Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: For this recipe, I like using chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts work just as well! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey instead. Tofu or chickpeas can be great plant-based alternatives too.

Lime: Fresh lime adds bright flavor, but if you don’t have it, lemon juice is a good substitute. You might lose a bit of that classic lime taste, but it will still work out well.

Peaches: Fresh peaches give the salsa a wonderful sweetness. If they’re out of season, try using canned peaches (drained) or substitute with mango for a different but equally delicious flavor.

Cilantro: Cilantro adds a fresh kick, but if you’re not a fan, parsley can work as a substitute. It won’t have the same flavor, but it will still bring some green freshness to your dish.

How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?

Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky, but here’s how to make sure it’s juicy and safe to eat:

• Always cut your chicken into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Use a hot skillet but don’t overcrowd it; this helps brown the chicken. Cook in batches if needed.
• Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes off the heat before serving. This keeps it juicy!

These tips and ingredient choices will help you create a delicious meal that you’ll want to make over and over again!

Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowls with Peach Salsa

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Peach Salsa:

• 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati)
• Lime wedges, for garnish
• Additional fresh cilantro for garnish
• Sliced avocado (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep, including marinating the chicken while you prepare the peach salsa, and about 15-20 minutes for cooking everything up. It’s a quick and delightful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:

Start by preparing the rice according to the package instructions. This will take a bit of time, so it’s a good step to do first while you prep other ingredients.

2. Prepare the Peach Salsa:

In a medium bowl, mix together the diced peaches, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if you’re using it), chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss to combine and let the salsa sit for a few minutes so the flavors blend.

3. Make the Chicken Marinade:

In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, lime juice and zest, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 30 minutes if you have the time.

4. Cook the Chicken:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro just before removing from heat.

5. Assemble the Bowls:

Divide the cooked rice into bowls. Top each bowl with the cilantro lime chicken and a hearty scoop of peach salsa. Garnish with lime wedges, additional cilantro, and sliced avocado, if you like.

6. Serve Immediately:

Enjoy your meal right away while it’s warm and fresh! This dish is delicious, colorful, and full of flavor!

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This dish combines juicy, flavorful chicken with a fresh fruit salsa that balances sweet, tangy, and spicy notes—a vibrant and easy-to-make meal perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly; seafood cooks faster, and tofu should be pan-fried until golden.

Can I Make the Peach Salsa in Advance?

Yes! You can prepare the peach salsa up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a gentle stir before serving to recombine the juices!

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors of the salsa will meld even more, making it extra delicious! Reheat the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

What Are Some Substitutions for Peaches?

If peaches are out of season or unavailable, you can use fresh mango or pineapple instead! Alternatively, canned peaches (drained) can provide a similar sweetness and texture.