Get ready for a delicious and healthy meal with this easy lime chicken recipe. It features lime chicken breast rice pilaf as the main dish. You only need a few ingredients like chicken breast, lime juice, and rice. It’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
This dish takes 4 hours and 25 minutes to prepare, including 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking. The marinade time is at least 4 hours, but it’s worth the wait. It serves 4 people, with each serving having about 266 kcal.
You’ll need 60 ml of lime juice, which is 2 whole limes, and 680 g of chicken breast. This is about 4 medium skinless boneless chicken breasts.
Key Takeaways
- You can make this easy lime chicken recipe with simple ingredients like chicken breast, lime juice, and rice.
- This healthy chicken and rice recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner, with a total time of 4 hours and 25 minutes.
- The dish serves 4 people, with each serving containing approximately 266 kcal.
- You’ll need to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours to get the best flavor.
- This lime chicken breast rice pilaf recipe is a great option for a flavorful and nutritious meal, with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat.
- You can customize the recipe to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or green beans.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheated in the microwave for approximately 45 to 60 seconds.
Introduction to Lime Chicken Breast Rice Pilaf
One pot chicken and rice is a tasty and simple meal. Adding a lime marinade chicken recipe makes it even better. You’ll need chicken breast, uncooked rice, and spices to make it.
Using fresh ingredients is key for a great lime chicken rice pilaf. Real lime juice and cilantro add flavor and aroma. A simple lime marinade makes the chicken moist and tender, perfect with fluffy rice.
What Makes Lime Chicken Special?
Lime chicken is a flavorful twist on regular chicken. The lime juice makes the chicken tender and juicy. The citrus flavor of the lime complements the rice, making the meal balanced and delicious.
The Importance of Rice Pilaf in This Dish
Rice pilaf is essential in this recipe, adding flavor and texture. Toasting the rice before adding chicken stock enhances its nutty flavor. This one pot chicken and rice recipe is quick, taking only 10-12 minutes to cook, ideal for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Lime Chicken
To make a tasty and healthy chicken and rice dish, you’ll need some key ingredients. Start with 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. You’ll also need 1 cup of white basmati rice, 2 cups of chicken broth, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
For extra flavor, you’ll need some fresh herbs and spices. Use the juice of 2 limes, 2 cloves of garlic, and 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro. These will make your chicken and rice recipe both healthy and delicious, great for a weeknight dinner.
Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup white basmati rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
With these ingredients, you can whip up a tasty and easy lime chicken recipe. It’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare, ready in under 45 minutes.
Preparing the Lime Chicken Breast
To make the lime chicken breast, you need to marinate the chicken. Use a lime marinade chicken recipe for this. Mix lime juice, olive oil, and spices to make a tasty marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak up the flavors.
After marinating, you can grill or bake the chicken. For a cilantro lime chicken and rice dish, bake it with rice and cilantro. This way, the chicken’s flavors will mix with the rice, making the dish aromatic and delicious.
Here are some tips for cooking the chicken and rice:
- Use a lime marinade chicken recipe to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes.
- Bake the chicken in the oven with some rice and cilantro for a cilantro lime chicken and rice dish.
- Use fresh ingredients, such as lime juice and cilantro, to add flavor to the dish.
By following these tips, you can make a tasty lime marinade chicken recipe with cilantro lime chicken and rice. This dish is great for a quick meal. You can serve it with steamed veggies or a salad.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lime juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Cilantro | 1/4 cup |
| Rice | 1 cup |
Crafting the Perfect Rice Pilaf
The type of rice you choose can really change how your dish tastes and feels. For a one pot chicken and rice recipe, pick a rice that cooks well and soaks up flavors. White, brown, and jasmine rice are all good choices.
To make your rice pilaf taste even better, add herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Sautéed onions, garlic, and carrots can also add a lot of flavor. For a healthier option, use low-sodium chicken broth and a bit of olive oil.
- Use a mix of chicken broth and water to cook the rice.
