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Flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Bowls Easy Spicy Dressing Recipe

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A quick and easy cilantro lime chicken and rice bowl with a bright, spicy dressing that balances tangy, herbaceous, and smoky flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup long grain white rice or jasmine rice (uncooked)
  • 2 cups water or chicken broth
  • Pinch of salt
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder or smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: diced avocado, fresh sliced radishes, chopped green onions, extra cilantro leaves, pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
  2. Add chicken breasts or thighs to the marinade, coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (1-2 hours preferred).
  3. Rinse rice under cold water until clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups water or chicken broth and a pinch of salt to a boil. Add rice, stir once, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  4. Whisk together Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, chipotle chili powder, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to make the spicy dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken 5-6 minutes per side until charred and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Cook in batches if needed. Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing.
  6. Assemble bowls by dividing rice among four bowls, topping with sliced chicken, drizzling with spicy dressing, and adding optional toppings as desired.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 20 minutes, preferably 1-2 hours for best flavor. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Let chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy. Use chicken broth instead of water for more flavorful rice. Adjust chipotle powder gradually to control spice level. Fresh cilantro is essential for best flavor. Dressing can be made dairy-free by substituting coconut yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime chicken, chicken and rice bowl, spicy dressing, quick dinner, easy weeknight meal, healthy chicken recipe

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