This colorful chicken bowl is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds! Juicy cilantro-lime chicken sits on a bed of rice, topped with refreshing peach salsa.
Trust me, that peach salsa is the life of the party! I can never resist adding extra when I make this. It’s perfect for sunny days or when you need a little brightness in your meal! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay tender and juicy. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, go ahead! For a vegetarian twist, use firm tofu or chickpeas as a protein substitute.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the entire dish! If limes aren’t available, lemon juice works as a good alternative, though it has a slightly different flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of flavor, but if you’re not a fan, try substituting with parsley or mint for a different taste.
Peaches: Ripe peaches are essential for the salsa’s sweetness. If they aren’t in season, try mango or nectarines for a similar texture and flavor profile.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right can be a bit tricky! Here’s how to ensure your chicken comes out juicy and flavorful:
- Marinate for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors soak in. If you have time, let it sit for up to an hour.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken to get that nice sear and prevent sticking.
- Cook the chicken over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Look for a nice golden-brown color.
- Check for doneness by cutting a piece to ensure it’s no longer pink in the center. An internal temperature of 165°F is ideal.
With these tips, your cilantro-lime chicken will be a hit every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bowls:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1-2 limes, sliced, for garnish
For the Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 10-15 minutes for cooking. So, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Salsa:
Start by making the peach salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if you want some heat), cilantro, and lime juice. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything and let it sit for a few minutes to let the flavors blend together.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, pepper, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro. This mix will flavor the chicken beautifully! Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes, or even up to an hour if you can wait.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook them for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to be fully cooked and have a nice golden-brown color.
4. Assemble Bowls:
Now, it’s time to put it all together! Spoon the cooked white rice into serving bowls. Top each bowl with a generous amount of the cooked chicken and then add a big spoonful of the peach salsa on top. So colorful and delicious!
5. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish your bowls with extra fresh cilantro and lime slices for a lovely touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your mouth-watering cilantro-lime chicken bowls with peach salsa!
Enjoy this fresh and flavorful meal that’s sure to please your taste buds!
FAQ for Easy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you thaw the chicken completely before marinating. The best way to thaw is overnight in the refrigerator, or you can use the quick method of submerging it in cold water while still in a sealed bag.
Can I Prepare the Peach Salsa Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the peach salsa up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Just give it a little stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.
What Should I Do with Leftover Chicken Bowls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of lime juice to brighten the flavors.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, omit the jalapeño from the salsa and use less chili powder in the chicken marinade. For more heat, feel free to add extra chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce!
