Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp chili flakes — optional
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Cilantro Rice
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice
- 2¼ cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Avocado
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Pinch of salt
- Extra cilantro for garnish
- Lime slices for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Mix olive oil, garlic, lime juice, lime zest, paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, chili flakes, and cilantro. Coat the chicken and let it sit for 15–30 minutes.
- Cook the rice: Rinse rice. Add rice, water/broth, olive oil or butter, and salt to a saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15–18 minutes. Rest covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in lime juice and cilantro.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until browned and cooked through.
- Check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare avocado: Slice avocado and gently toss with lime juice and a small pinch of salt.
- Assemble: Place a mound of cilantro-lime rice on each plate. Layer sliced avocado on top, then add the grilled chicken.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime slices. Spoon some of the pan juices around the rice.
Nut & Allergen Info
- Nuts: No nuts required.
- Dairy: None required.
- Eggs: None.
- Gluten: Naturally gluten-free if all packaged ingredients are verified gluten-free.
- Common allergens: None of the major allergens are required in this recipe.
Approximate Nutrition
Per serving:
- Calories: 550–650 kcal
- Protein: 40–50 g
- Carbohydrates: 50–60 g
- Fat: 20–25 g
- Fiber: 7–9 g
Nutrition varies with chicken size, avocado size, and amount of oil.
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes. Boneless chicken thighs work especially well and stay juicy.
Q: Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but adjust the cooking liquid and cooking time according to the rice package.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
Yes. Add chili flakes or a little cayenne pepper.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead?
Yes. Store the chicken and rice separately in the refrigerator. Add fresh avocado just before serving.
Q: Why add lime to the avocado?
It adds flavor and helps slow browning.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
Yes—corn, cucumber, tomatoes, or sautéed peppers would work well.