These bright and tasty Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls are sure to please! Juicy chicken is seasoned with zesty lime and cilantro, served over rice, and topped with fresh peach salsa.
I love how colorful these bowls are! Plus, the peach salsa adds a sweet twist that makes each bite exciting. Perfect for lunch or dinner—you can’t go wrong! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor. If you’d prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work just as well. For a vegetarian version, try using firm tofu or chickpeas instead!
Rice: White rice is standard here, but any grain, like brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice, can work. They bring different textures and flavors, so feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches add sweetness, but if they’re out of season, try substitution with mango or pineapple. Both options give a delicious tropical twist to your salsa!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is crucial for that burst of flavor. However, if you’re not a fan of cilantro, consider using parsley or mint as alternatives for a different but still fresh taste.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking the chicken right is key to this dish. Don’t rush it! Here’s how to ensure it comes out juicy and flavorful:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 10-15 minutes to get maximum flavor from the spices and lime juice.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear. This will help lock in moisture.
- Cook the chicken until it’s browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C).
These steps help create perfectly cooked chicken that pairs beautifully with the fresh peach salsa. Enjoy your meal! 🌟
Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati work well)
For the Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Garnish:
- Lime wedges
- Additional chopped cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This whole recipe takes about 30 minutes, including 10-15 minutes of marinating time for the chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches, red bell pepper, diced red onion, jalapeño (if you want some heat), and chopped cilantro. Squeeze in the lime juice and sprinkle with salt to taste. Gently mix all the ingredients together and set aside. Letting the salsa sit for a bit helps the flavors blend nicely!
2. Cook the Rice:
While you make the salsa, cook the rice according to package instructions. Once done, keep it warm while you prepare the chicken.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and the juice of 1 lime. Make sure every piece is well coated. If you have a little extra time, let the chicken marinate for about 10-15 minutes to enhance its flavor.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Check that it’s no longer pink inside!
5. Add Cilantro:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, take the skillet off the heat. Gently stir in the chopped cilantro, giving the chicken a fresh flavor boost.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
Grab four bowls and divide the cooked rice evenly among them. Top each bowl with the cilantro lime chicken and a generous scoop of the delicious peach salsa.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish each bowl with lime wedges on the side and sprinkle additional chopped cilantro on top if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy every vibrant bite!
Bon appétit! Your flavorful Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa are ready to delight your taste buds! 🍽️✨
FAQ for Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking! Thawing in the fridge overnight is best, but you can also place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Pat it dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like heat, add more jalapeño or include some chopped serrano peppers in the peach salsa. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the marinade or use a spicier chili powder for the chicken.
Can I Make the Peach Salsa in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach salsa a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld together. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh! If making in advance, add the lime juice just before serving to keep the peaches from browning.
What Should I Serve with These Bowls?
These bowls are already a complete meal, but you can serve them with tortilla chips for a crunchy side or a simple green salad for extra freshness. They also pair wonderfully with a cold, refreshing drink like iced tea or a fruit-infused water.
