Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice

Looking for a dish that packs a punch with bold flavors yet feels fresh and vibrant? This Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice is the perfect choice! Imagine succulent chicken breasts coated in a fiery Cajun spice rub, pan-seared to golden perfection, and paired with fragrant, zesty rice that’s bursting with fresh coriander and a hint of lime. The combination of smoky, spicy chicken and refreshing, citrusy rice creates a perfect balance, making each bite exciting and satisfying. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s quick to make, but bold enough to impress your taste buds and anyone you serve it to. Trust me, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice

Here’s why this recipe is sure to become a new favorite:

• Bold Flavors: The Cajun spice rub on the chicken gives it a smoky, spicy kick, while the fresh cilantro and lime in the rice add a burst of freshness.
• Easy to Make: This dish is simple to whip up, perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend dinner. You’ll have a complete meal ready in just 30 minutes!
• One-Pan Wonder: The chicken and rice come together in one pan, which means minimal clean-up—just maximum flavor.
• Customizable: You can adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less Cajun seasoning, and feel free to switch up the fresh herbs if you prefer parsley or basil instead of cilantro.
• Family-Friendly: With its vibrant flavors and tender chicken, this dish is a great way to introduce your family to new flavors that are sure to become a hit!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this flavorful, satisfying meal:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the perfect choice for this recipe as they cook quickly and remain juicy.
• Cajun Seasoning: The star of this dish! The blend of spices will give the chicken its signature bold flavor, so don’t skimp on it.
• Olive Oil: Used to cook the chicken and to get that delicious, crispy sear.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a fragrant depth of flavor to both the chicken and the rice.
• Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens up the rice and adds a zesty kick to balance the spiced chicken.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice works best in this recipe, but you can use brown rice or jasmine rice for a different texture.
• Coriander (Cilantro): Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbaceous flavor to the rice, giving it a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
• Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth for cooking the rice infuses it with extra flavor.
• Butter: A small amount of butter in the rice adds richness and depth to the dish.
• Salt & Pepper: To season everything to perfection.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to dive in? Let’s walk through the simple steps for making this delicious meal:

Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with a generous amount of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be sure to rub it into the chicken so it’s evenly coated.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest while you make the rice.

Cook the Rice

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Next, add the rice to the skillet, stirring it to coat in the garlic and oil. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast.

Add Broth and Lime

Pour in the chicken broth, followed by a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Fluff the Rice

Once the rice is done, remove the skillet from the heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the fresh chopped cilantro (coriander) and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the rested Cajun chicken and serve it over the fragrant coriander-lime rice. You can drizzle any pan juices over the top for added flavor and serve with extra lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving of Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice:

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 450 calories
• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 720mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 40g
• Vitamin A: 4%
• Vitamin C: 25%
• Calcium: 4%
• Iron: 10%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you’re looking for some complementary sides, consider these options:

• Grilled Vegetables: Pair with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for a light and healthy side.
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the spiciness of the chicken and add some crunch.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the Cajun spice and adds a touch of comfort to the meal.
• Sautéed Greens: Spinach, kale, or collard greens sautéed with garlic would add a nice, earthy contrast to the dish.

Additional Tips

• Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder version. You can also add a dash of paprika or thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Spicier: For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the rice.
• Substitute with Chicken Thighs: If you prefer chicken thighs over breasts, feel free to swap them in. Just be sure to cook them for a bit longer to ensure they’re fully cooked through.
• Herb Variations: While cilantro is traditional, you can experiment with other herbs like parsley or basil if you prefer.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A1: Yes! Brown rice works well, but it may take a little longer to cook—about 40-45 minutes—so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q2: Can I make the rice ahead of time?

A2: Yes! You can prepare the rice a day in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just fluff it with a fork before serving to loosen it up.

Q3: Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it?

A3: Absolutely! Grilling the chicken will add a delicious smoky flavor to the dish. Just be sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Q4: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

A4: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Q5: Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

A5: Yes! You can easily swap the chicken for shrimp, fish fillets, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Q6: Can I make this dish in advance?

A6: You can prepare the rice ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the chicken fresh to keep it tender and juicy. Reheat the rice and serve it with the freshly cooked chicken.

Q7: Can I make the Cajun seasoning at home?

A7: Yes! You can make your own Cajun seasoning by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and salt. Adjust the heat level to your preference.

Q8: How can I make the rice fluffier?

A8: For fluffier rice, be sure to rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Also, don’t skip the fluffing step once the rice is cooked!

Q9: Can I add veggies to the rice?

A9: Absolutely! Feel free to stir in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas for added texture and flavor.

Q10: Can I freeze leftovers?

A10: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and rice in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

Cajun Chicken with Coriander and Lime Rice is the kind of meal that combines bold flavors with fresh, vibrant ingredients to create something truly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special meal with friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With its balance of smoky, spicy chicken and bright, zesty rice, it’s a meal that feels both comforting and exciting. Get ready to enjoy every bite—this one’s a keeper!

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