This bright and zesty cilantro lime chicken bowl is a winner! Tender chicken meets fresh flavors of lime and cilantro, all topped with delicious peach salsa. Yum!
I love how colorful this dish is—it’s like a party in a bowl! You can whip it up for lunch or dinner, and trust me, everyone will come back for seconds! 🍑🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless thighs for juiciness, but breasts can work too if you prefer a leaner option. You can also use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, try parsley instead. Just note, it will change the flavor profile a bit.
Peaches: Ripe peaches add a wonderful sweetness. If they’re out of season, mango or diced pineapple can be great substitutes for the salsa!
Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice is ideal, but quinoa or cauliflower rice can be nice gluten-free alternatives that keep the bowl light.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Flavorful and Tender?
The marinade is crucial. To ensure your chicken is tender and bursting with flavors, follow these tips:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, but longer (up to 1 hour) is better for maximum flavor.
- Avoid high heat when cooking; medium-high allows the chicken to cook without burning.
- Stir occasionally while cooking to promote even browning and prevent sticking.
Also, make sure the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature), but be careful not to overcook it or it may dry out. Enjoy your delicious bowls!
Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati works well)
For the Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño or mild green chili, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
Garnishes:
- Lime wedges
- Extra chopped cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total of around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the chicken pieces with olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Toss it all together so the chicken is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. If you have time, place it in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour for even more flavor!
2. Make the Peach Salsa:
While the chicken is soaking up all those tasty flavors, prepare your peach salsa. In another bowl, combine the diced peaches, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if you’re feeling adventurous), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a sprinkle of salt. Give it a stir and set it aside in the fridge to let the flavors meld together.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the marinated chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked all the way through and has a lovely golden brown color. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety!
4. Prepare the Rice:
If you haven’t cooked your rice yet, do so now according to the package instructions. Once it’s fluffy, keep it warm while you finish up the rest of the dish.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
Now for the fun part! Divide the cooked rice among your serving bowls. Top each bowl with the delicious cilantro lime chicken and a generous scoop of that refreshing peach salsa. Yum!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off your bowls with some fresh lime wedges and extra cilantro on top. Serve right away, and savor every bite of this refreshing, flavorful meal!
This dish beautifully combines the savory, tangy chicken with the sweet and slightly spicy peach salsa, all enhanced by the bright notes of lime and fresh cilantro. It’s an easy, delightful option for dinner any night of the week!
FAQ for Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator beforehand. You can also quick-thaw in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, you can follow the marination steps as normal!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Peaches?
No problem! If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can substitute them with ripe mango, diced pineapple, or even canned peaches (just drain them well). Each option will still provide a delicious sweetness to the salsa!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Avoid reheating the salsa to keep it fresh and vibrant!
Can I Meal Prep This Dish?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the peach salsa a day in advance. Just keep everything stored separately in the fridge and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat for a quick and tasty meal!
