Name: Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (rinsed); 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 lime (zested and juiced); ½ cup fresh cilantro (chopped, plus extra for garnish); Salt and pepper to taste

This flavorful crockpot cilantro lime chicken and rice is a perfect one-pot meal that is both healthy and satisfying. Tender chicken, seasoned with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, is slow-cooked alongside fluffy rice. It’s easy to make and packed with vibrant flavors, making it a family favorite!

Recipe Tips and Tricks:

Sear the chicken before adding it to the crockpot to lock in moisture and add a rich flavor.
For a more intense cilantro flavor, add extra fresh cilantro right before serving.
Ensure there’s enough liquid in the crockpot to prevent the rice from burning or becoming dry.
If you prefer a spicier version, add a chopped jalapeño or cayenne pepper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Cilantro lime chicken and rice is one of those comforting dishes that combines tangy, fresh flavors with hearty, filling ingredients. The slow cooking process results in incredibly tender chicken, while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the chicken and seasonings. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its zesty, savory flavors. Plus, it’s versatile—pair it with a variety of sides or enjoy it on its own!

Yield: 4 servings

Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice

A zesty, flavorful crockpot cilantro lime chicken and rice dish, combining tender chicken, rice, lime, and cilantro.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (rinsed)
1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 lime (zested and juiced)
½ cup fresh cilantro (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Optionally, sear the chicken in olive oil over medium heat in a pan for 2-3 minutes on each side to lock in the flavor, though this step is optional.
Layer in Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the crockpot. Add the rinsed rice on top of the chicken, followed by the chicken broth, garlic, lime zest, and lime juice. Stir everything together gently to combine.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Check to make sure the rice is fully cooked and the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
Shred Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the chicken to the crockpot, stirring it into the rice mixture. Add chopped cilantro and stir until well combined.
Serve: Serve the cilantro lime chicken and rice topped with additional cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy!

Notes

If you prefer more sauce, feel free to add extra chicken broth during cooking.
For a creamy version, stir in a little sour cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 324Total Fat 8gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 103mgSodium 418mgCarbohydrates 20gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 40g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. Chicken thighs will be juicier but will require a slightly longer cooking time.
Rice: Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice is ideal for this dish, as it cooks well in the crockpot and absorbs flavors nicely.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key to achieving that bright, fresh flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can reduce the amount or skip it altogether.
Lime: Fresh lime juice adds an essential zesty kick. For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lime juice instead of bottled.

Variations and Substitutions:

For a dairy-free version, simply omit any cheese or cream.
Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free or lower-carb alternative.
If you prefer a vegetarian meal, replace the chicken with tofu or a variety of beans like black beans.
Add corn or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.

Storage Options:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: This dish freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.