- Add sautéed veggies like onions, carrots, and peas to the rice.
- Use herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, and paprika for flavor.
- Try different rice types like brown, jasmine, or basmati.
| Rice Type | Cooking Time | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| White Rice | 15-20 minutes | Mild, slightly sweet |
| Brown Rice | 20-25 minutes | Nutty, earthy |
| Jasmine Rice | 15-20 minutes | Floral, buttery |
By following these tips and using the right ingredients, you can make a tasty and healthy chicken and rice dish. It’s perfect for a one pot meal.
Pairing Options to Elevate the Meal
When serving your easy lime chicken recipe, choose the right sides to enhance the meal. A healthy chicken and rice dish pairs well with many options. Try roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
Some popular pairing options include:
- Roasted vegetables, which add a nice texture and flavor contrast to the dish
- Fresh salads, such as mixed greens or spinach, for a lighter and refreshing side
- Garlic bread, which is a classic pairing for chicken and can add a rich and savory flavor to the meal
To add more flavor, serve your easy lime chicken with salsa or guacamole. These creamy and tangy sauces match the bright, citrusy flavors of the chicken. They make the meal complete and delicious.
Consider serving your healthy chicken and rice with herb-infused rice or roasted sweet potato fries. These sides bring a rich flavor and texture. They make the meal more satisfying and enjoyable.
| Side Dish | Prep Time | Cook Time |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Vegetables | 10 minutes | 20-25 minutes |
| Fresh Salad | 5 minutes | 0 minutes |
| Garlic Bread | 5 minutes | 10-12 minutes |
Serving Suggestions for Lime Chicken and Rice
When serving lime chicken breast rice pilaf, how you present it matters a lot. You want your dish to look as good as it tastes. Adding fresh herbs like cilantro can make your dish pop with color and freshness. For a cilantro lime chicken and rice dish, garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
To serve lime chicken and rice well, make your plate look good. Start with a scoop of fluffy jasmine rice. Then, add a piece of juicy lime chicken breast. Don’t forget to add steamed veggies like broccoli or carrots. For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top.
- Serve with warm tortillas or naan bread to soak up the sauce.
- Add diced fresh veggies like bell peppers or onions for color and nutrition.
- Offer sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side to cool down your palate.
- Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese on top for a salty burst of flavor.
By following these tips, you can make a delicious and attractive lime chicken breast rice pilaf dish. It’s perfect for impressing your family and friends. Whether you’re making cilantro lime chicken and rice or something else, have fun and get creative with your presentation.
Nutritional Benefits of Lime Chicken Breast
Lime chicken breast is a great choice for a healthy chicken and rice recipe. It’s not only tasty but also full of nutrients. A serving of cilantro lime chicken and rice has 29g of protein, which is 58% of the daily value for a 2,000 calorie diet. This makes it perfect for those who need a protein-rich meal.
The recipe is also low in fat, with only 6g of fat per serving. This is 9% of the daily value, making it good for those watching their fat intake. It’s also a good source of potassium, with 586mg per serving, which is 17% of the daily value.
Protein-Packed Goodness
The lime chicken breast is high in protein, making it great for increasing protein intake. With 29g of protein per serving, it’s perfect for athletes, bodybuilders, and anyone wanting to build or repair muscle.
Vitamins and Minerals in the Ingredients
The ingredients in the recipe are also full of vitamins and minerals. Lime juice is a good source of vitamin C, with one lime giving up to 35% of the daily value. Garlic, used in the recipe, contains over 100 biologically active compounds, adding to the meal’s health benefits.
The easy lime chicken recipe is also quick and easy to make. It takes only 25 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. It serves 4, making it great for families or those who like to meal prep.
Tips for Meal Prep and Storage
When prepping and storing your one pot chicken and rice, safety and flavor are key. Cool leftovers to room temperature within two hours, then refrigerate or freeze. For reheating, use the oven or microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Planning ahead is important in meal prep. With a lime marinade chicken recipe, marinate the chicken overnight and cook it the next day. This saves time and enhances flavors. When reheating, add fresh herbs or spices for extra taste.
