Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Lime Bowl
This Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowl is a fresh, balanced, and protein-packed meal bursting with flavor. Juicy grilled chicken is marinated in a cilantro-lime-garlic blend and served over fluffy rice with roasted or fresh veggies, avocado, and a drizzle of creamy lime sauce.
⏱️ Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
Zest of ½ lime
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowl Base
1 ½ cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (or quinoa)
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp chopped cilantro
Pinch of salt
For the Toppings
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or canned)
½ avocado, sliced
½ red onion, finely sliced
½ cup black beans (optional)
Lime wedges, for garnish
For the Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce
½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp chopped cilantro
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Water or milk, to thin if needed
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1. In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, zest, garlic, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken and coat well.
3. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours in the fridge).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
1. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
3. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice.
Step 3: Prepare the Bowl Base
1. Mix cooked rice with lime juice, cilantro, and salt.
2. Fluff with a fork.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
1. Whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add a little water to thin if needed to drizzle consistency.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
1. In each bowl, add a scoop of cilantro-lime rice.
2. Top with grilled chicken, tomatoes, corn, onions, beans, and avocado.
3. Drizzle with the creamy cilantro lime sauce.
4. Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro.
Notes & Tips
Healthier option: Use brown rice or quinoa.
Add crunch: Sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed tortilla chips.
Meal prep: Store chicken and rice separately; assemble just before serving.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the chicken marinade.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes — just warm it up and toss it in the cilantro-lime sauce before serving.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu, halloumi, or chickpeas.
Q: Can I use cauliflower rice?
Yes — it works perfectly for a low-carb version.
️ Nutrition information
Calories: ~430 kcal
Protein: 36g
Carbs: 28g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 4g