Description
Zesty, herby, and packed with flavor, this One Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice is the perfect all-in-one meal. Juicy chicken, fragrant rice, and fresh lime-cilantro goodness come together in a single skillet—easy, comforting, and bold.
Ingredients
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts: 1 lb – Tender and flavorful protein
- Long-Grain Rice (uncooked, rinsed): 1 cup – Absorbs the bold flavors
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – For searing and sautéing
- Onion (finely chopped): ½ cup – Savory aromatic base
- Garlic (minced): 2 cloves – Bold flavor boost
- Chicken Broth: 2 cups – Cooks the rice and adds depth
- Fresh Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons – Bright citrus tang
- Lime Zest: 1 teaspoon – Intensifies lime flavor
- Cilantro (chopped): ½ cup packed – Adds fresh, herby finish
- Cumin: ½ teaspoon – Warm, earthy note
- Paprika (optional): ½ teaspoon – For color and subtle depth
- Salt & Pepper: To taste – Essential for seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Chicken: Add chicken to skillet and sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In the same skillet, sauté onion until softened, then stir in garlic and rice to toast briefly.
- Deglaze & Simmer: Add chicken broth, lime juice, and zest. Scrape up browned bits and stir well.
- Return Chicken: Nestle chicken into rice. Cover and simmer on low for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Finishing Touches: Fluff rice, stir in chopped cilantro, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with extra lime wedges or herbs and serve warm.
Notes
- Toast rice before adding broth for deeper flavor.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving for best texture.
- Swap lime for lemon or add chili flakes for heat.
- Use parsley instead of cilantro if preferred.