Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with fresh, zesty flavor, this Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken nestles into a bed of creamy, tangy rice that’s loaded with bright lime and vibrant cilantro. It’s a one-skillet wonder that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve to guests. Every bite sings with the flavors of lime, garlic, and fresh herbs—making it one of those rare dishes that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light at the same time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about how a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create an unforgettable meal. Each component in this Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe has a purpose—whether it’s adding color, depth, or that irresistible creamy finish.
- Chicken thighs or breasts: Juicy, tender, and perfect for soaking up all the zesty flavors in the skillet.
- Olive oil: A splash for searing the chicken and starting everything off with a little richness.
- Ground cumin: Earthy and warming, it adds a subtle smoky foundation.
- Garlic powder: Brings mellow, savory notes that deepen the flavor without overpowering.
- Onion powder: Lends gentle sweetness and complexity to the spice blend.
- Salt: Essential for making all the flavors pop.
- Black pepper: Just a hint for background warmth and a touch of bite.
- Long grain white rice: The perfect base—fluffy, tender, and ready to soak up all that creamy sauce.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory, layered flavor as it cooks.
- Heavy cream: The secret to a dreamy, luscious texture in every spoonful.
- Fresh lime juice: Adds a bright, tangy kick that lifts the whole dish.
- Lime zest: Brings fragrant citrus notes and a pop of color.
- Chopped fresh cilantro: A burst of freshness and classic herbal flavor that ties it all together.
- Butter: Just a little, for a silky finish and buttery richness in the rice.
How to Make Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
This first step sets the stage for all the flavor to come. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pat your chicken dry and generously coat both sides with this aromatic blend. Don’t be shy—the more evenly you season, the more delicious every bite will be.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken. Let it sizzle for 5 to 6 minutes per side (no peeking!) until it’s golden brown and cooked through. This sear locks in the juices and builds a delicious crust. Once done, set the chicken aside—you’ll bring it back for the grand finale.
Step 3: Sauté the Rice
In the same skillet (don’t clean it—you want all those tasty browned bits), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the rice and stir for 1 to 2 minutes. This quick sauté gives the rice a slightly nutty flavor and keeps the grains separate once cooked.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender and has absorbed all the lovely broth.
Step 5: Make it Creamy and Zesty
Now for the magic! Stir in the heavy cream, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. This transforms the rice into a creamy, vibrant base that’s both rich and refreshing. The kitchen will smell absolutely incredible.
Step 6: Finish with Chicken
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling each piece into the creamy rice. Let everything simmer together, uncovered, for another 3 to 5 minutes. This lets the flavors meld and ensures the chicken is perfectly warmed through. Serve with extra lime wedges and cilantro for that final flourish.
How to Serve Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can get playful. Scatter extra chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh, herbal hit. A few lime wedges on the side invite everyone to add a last squeeze of citrus, and a sprinkle of lime zest adds color and a fragrant aroma just before serving. For a little heat, a few thinly sliced jalapeños are a welcome touch.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe is a full meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a side of black beans or a crisp green salad. For a heartier spread, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a corn and avocado salsa. Each addition complements the bright, creamy flavors without overwhelming the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and rice in individual bowls and let guests top theirs with sour cream, extra herbs, or sliced radishes. If you’re aiming for a family-style presentation, bring the skillet right to the table—there’s something inviting about everyone digging in together. Or, scoop the rice onto a platter, arrange the chicken on top, and finish with a generous shower of cilantro and zest for a vibrant, shareable centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. The flavors will meld even more as it sits, making tomorrow’s lunch extra delicious. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy within three days for the freshest taste and best texture.
Freezing
The Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe freezes surprisingly well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. For best results, freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, pop leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to restore creaminess. Stir gently until warmed through. The microwave also works—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring between each, to keep the chicken juicy and the rice creamy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Both chicken breasts and thighs work beautifully in this Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe. Thighs tend to be a bit juicier, but breasts will stay moist if you don’t overcook them.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative like full-fat coconut milk or an unsweetened plant-based cream. The flavor will be a bit different but still delicious and creamy!
What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
While fresh cilantro is key to the signature flavor, you can use flat-leaf parsley for a milder, herbal touch. Dried cilantro isn’t recommended, as it doesn’t deliver the same freshness.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Prepare the dish as directed, portion into containers, and store in the fridge. The Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe reheats well, keeping its creamy texture and bold flavors.
How can I add more vegetables?
Feel free to stir in vegetables like peas, corn, or baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking the rice. They’ll add color, nutrition, and extra flavor to your Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that just makes people happy—whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special gathering. Give it a try and see how quickly it disappears from your table. I can’t wait for you to taste just how creamy, zesty, and downright comforting it is!
Print
Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice recipe is a flavorful and comforting one-pot meal that combines tender chicken thighs with zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick stovetop dinner, this Mexican-inspired dish balances savory spices and creamy textures, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Rice and Liquids
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
Other Ingredients
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly on both sides of the chicken thighs to ensure full flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Rice: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the white rice and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes to slightly toast the grains and add flavor.
- Simmer the Rice: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until it is tender and the broth is fully absorbed.
- Create the Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro into the cooked rice, mixing well to combine and create a creamy texture.
- Add the Chicken Back: Nestle the cooked chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the creamy rice. Simmer uncovered for an additional 3 to 5 minutes to warm everything through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Plate the creamy cilantro lime chicken and rice, optionally garnishing with extra lime wedges and cilantro for added freshness and zest.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce fat content while maintaining creaminess.
- You can use pre-cooked rice to speed up the recipe; just reduce the amount of chicken broth accordingly to avoid excess moisture.
- This dish pairs beautifully with black beans or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
