Easy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowl with Chicken

You know that feeling when you take the first bite of something light, zesty, and satisfying? That’s exactly what this Cilantro Lime Rice Bowl with chicken delivers.

It’s packed with flavor, loaded with nutritious ingredients, and so easy to throw together for a quick dinner or meal prep for the week.

With tangy cilantro lime rice, juicy grilled chicken, and all your favorite toppings, this bowl hits the spot every time.

Whether you’re new to rice bowls or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to build the ultimate chicken cilantro lime rice bowl:

For the Cilantro Lime Rice:

• 1 cup long grain white or jasmine rice
• 1 ¾ cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Zest of 1 lime
• Juice of 12 limes
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt to taste

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of ½ lime

Suggested Toppings:

• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Black beans
• Corn (fresh, canned, or roasted)
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
• Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Cilantro lime dressing or chipotle mayo

How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice

1. Rinse the rice: Start by rinsing your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents stickiness.
2. Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water or broth, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1820 minutes until the rice is tender.
3. Add flavor: Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Pro Tip: Add the lime juice after the rice has finished cooking to preserve its bright, fresh flavor.

How to Cook Juicy Chicken for Your Bowl

1. Prep the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness. Rub with olive oil, then season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook chicken for 56 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Finish with lime: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for a citrusy finish.

How to Assemble Your Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowl

Layer your bowl with:

• A generous scoop of cilantro lime rice
• Sliced grilled chicken
• Black beans and corn
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Cherry tomatoes and red onion
• A drizzle of sauce like cilantro lime crema or chipotle mayo
• Extra fresh cilantro for garnish

You can serve it warm or cold, and it’s just as tasty either way.

Customization Ideas

Make this recipe your own with these simple variations:

Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for grilled tofu, tempeh, or extra black beans.
Low-carb: Use cauliflower rice as your base.
Spicy twist: Add hot sauce, fresh jalapeños, or a chipotle crema.
Extra crunch: Toss in shredded romaine, tortilla strips, or pickled onions.
Global flair: Mix it up with Mediterranean toppings like hummus and cucumber, or go Thai-style with a peanut lime dressing.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

These bowls are perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Store rice, chicken, and toppings in separate containers to keep everything fresh.
• Fridge life: Cooked rice and chicken will last 34 days in the fridge.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken and rice for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm rice and chicken in the microwave or stovetop before assembling your bowl.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is best for flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

What’s the best rice for this bowl?

Jasmine rice, long grain white rice, or basmati all work well.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s ideal for meal prepping up to four days in advance.