These Easy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls are fresh and zesty! Juicy chicken is marinated with lime and cilantro, then served over rice and topped with sweet peach salsa. Yum!
Honestly, peach salsa is a game-changer! It adds that fruity kick that makes everything taste better. I could eat these bowls every day and never get bored! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but boneless skinless breasts work just as well. If you’re vegetarian, try using firm tofu or chickpeas for protein.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice really brightens the dish. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can be a good substitute. Just adjust to taste since lemons are a bit sharper.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are ideal for salsa. If they’re out of season, feel free to use canned peaches or even mango for a tropical twist!
Rice: I prefer white rice for its fluffiness, but brown rice or cauliflower rice can be great alternatives for a healthier option.
Chili Powder: If you want more spice, swap in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. For a milder flavor, just skip it entirely.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to infusing it with flavor and keeping it juicy. Here’s how to marinate effectively:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix them thoroughly.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated.
- If possible, let them marinate for at least 1 hour; longer is better for deeper flavor!
Cook the chicken in a hot skillet for a nice sear, which locks moisture in. Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent drying out—check for doneness around 4-5 minutes per side!
Easy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls With Fresh Peach Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Salt, to taste
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- Lime wedges, for garnish
- Additional fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Sliced avocado (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. You’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes to maximize flavor, or you can start prepping the peach salsa during this time. Overall, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, lime juice, chopped cilantro, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss until they’re well coated. Let this marinate at room temperature for at least 20 minutes, or pop it in the fridge for up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Peach Salsa:
While your chicken is marinating, grab another bowl and mix together the diced peaches, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if you’re using it), cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir and let it sit so the flavors come together while you cook the chicken!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. If your skillet isn’t non-stick, add a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely brown color. When done, remove from heat and let it rest for a moment.
4. Assemble the Bowls:
Start by dividing the cooked rice into serving bowls. Then, on top of the rice, place the beautifully cooked chicken pieces. Don’t forget to add a generous scoop of your fresh peach salsa on top!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finish it off with a sprinkle of additional cilantro and some lime wedges on the side for extra zing. If you’re feeling fancy, add some sliced avocado to each bowl. Serve immediately and enjoy the wonderful flavors!
Enjoy your fresh and vibrant Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls with the sweet, tangy burst of peach salsa!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Proteins?
Absolutely! While chicken is delicious, you can also use shrimp, tofu, or even grilled veggies for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly; shrimp cooks much faster, and tofu will need a bit more seasoning to capture flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. The salsa can be mixed back in just before serving to keep everything fresh!
What Can I Replace the Peaches With?
If peaches aren’t in season or available, try using mango, nectarines, or even diced pineapples for that sweet fruit kick. Just remember to adjust the seasoning slightly based on the fruit’s sweetness!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the rice and any other accompaniments you use are gluten-free products. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a fun twist that keeps it light!
