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Fresh Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowl Recipe Easy Healthy Meal with Vibrant Veggies

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A quick and easy chicken bowl bursting with fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and vibrant veggies, perfect for healthy weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1–2 limes)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for cooking)
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Fresh lime wedges, for serving
  • Optional toppings: crumbled cotija or feta cheese, fresh jalapeño slices, sour cream or Greek yogurt dollop, extra chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the chicken breasts or thighs and toss to coat well. Cover and let it marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
  2. Cook brown rice or quinoa according to package instructions, about 20 minutes. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
  3. Chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Slice avocado just before serving.
  4. Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Place marinated chicken in the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through and browned, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Remove chicken from pan and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  6. Assemble the bowl starting with rice or quinoa, then layer veggies, sliced chicken, avocado, and optional toppings. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and sprinkle of extra cilantro.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 15 minutes for best flavor. Rest chicken before slicing to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Store avocado slices with lime juice to prevent browning. Can substitute protein or grains for dietary preferences.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime chicken, healthy chicken bowl, easy chicken recipe, vibrant veggies, quick dinner, meal prep, gluten-free, dairy-free option

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/fresh-cilantro-lime-chicken-bowl-recipe-easy-healthy-meal-with-vibrant-veggies/