Juicy grilled chicken breasts are coated in a vibrant cilantro lime cream sauce and served over a bed of fluffy white rice. This rich yet refreshing dish combines zesty citrus, fresh herbs, and smooth cream for a comforting and satisfying dinner that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy cilantro lime chicken offers a beautiful balance of flavor and texture — tender chicken, silky sauce, and the fragrant brightness of lime and cilantro. It’s ideal for weeknight meals when you want something comforting but not heavy. With minimal prep and everyday ingredients, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results at home.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

To Serve:

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• Extra lime slices and cilantro for garnish

directions

1. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Grill or sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes to deglaze the pan.
5. Add the heavy cream, lime juice, and lime zest. Stir and let simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
6. Stir in the chopped cilantro, and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let simmer for another 2–3 minutes to warm through.
8. Serve the chicken over cooked white rice with generous spoonfuls of the sauce. Garnish with lime slices and extra cilantro if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or sautéed spinach instead of white rice.
• Add Veggies: Include sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach in the sauce for added nutrition.
• Use Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace cream with full-fat coconut milk for a tropical twist.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Avoid boiling the sauce when reheating, as it may separate or curdle.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Reheat gently before serving.

What’s the best rice to use?

Long grain white rice works best, but jasmine or basmati rice also pair well with the flavors.

Can I substitute dried cilantro?

Fresh cilantro is recommended for its brightness, but you can use 1–2 tsp dried cilantro if needed.

Is it necessary to zest the lime?

Lime zest adds a concentrated citrus flavor, enhancing the sauce. It is recommended, but the recipe will still work without it.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Heavy cream provides the best texture. Milk may result in a thinner, less rich sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Simmer gently and avoid high heat after adding cream and lime juice. Stir continuously.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or even water with a bit of bouillon can be substituted if needed.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Ensure your broth and spices are labeled gluten-free to be safe.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A side of sautéed green beans, roasted vegetables, or a light salad complements the richness of the sauce.

Can I freeze this meal?

The chicken and rice freeze well, but the cream sauce may separate. For best results, store sauce separately and stir well after reheating.

Conclusion

Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken with Rice is a delightful combination of rich and fresh flavors that come together in under 30 minutes. With its citrusy brightness and creamy depth, this recipe is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Perfect for casual dinners, meal prep, or even a special evening at home, it’s a versatile and satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.

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