If you are craving a refreshing, vibrant meal that combines tender, flavorful chicken with creamy avocado and fragrant jasmine rice, you have to try this Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado and Jasmine Rice Recipe. This dish is a delightful symphony of bright citrus, fresh herbs, and satisfying textures that come together in a way that feels both special and effortlessly doable. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this recipe promises to shine as a new favorite on your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because the ingredients list is straightforward and each one plays a crucial role in building the harmonious flavors and textures that make this meal sing.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Perfectly leans protein that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice: Provides the zesty brightness that wakes up the palate.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps tenderize the chicken while grilling.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brings a fresh, herbal note that defines the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a mild pungency that complements the lime and cilantro.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone to balance the bright flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients.
- 1 cup jasmine rice: The fragrant base that soaks up juices and adds softness.
- 2 cups chicken broth or water: Used to cook the rice, chicken broth adds extra depth if you choose it.
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced: Creamy texture that cools and complements the citrusy chicken.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional): A pop of vibrant color and mild acidity.
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced (optional): Adds a slight crunch and sharpness for contrast.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado and Jasmine Rice Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together the lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. This marinade is the heart of flavor, tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with those signature bright and herbaceous notes. Let the chicken soak in this mixture for at least 30 minutes in the fridge, or up to 2 hours if you want the flavors to really develop.
Step 2: Prepare the Jasmine Rice
While the chicken is marinating, rinse your jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear. This little step removes extra starch and keeps the rice from getting gummy. Then, simmer the rice in your chosen liquid—in chicken broth for added flavor or water for simplicity—until tender and fluffy. Allowing it to rest covered off the heat ensures each grain perfectly absorbs the moisture.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Heat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side. You want those beautiful grill marks and to be sure the internal temperature hits 165°F for safe, juicy perfection. Resting the chicken after grilling is a must—it allows the juices to redistribute so every bite is moist and tender.
Step 4: Assemble Your Dish
Fluff up your jasmine rice and spread it evenly across serving plates. Layer on the grilled chicken slices, then fan on creamy avocado slices and scatter halved cherry tomatoes and diced red onion if you’re using them. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to make the flavors pop and serve immediately.
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado and Jasmine Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this dish with a bit of extra chopped cilantro really elevates the herbal brightness. A few lime wedges on the side invite everyone to add an extra splash of fresh citrus, enhancing the dish’s lively character.
Side Dishes
This recipe holds its own as a complete meal, but if you want to expand, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables works wonderfully. The freshness of raw greens balances the warm, grilled flavors.
Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado and Jasmine Rice Recipe Presentation Tips
For a stunning presentation, serve this colorful dish in individual bowls layering the rice first and then arranged chicken, avocado, and toppings on top. Using vibrant bowls that contrast with the greens, reds, and creamy white rice will make the meal look as joyful as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about 3 to 4 days, making for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and rice separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw them gently in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the textures intact.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of water or chicken broth when reheating the rice helps revive its fluffy texture. Chicken is best warmed until just heated through to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice?
Absolutely! While jasmine rice is recommended for its fragrance and texture, basmati rice works beautifully as an alternative if you prefer.
Is this recipe suitable for a plant-based diet?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a delicious plant-based version without losing the fresh flavors.
How long can the chicken marinate?
The chicken can marinate anywhere from 30 minutes up to 2 hours. Longer marinating increases flavor intensity but be careful not to exceed 2 hours to keep the chicken tender.
Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the marinade and rice in advance. Marinate the chicken shortly before grilling for maximum freshness, or grill it ahead and reheat gently when ready to serve.
What can I do if I don’t have a grill pan or outdoor grill?
Cooking the chicken in a cast-iron skillet or regular pan works well too—just be sure to get a nice sear on both sides for flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado and Jasmine Rice Recipe a chance to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that feels special yet comes together simply, with each bite bursting with balanced, fresh flavors that warm the heart and satisfy the appetite. Happy cooking!
Print
Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado and Jasmine Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: International
Description
This Cilantro Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice recipe features tender grilled chicken marinated in a zesty lime and cilantro blend, served alongside fluffy jasmine rice and creamy avocado. Fresh, vibrant, and easy to prepare, this dish combines bright citrus flavors with savory spices for a deliciously balanced meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
For Serving
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over them ensuring they are fully coated, then seal or cover. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Rinse the jasmine rice: While the chicken marinates, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the runoff is clear to remove excess starch, helping the rice cook up light and fluffy.
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes to steam and finish cooking.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and nice grill marks appear. This ensures the chicken is safely cooked and juicy.
- Rest and slice the chicken: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it moist, then slice it for serving.
- Assemble the dish: Fluff the jasmine rice with a fork and divide it onto plates. Top each serving with sliced grilled chicken, avocado slices, and optional cherry tomatoes and red onion. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- For a plant-based option, substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
- If jasmine rice is unavailable, basmati rice makes a great alternative.
- Marinate the chicken up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor, but avoid longer to prevent citrus from breaking down the meat excessively.
- Ensure the grill is hot before cooking the chicken to get perfect grill marks and seal in juices.
- Letting the rice rest after cooking improves texture and fluffiness.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *