One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice
The One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice has become one of my go-to recipes for a satisfying weeknight meal. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its vibrant flavors but also in how effortlessly it comes together. I still remember the first time I made it—my kitchen filled with the aromatic scent of spices mingling with the lime juice, instantly transporting me to a sunny day. As I sat down to enjoy the meal, I realized this wasn’t just food; it was a celebration of simple ingredients coming together harmoniously.
One of the things I love most about the One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice is how it brings the family together. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend dinner, this dish never disappoints. The tender, juicy pieces of chicken paired with the perfectly cooked rice create a comforting and fulfilling experience. Plus, you can easily customize it to suit your family’s preferences, making it a versatile dish that everyone will enjoy.
Whenever I prepare this meal, I feel a sense of joy knowing that I’m creating something nourishing and delicious. It’s an opportunity for me to gather the family, share stories, and enjoy quality time together. The bright notes of lime and the kick from the chili powder elevate the flavors, ensuring that each bite is packed with excitement. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again!
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
5 mins
30 mins
Medium
450 kcal
30 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
15 g
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Skillet, Chef’s Knife
Why Try This One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice
There are so many reasons why the One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice stands out as a fantastic meal choice. Here are a few of my favorites:
One Pan Wonder
This dish truly shines in its simplicity. The idea of preparing everything in just one pan means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. You can sauté, simmer, and serve all from the same skillet, making it an ideal cooking method for busy nights.
Flavor Explosion
The combination of chili powder, lime juice, and spices creates a flavor explosion that tantalizes your taste buds. Each bite offers a perfect balance of tang, heat, and savory goodness that keeps you coming back for more.
Perfectly Cooked Rice
No more worrying about undercooked or mushy rice! The One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice ensures that the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the chicken and spices, resulting in fluffy, perfectly cooked grains that complement the dish perfectly.
Healthy and Nourishing
This recipe is packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the rice, making it a nutritious option that satisfies hunger without weighing you down. It’s a meal that provides energy and nutrition for the whole family.
Customizable
One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, swap in different grains, or adjust the spices according to your taste. The One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice can be tailored to suit your preferences, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys it.
Quick and Easy
With a total cook time of about 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. You can have a delicious home-cooked meal on the table in no time, making it a fantastic choice for families with hectic schedules.
What You’ll Need for One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice
When it comes to the One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice, the ingredients are straightforward yet impactful. The key players in this dish are the chicken, rice, and a blend of spices that bring warmth and flavor. Together, they create a comforting meal that feels both satisfying and refreshing.
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs or 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness: These provide a juicy, tender base for the dish.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: This helps in browning the chicken and adds richness to the dish.
- 3 teaspoons chili powder: The star of the show, bringing heat and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives an aromatic base that complements the other spices.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory flavor profile.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: For an extra kick, adjust to your heat preference.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle bite.
- Juice of 1 lime plus additional lime wedges for serving: Provides brightness and acidity to balance the flavors.
- 1 cup uncooked white rice: The heart of the dish that absorbs flavors and pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- 2 ¼ cups chicken broth: Infuses the rice with rich flavor while keeping it moist.
- Chopped cilantro for garnish: Adds a fresh finish to the dish.
The Method for One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice
Cooking the One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice is a delightful experience. You’ll find it simple yet rewarding as you see the dish come together beautifully. Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to a delicious meal!
- In a small bowl, combine 3 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Stir to combine and season the chicken with half of this seasoning mixture, setting the remaining seasoning aside for later.
- Add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to heat up, shimmering slightly, which indicates it’s ready for cooking.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 5 to 8 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This will help retain its juices while you prepare the rice.
- Returning to the same skillet, add 1 cup uncooked white rice. Stir it around to coat each grain with the remaining oil and seasonings left in the pan.
- Next, pour in 2 ¼ cups chicken broth and the juice of 1 lime. Stir everything together, and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Now, return the browned chicken to the pan, placing it on top of the rice. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow it to cook for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb all the flavorful broth.
- After the cooking time is up, remove the lid and check if the liquid has been completely absorbed. If so, fluff the rice gently with a fork, allowing it to mix with the chicken and spices.
- Finally, garnish your dish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top. This adds a beautiful freshness.
- Serve immediately, enjoying the vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas of your homemade One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice.
Things Worth Knowing
- Marinating: You can marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Rice Alternatives: Feel free to use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist, but cooking times may vary.
- Serving Size: This dish is perfect for meal prepping and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
- Garnishing: Adding slices of avocado or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish further.
Recipe Notes about One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice
Before you head off to make the One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice, here are some tips to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer bags.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
- Adjusting Heat: If you like it spicy, add extra cayenne pepper or serve with hot sauce on the side.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or green onions for added freshness.
Serving Options for One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice
When it comes to serving the One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice, the options are plentiful! Here’s how you can enjoy this delicious dish:
- Family Dinners: Serve this as a hearty meal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
- Lunch Meal Prep: Pack it in containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
- With Sides: Complement with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the dish.
- Seasonal Pairings: In summer, add a corn salad; in winter, serve with warm bread for a cozy feel.
- Garnish Options: Top with sliced avocados, fresh cilantro, or lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQ
Conclusion
The One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice is truly a dish that brings joy and comfort to the table. Its simple ingredients and vibrant flavors make it an easy choice for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try; once you do, it might just become a staple in your home too. Cooking should be a fun adventure, and this recipe is the perfect way to enjoy delicious meals without the fuss.
One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Mixing Bowl
- Frying Pan
- Skillet
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs or 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 juice of 1 lime plus additional lime wedges for serving
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 ¼ cups chicken broth
- chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine 3 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Stir to combine and season the chicken with half of the seasoning mixture, setting the remaining seasoning aside.
- Add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to heat up, shimmering slightly, which indicates it's ready for cooking.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 5 to 8 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This will help retain its juices while you prepare the rice.
- Returning to the same skillet, add 1 cup uncooked white rice. Stir it around to coat each grain with the remaining oil and seasonings left in the pan.
- Next, pour in 2 ¼ cups chicken broth and the juice of 1 lime. Stir everything together, and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Now, return the browned chicken to the pan, placing it on top of the rice. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow it to cook for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb all the flavorful broth.
- After the cooking time is up, remove the lid and check if the liquid has been completely absorbed. If so, fluff the rice gently with a fork, allowing it to mix with the chicken and spices.
- Finally, garnish your dish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top. This adds a beautiful freshness.
- Serve immediately, enjoying the vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas of your homemade One Pan Chili Lime Chicken and Rice.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Tip 2: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer bags.
- Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
- Tip 4: If you like it spicy, add extra cayenne pepper or serve with hot sauce on the side.
- Tip 5: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or green onions for added freshness.
