Cilantro Lime Rice Bowl with Spicy Grilled Chicken & Avocado

A colorful, protein-packed bowl featuring smoky grilled chicken, fluffy cilantro-lime rice, creamy avocado, and fresh herbs. Perfect for lunch or dinner!

 Ingredients

For the Spicy Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
• 1½ tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

For the Cilantro Lime Rice

• 1½ cups cooked white rice
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• Pinch of salt

For the Bowl

• 1 large ripe avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Extra black pepper, optional

 Instructions

1. Season the chicken: Add chicken, olive oil, paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice to a bowl. Mix well and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until beautifully browned and cooked through. For food safety, chicken should reach 165°F / 74°C internally.
3. Prepare the rice: Fluff the warm cooked rice with a fork. Mix in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a small pinch of salt.
4. Assemble: Divide the cilantro-lime rice between serving bowls. Add the spicy grilled chicken and arrange the avocado slices on the side.
5. Garnish & serve: Sprinkle generously with fresh cilantro and black pepper. Add a lime wedge and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2–3

 Nut Information

Nut-Free Recipe: This recipe does not contain peanuts or tree nuts. Always check packaged spices and other ingredients for possible cross-contamination if serving someone with a severe nut allergy.

 Q&A

Q: Can I use brown rice?
Yes! Brown rice, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice all work well.

Q: Can I make it less spicy?
Absolutely. Reduce or omit the chili powder.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store the chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add fresh avocado just before serving.

Q: Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes! Prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time and divide them into meal-prep containers. Add avocado and cilantro when ready to eat.