This delightful cilantro lime chicken bowl is packed with flavor and freshness! The chicken is marinated in zesty lime and cilantro, coming out tender and juicy every time.
And don’t forget the peach salsa! It’s a sweet and tangy treat that makes this bowl even better. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra salsa—it’s that good! 🌶️🍑
I love preparing this dish on busy weeknights because it’s quick and easy. You can add your favorite toppings too, like avocado or cheese, to make it even yummier!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, grilled shrimp or tofu can make great substitutes!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of flavor. If you’re not a fan of its taste, parsley is a nice alternative that will still add a fresh element.
Peaches: Opt for ripe, sweet peaches—but if they’re out of season, try using mango or pineapple for a similar sweet taste. Canned peaches can work too, but drain them well!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is ideal, but bottled juice can work in a pinch. Just be cautious with the quantity, as it can be more concentrated.
Rice: While white rice is classic, feel free to use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option!
How Can I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken just right can be a challenge! Following these steps will help:
- After marinating, let the chicken come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken, as this helps to sear the meat beautifully. A non-stick pan also works nicely.
- Cook in a single layer without crowding the pan. This allows for even cooking.
- Check the chicken at around 5 minutes—once it’s golden brown on the bottom, flip it to cook the other side.
Remember, cut through a piece to check that it’s no longer pink inside; perfectly cooked chicken should be juicy and tender! Keep an eye on it, and you’ll do great!
Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
Additional Components:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or your choice of grain)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Extra chopped cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 15-60 minutes for marinating the chicken. The cooking process will take another 10-15 minutes, making the total time around 40-90 minutes based on your marinating preferences. You’ll love how quick and simple this bowl comes together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add in the chicken pieces, stirring well to ensure they are coated. Cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes—if you have time, letting it sit for 30-60 minutes will enhance the flavor even more!
2. Prepare the Peach Salsa:
In a separate bowl, combine the diced peaches, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a sprinkle of salt. Toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly mixed. Set it in the refrigerator to chill while you cook the chicken; this will help the flavors meld together perfectly!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Allow the chicken to sear and cook until browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking!
4. Assemble the Bowls:
Once the chicken is ready, take your cooked rice and divide it into serving bowls. On top of the rice, place the cooked cilantro lime chicken. Spoon over generous helpings of the peach salsa, and don’t forget to add some lovely sliced avocado to the side!
5. Garnish and Serve:
For the finishing touch, sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro on top of your bowls. Serve your vibrant and delicious cilantro lime chicken bowls with peach salsa right away. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, fish, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially if using seafood, which generally cooks faster.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, leave out the jalapeño in the peach salsa or reduce the chili powder in the chicken marinade. For more heat, consider adding extra jalapeños or even some cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and prepare the peach salsa a few hours ahead of time. Just keep the salsa in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. Fresh salsa can be enjoyed cold right from the fridge!
