If you’re searching for a vibrant and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavors, Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa is the perfect recipe for you! This quick-to-make dish combines zesty cilantro-lime chicken with a sweet and spicy peach salsa, all served over fragrant jasmine rice. Whether you’re meal-prepping, hosting friends, or simply looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, these bowls offer the ideal balance of protein, fruits, and irresistible flavors.
Introduction: Why Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls are a Must-Try
Originating from a fusion of Mexican and Southwestern cuisine, cilantro-lime chicken has become a fan-favorite due to its tangy and aromatic flavor profile. Paired with a unique peach salsa, this dish is a refreshing twist that blends sweet, savory, and spicy elements harmoniously. Ready in just 30 minutes, this Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Serve it for lunch, dinner, or even prepare it ahead for meal planning.
Be sure to check out related recipes like Jalapeno Peach Chicken for more peachy goodness.
Ingredients for Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
Peach Salsa Ingredients:
- 3 medium yellow peaches (pitted, diced)
- 1 sweet red bell pepper (diced)
- ¼ cup red onion (diced)
- 3 green onions (finely chopped)
- ½ bunch cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- ¼ tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
Cilantro-Lime Chicken Ingredients:
- 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts (sliced)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp butter
Rice & Garnish:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Lime slices for garnish
Allergen Tips: If you’re sensitive to onions, consider replacing the red onion with a milder shallot or omitting it altogether.
How to Make Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls – Step-by-Step
Step1: Preparing the Peach Salsa
- Wash the peaches thoroughly. No need to peel them—just chop and dice.
- In a large bowl, combine the peaches, bell pepper, red onion, green onions, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Adjust the seasoning with more salt or lime juice to taste.
Step2: Cooking the Cilantro-Lime Chicken
- Season the sliced chicken breasts with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 4 minutes undisturbed to sear.
- Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Lower the heat and add lime juice and honey. Stir frequently for about 2 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter to create a rich glaze. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Step3: Assembling the Bowls
- Add cooked jasmine rice to each bowl.
- Top with cilantro-lime chicken and a generous scoop of peach salsa.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime slices for a fresh finish.
Helpful Tips for Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls
- Peach Varieties: For the salsa, you can use yellow or white peaches. Nectarines are a great substitute when peaches aren’t in season.
- Add Spice: If you like heat, add a diced jalapeno to the salsa for a kick.
- Honey Substitute: You can swap honey with agave nectar or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cilantro-Lime Chicken
- Use Fresh Citrus: Freshly squeezed lime juice will enhance the flavor far better than bottled versions.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet to achieve a perfect sear.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
Serving Suggestions for Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls
This dish pairs wonderfully with a few simple side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete the meal:
- Grilled Vegetables: Try grilled zucchini or bell peppers.
- Refreshing Beverages: Pair with a cold glass of peach iced tea or sparkling lime water.
Related Recipe: Sausage Balls with Red Lobster Mix for a hearty side dish!
Nutritional Information for Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls
Eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. This dish is packed with nutrients:
- Calories: 417 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Vitamin C: 50% of the daily recommended intake
This nutritional breakdown is per serving, making it a well-balanced meal for any diet.
Storage and Leftovers for Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken and salsa in separate airtight containers. Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or a skillet. The salsa is best served fresh but can be eaten cold straight from the fridge.
Pro Tip:
For a quick lunch, layer the chicken and salsa over a bed of greens instead of rice to create a refreshing salad.
Frequently Asked Questions for Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls
Q1: Can I use frozen peaches for the salsa? Yes! Thaw the peaches completely and drain excess liquid before using.
Q2: What other grains can I serve this with? You can substitute jasmine rice with quinoa, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms for a plant-based version.
Q4: Is this recipe meal-prep friendly? Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Just store the chicken, salsa, and rice separately to keep them fresh.
Conclusion: Time to Enjoy Your Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls!
There you have it—an easy, flavorful meal ready in just 30 minutes! Whether you’re looking for a vibrant dish to share with loved ones or a nutritious option to spice up your weekly meal prep, Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa will satisfy your cravings.
Don’t forget to try out the recipe and let us know your thoughts! If you have any tweaks or favorite ways to serve this dish, share your personal variations with us in the comments below.
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Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa | 30-Min Meal
Description
If you’re searching for a vibrant and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavors, Cilantro-Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa is the perfect recipe for you! This quick-to-make dish combines zesty cilantro-lime chicken with a sweet and spicy peach salsa, all served over fragrant jasmine rice. Whether you’re meal-prepping, hosting friends, or simply looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, these bowls offer the ideal balance of protein, fruits, and irresistible flavors.
Ingredients
Peach Salsa Ingredients:
- 3 medium yellow peaches (pitted, diced)
- 1 sweet red bell pepper (diced)
- ¼ cup red onion (diced)
- 3 green onions (finely chopped)
- ½ bunch cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- ¼ tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
Cilantro-Lime Chicken Ingredients:
- 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts (sliced)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp butter
Rice & Garnish:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Lime slices for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Peach Salsa
- Wash the peaches thoroughly. No need to peel them—just chop and dice.
- In a large bowl, combine the peaches, bell pepper, red onion, green onions, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Adjust the seasoning with more salt or lime juice to taste.
Step 2: Cooking the Cilantro-Lime Chicken
- Season the sliced chicken breasts with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 4 minutes undisturbed to sear.
- Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Lower the heat and add lime juice and honey. Stir frequently for about 2 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter to create a rich glaze. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Step 3: Assembling the Bowls
- Add cooked jasmine rice to each bowl.
- Top with cilantro-lime chicken and a generous scoop of peach salsa.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime slices for a fresh finish.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Peach Varieties: For the salsa, you can use yellow or white peaches. Nectarines are a great substitute when peaches aren’t in season.
- Add Spice: If you like heat, add a diced jalapeno to the salsa for a kick.
- Honey Substitute: You can swap honey with agave nectar or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
