These easy cilantro lime chicken bowls are fresh and zesty! Juicy chicken, flavorful rice, and a sweet peach salsa make every bite a tasty treat. Perfect for a quick dinner!
I love how bright and colorful this dish looks on my table. Plus, who can resist the sweet burst of peach? It’s all about the fun flavors, and I could eat it every week! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great because they’re juicy and full of flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, opt for chicken breasts. If you’re vegetarian, try using firm tofu or chickpeas instead!
Rice: I like using jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma. You can easily swap it for brown rice or quinoa if you prefer a whole grain option. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the rice or grain you choose.
Peach Salsa: Fresh peaches are the star of this salsa! If they’re out of season, mango or pineapple make tasty alternatives. For a milder salsa, skip the jalapeño, or if you love spice, try adding diced serrano peppers!
Cilantro: This herb really brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a good substitute, though the flavor will be a bit different.
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken to perfection is super important for this dish! Make sure to use a medium-high heat when cooking to achieve a nice sear. Here’s how to get it right:
- Cut chicken into even pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t crowd the skillet—cook in batches if needed to allow chicken to brown instead of steam.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (75°C).
Rest the chicken for a couple of minutes before adding lime juice and cilantro for juiciness! This helps keep the flavors locked in.
Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup white rice or jasmine rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth (for cooking rice)
For the Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Additional cilantro leaves
- Chopped lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, and it’s ready to serve! You’ll spend some time cooking the rice and chicken while prepping the delicious peach salsa at the same time. Fast and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water. Bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Once boiling, add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. After cooking, fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Peach Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix it well and then chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of the dish. This helps all those flavors blend nicely!
3. Season the Chicken:
Take a bowl and toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, making sure to turn them occasionally, until they’re fully cooked and golden brown on the outside.
5. Add Lime and Cilantro:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Pour in the lime juice and add the chopped cilantro, stirring it into the chicken for a burst of fresh flavor.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
For each serving, layer a generous scoop of cooked rice in a bowl, then top it with the flavorful cilantro lime chicken, a hearty scoop of peach salsa, and add avocado slices on the side.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by sprinkling some additional chopped cilantro over the bowls and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Enjoy your fresh, flavorful Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa and Rice!
FAQ for Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave it in the fridge overnight or use the quick thaw method by placing it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear!
How Do I Store Leftover Bowls?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the peach salsa fresh, store it separately from the chicken and rice. You can reheat the chicken and rice on the stove or microwave, but enjoy the salsa cold!
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Yes! The peach salsa can be made up to 1 day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a gentle stir before serving!
What Can I Substitute for Peaches in the Salsa?
If peaches aren’t in season, mangoes or pineapple chunks are great alternatives that will add a similar sweetness. You could also try using nectarines for a slightly different flavor while still keeping the dish vibrant!
