Introduction
If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than this Zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado and Jasmine Rice. The combination of fresh lime juice, aromatic cilantro, and tender chicken creates a vibrant and refreshing meal that will transport your taste buds to sunny shores. Paired with creamy avocado and fluffy jasmine rice, this dish is not only delicious but incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- Lime wedges, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. The aroma will be tantalizing!
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
- While the chicken is soaking up all that delicious goodness, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear, which helps to keep the rice light and fluffy. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth or water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill or cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, until it’s cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps it retain its juiciness.
- Fluff the cooked jasmine rice with a fork and divide it among dinner plates. Top each portion with slices of the grilled chicken and diced avocado. Don’t forget to serve lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of fresh flavor!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. If you’d like to prepare this meal ahead of time, the marinated chicken can sit in the refrigerator longer, making it perfect for meal prep! Additionally, feel free to swap jasmine rice for quinoa or brown rice for a different twist.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily employs grilling or pan-searing techniques for the chicken, ensuring a beautifully charred exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. Marinating the chicken not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. Cooking the rice to perfection involves the absorption method, making it a foolproof choice for fluffy grains.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes! Just adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What should I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or grilled vegetables. For a more filling meal, you could serve it with black beans or corn.
Conclusion
This Zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado and Jasmine Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience of fresh flavors and vibrant colors that brings joy to the table. Perfect for any occasion, it’s quick to prepare and sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy every last bite and the smiles it brings!