These colorful cilantro lime chicken bowls are a fun and tasty meal! Juicy chicken is flavored with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, making every bite refreshing.
And let’s not forget the peach salsa—sweet, tangy, and the perfect topping! I could eat this combo every day and still go back for more. Who’s with me on that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor. If you don’t have thighs, you can use chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out easily.
Lime Juice & Zest: Fresh lime juice adds a bright flavor. If you don’t have limes, try using lemon juice instead. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the flavor profile, but it’ll still taste refreshing!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that signature taste. If you’re not a fan, try parsley for a milder flavor, but the salsa will lose some of its authenticity. Another option is to just skip it entirely!
Peaches: Fresh peaches are ideal for the salsa. If they’re out of season, canned or frozen peaches can work in a pinch. Just drain and thaw them before using.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken perfectly is all about managing the heat and timing. First, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for that nice sear. Here’s how you can do it:
- Use medium-high heat when cooking. This helps to caramelize the chicken quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is safe to eat, juicy, and full of flavor.
Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before assembling your bowls, which helps keep it tender!
Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1/2 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or your preferred rice variety)
- Lime wedges (optional)
- Additional cilantro for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 10 minutes of cooking time. You’ll need a total of around 25-30 minutes to get everything ready. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a satisfying meal!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt to taste and stir gently to combine. Allow the salsa to chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the chicken, which will help the flavors blend beautifully.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice and zest, chopped cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, tossing to coat them evenly with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or if you have more time, let it sit for up to an hour in the fridge for even better flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety!
4. Assemble the Bowls:
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to assemble! Divide the cooked rice evenly amongst serving bowls. Top each bowl generously with the cooked chicken, followed by a heaping spoonful of peach salsa on top.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Add some extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges for an extra pop of freshness, if you’d like. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors in your cilantro lime chicken bowls!
This recipe beautifully combines tangy and sweet flavors, making it a perfect dish for a quick, healthy meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQs for Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used as a substitution. Just be cautious while cooking since they can dry out faster than thighs. Aim to cook them until they reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding more jalapeño to the peach salsa or incorporating some diced serrano peppers into the chicken marinade. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the finished dish!
Can I Prepare the Peach Salsa in Advance?
Yes! The peach salsa can be made a few hours ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to reincorporate any juices that may settle at the bottom.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the chicken and salsa separate until ready to eat. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet or in the microwave, and serve over fresh rice.
