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Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls Recipe

Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 16 reviews

This Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowl recipe features juicy, marinated chicken thighs cooked to perfection and served with vibrant cilantro lime rice, pinto beans, fresh corn, red onions, and creamy avocado. Perfect for a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with zesty, fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 limes (juice and zest)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ½ bunch cilantro, chopped

For Cooking

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (additional for cooking)

For the Bowl Assembly

  • 4 cups cilantro lime rice (prepared)
  • 1 cup pinto beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)
  • ½ red onion, diced
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 avocados, sliced or halved
  • Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl or Ziploc bag, combine the chicken thighs, olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, salt, garlic powder, sugar, and chopped cilantro. Mix thoroughly so all the chicken pieces are coated evenly. Let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the chicken thighs skin side down and cook for 5 minutes undisturbed. Flip the chicken and cook for another 6 to 7 minutes until fully cooked through and no longer pink inside. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed, adding more oil for the second batch.
  3. Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, layer the cilantro lime rice as the base. Top with the cooked cilantro lime chicken, pinto beans, diced red onion, corn, and avocado slices or halves. Garnish with lime wedges to squeeze over the top before eating.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor, but for deeper flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours in the fridge.
  • Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best vibrant citrus flavor.
  • To keep ingredients fresh, add avocado just before serving to avoid browning.
  • You can substitute pinto beans with black beans if preferred.
  • If desired, add a sprinkle of chili flakes or chopped jalapeño for some heat.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime chicken, chicken bowls, healthy chicken recipe, cilantro lime rice, Mexican chicken bowl, easy dinner recipe

Find it online: https://kitchenbyrita.com/cilantro-lime-chicken-bowls-recipe/