- Brown Rice : For extra fiber switch out white rice with brown!
This recipe is already dairy and gluten free. (Double check hot sauce and seasoning if using different brand)
Variations
- Burrito Bowl Style - Add black beans, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese to turn it into hearty burrito bowls.
- Creamy Twist - Blend cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and a spoonful of sour cream in a food processor for a creamy drizzle over your rice bowls.
Equipment
- Large skillet or rice skillet
- Medium saucepan (to cook rice)
- Large bowl
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Optional: food processor for sauces
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Keep avocado separate to prevent browning.
- Reheat chicken and rice in the microwave with a splash of water.
- Great for meal prep portion into individual rice bowls for easy lunches.
Christina's Dietitian Tip
To boost protein and fiber, add black beans or serve alongside a simple corn salad. Using jasmine rice gives amazing flavor, but brown rice offers more fiber and longer-lasting fullness.
Balancing lean protein, healthy fats (avocado), and carbs makes this a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
FAQ
Yes! Chicken thighs are slightly juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just make sure the chicken cooks to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Rinse the rice before cooking and use the correct ratio of cups of water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork instead of stirring too much.
Absolutely! Store the chicken and cilantro lime rice in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Keep avocado separate and add fresh toppings when ready to eat.
Easy and Healthy Dinners
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Meal Prep
Looking for more meal prep friendly, here are some of my favorite:
Jump to: Recipe
Healthy And Easy Chicken With Cilantro Lime Rice
Equipment
- Large skillet or rice skillet
- Medium saucepan (to cook rice)
- Large bowl
- Sharp knife + cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Optional: food processor for sauces
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 package Siete chicken fajita seasoning
- 1.5 cups white dry rice
- 1 avocado
- 1 12 oz package frozen fire roasted corn
- 1 lime
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Season the Chicken - Slice your chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, toss with the fajita seasoning until evenly coated.
- Prep the Fresh Ingredients - Chop the fresh cilantro, zest and halve the lime, and slice the avocado.
- Cook the Rice- Cook rice according to package instructions using the recommended cups of water. Salt generously.(For extra flavor, swap some water for chicken stock next time.)
- Cook the Chicken-Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side. Cook until browned and the chicken cooks through to an internal temperature of 165°F. If needed, raise to high heat briefly for extra browning. Remove from heat.
- Heat the Corn-Warm fire-roasted corn in a pan over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
- Make the Cilantro Lime Rice- Once the rice is done, fluff with a fork. Stir in juice from 1 lime and chopped cilantro. Mix until fully combined. Taste and add extra lime zest or black pepper if desired.
- Assemble- Spoon rice into bowls. Add chicken on top of the rice, then corn and avocado. Drizzle with hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Food Safety
- Cook chicken to a minimum temperature of 165 F.
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
- See more guidelines at USDA.
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