This tasty dish features juicy chicken flavored with zesty lime and fresh cilantro. The sweet peach salsa adds a fun twist, making every bite exciting!
I love how simple it is to throw together. Just cook the chicken, mix up the salsa, and you’ve got a colorful bowl that’s perfect for any night, or even lunch! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken is great for ease and tenderness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute chicken with firm tofu or shrimp for a quick-cooking protein.
Limes: Fresh lime juice is essential for a bright flavor. If you don’t have limes, you can use lemon juice, though the taste will be slightly different.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of freshness. If you’re not a fan or have allergy issues, parsley is a good substitute for a similar color without the strong flavor.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are delicious, but feel free to swap with mango for a tropical vibe, or even canned peaches if fresh ones aren’t available. Just rinse off any syrup.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right is key to keeping it juicy! Here’s how to ensure your chicken is perfectly done:
- Cut the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. This helps everything cook at the same rate.
- When marinating, let the chicken soak up those flavors for at least 10 minutes. Longer is better, up to an hour, if you have time!
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken; this gives a nice sear which locks in juices. Cook on medium-high heat.
- Keep the chicken pieces spaced out in the skillet; overcrowding will steam them instead of browning them.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
These tips should help you achieve perfectly tasty chicken every time! Enjoy your meal prep! 🥳
Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cilantro Lime Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and 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
- 1-2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati recommended)
- Lime wedges, for garnish
- Additional cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of approximately 30 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cilantro Lime Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Once mixed, add in the chicken pieces and toss them well to coat evenly. For the best flavor, let them marinate for at least 10 minutes; if you’re up for it, an hour in the refrigerator is even better!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. After it’s hot, add the marinated chicken pieces and cook them for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove it from heat and set it aside.
3. Make the Peach Salsa:
In a separate bowl, combine the diced peaches, red bell pepper, red onion, chopped cilantro, jalapeño (if you’re using it), lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Gently stir them together so the flavors can meld while you get everything else ready!
4. Cook the Rice:
Prepare your chosen rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s cooked, fluff it with a fork to get it nice and airy.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Divide the cooked rice between bowls, then top it with the cilantro lime chicken. Spoon a generous amount of the fresh peach salsa on top. For a fun touch, add lime wedges and sprinkle more fresh cilantro over the bowls.
6. Serve immediately:
Enjoy your bowls while they’re fresh! You can squeeze more lime juice over the top for an extra zesty kick if you’d like!
Enjoy your colorful, fresh, and flavorful cilantro lime chicken bowls paired with a sweet and tangy peach salsa!
FAQ: Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use firm tofu or shrimp as a great alternative. Just remember that shrimp cooks much faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly—about 2-3 minutes should be enough!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’d like some extra heat, try adding more jalapeño to the peach salsa or using a spicy chili powder. You could also mix in some red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken for an added kick!
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the peach salsa up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh! Just give it a gentle stir before serving.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave, and enjoy with fresh rice or salad!
