Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Creamy Cilantro
Introduction
The Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Creamy Cilantro is a simple yet satisfying meal. It combines juicy grilled chicken with fluffy rice and a refreshing drizzle of creamy cilantro dressing. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed by everyone in the family!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy and easy to prepare. It’s full of flavors and colors, making it visually appealing. The grilled chicken adds protein, while the rice provides a comforting base. Plus, it’s a great way to use fresh herbs like cilantro, which can elevate the taste of any dish.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Creamy Cilantro
Making this grilled chicken rice bowl is simple and quick! Just follow the steps below and enjoy this tasty meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Creamy dressing (optional)
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill over medium heat. Grill the chicken until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes, then slice.
- Serve the grilled chicken over a bed of cooked rice, garnished with fresh cilantro. Drizzle creamy dressing over the top if desired.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl
This dish is best served warm. Place a generous amount of cooked rice in a bowl, top it with sliced grilled chicken, and add fresh cilantro for a pop of color. If you like, you can drizzle some creamy dressing over the top for extra flavor.
How to Store Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The grilled chicken can be kept for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. You may want to add a bit of water to the rice when reheating to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor.
- You can use a grill pan if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
- Feel free to add other toppings like avocado, corn, or black beans for additional texture and taste.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Variation
You can easily customize this rice bowl by using different proteins such as shrimp or tofu. Additionally, you can swap the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken completely before marinating it for even flavor distribution.
2. What if I don’t like cilantro?
If cilantro isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with parsley or skip the garnish completely.
3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great alternative and adds extra fiber to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Creamy Cilantro
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A satisfying meal featuring juicy grilled chicken over fluffy rice with a refreshing creamy cilantro drizzle.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Creamy dressing (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill over medium heat. Grill the chicken until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes, then slice.
- Serve the grilled chicken over a bed of cooked rice, garnished with fresh cilantro. Drizzle creamy dressing over the top if desired.
Notes
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor. Customize with additional toppings like avocado, corn, or black beans.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken, rice bowl, grilled chicken, cilantro, healthy meal