Here are some additional tips for meal prep and storage:
- Use airtight containers to store leftovers and keep them fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Label and date the containers so you know what you have and how long it’s been stored.
- Consider using a “first in, first out” approach to ensure older items are consumed before they expire.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your one pot chicken and rice dish while keeping its flavor and safety. Always prioritize proper food handling and storage to avoid foodborne illness.
| Meal Prep Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Plan Ahead | Marinate chicken overnight and cook the next day |
| Store Safely | Cool leftovers to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze |
| Reheat with Care | Use oven or microwave, and add water or broth to maintain moisture |
Variations on the Lime Chicken Rice Dish
Exploring the easy lime chicken recipe can lead to exciting new dishes. Try adding shrimp or tofu for a unique twist. This adds variety and meets different tastes and diets.
Don’t be afraid to mix in spices or herbs. A bit of cumin or cilantro can boost the flavor. You can also swap rice types like jasmine or basmati for a different taste and texture.
Adding Different Proteins
- Shrimp: Add cooked shrimp to the lime chicken and rice for a seafood-inspired variation.
- Tofu: Marinate and cook tofu with the lime chicken for a vegetarian or vegan option.
- Chicken sausage: Use chicken sausage instead of chicken breast for a spicy and savory twist.
Exploring Flavor Combinations
Here are some ideas for flavor combinations:
- Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra citrus flavor.
- Using different types of peppers, such as bell peppers or jalapenos, to add crunch and heat.
- Experimenting with various spices, such as cumin or coriander, to add depth and warmth to the dish.
By trying these variations and flavor combinations, you can make a unique and tasty twist on the classic lime chicken and rice. Whether you want something spicy, savory, or fresh, there’s a version for you.
| Variation | Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp and Lime Chicken | Shrimp, chicken breast, lime juice, cumin | Citrusy, spicy, savory |
| Tofu and Lime Chicken | Tofu, chicken breast, lime juice, coriander | Fresh, herbal, slightly spicy |
| Chicken Sausage and Lime Chicken | Chicken sausage, chicken breast, lime juice, cumin | Spicy, savory, smoky |
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Customers love the lime chicken breast rice pilaf. They say it’s full of flavor, thanks to the lime and cilantro. One person said, “I was amazed by how easy it was to make and how tasty it turned out.” It’s great for a quick dinner or a special meal.
The dish is also good for you, with 24g of protein and only 15g of fat. The basmati rice adds flavor and nutrition. A customer said, “It’s delicious, healthy, and easy to prepare.” With a 5-star rating from 194 votes, it’s a clear winner.
Some people want to try new things with this recipe. They suggest adding different proteins or trying new flavors. This shows how versatile and creative the dish can be. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or to impress guests. Its unique flavors and healthy ingredients make it a hit.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 362 |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
Positive Experiences with Lime Chicken Plate
People enjoy the lime chicken plate. They like its taste and how simple it is to make. The mix of lime and cilantro is a big hit.
Suggestions from Home Chefs
Some folks have ideas to make the recipe even better. They suggest adding different proteins or trying new flavors. These ideas show the dish’s flexibility and the creativity of home cooks.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Dish
If you’re searching for a quick, tasty, and healthy chicken and rice recipe, try this lime chicken breast rice pilaf. It’s packed with bright citrus flavors, tender chicken, and fluffy rice. This mix of tastes and textures is a real treat. Plus, it’s easy to make, ready in under 1 hour, perfect for a busy weeknight.
The easy lime chicken recipe uses simple, good-for-you ingredients. Chicken breast is full of protein, and the rice pilaf adds complex carbs and fiber. Fresh herbs, spices, and the zest and juice of 2 limes make the dish vibrant and irresistible.
Feel free to get creative with this recipe. Try different proteins, rice types, or veggies. The world of healthy chicken and rice dishes is vast and exciting. So, why not give this lime chicken breast rice pilaf a go and enjoy a delicious meal tonight?