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Juicy Summer Cilantro Lime Chicken Bowl

A bright, herbaceous chicken bowl with a tangy cilantro lime marinade, fluffy grains, and crisp summer vegetables. Perfect for a light but satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • ¼ cup fresh lime juice about 2 limes
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro finely chopped, plus more for garnish
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice warm or at room temperature
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 avocado diced
  • ½ cup corn kernels fresh or thawed frozen
  • ¼ cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
  • Lime wedges for serving

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • chef's knife
  • cutting board
  • grill or grill pan
  • instant-read thermometer
  • large serving bowl

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper. Reserve 2 tablespoons of this marinade for drizzling later.
  2. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, turning to coat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer and the outside has distinct grill marks. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain.
  5. While chicken rests, assemble bowls: divide cooked quinoa or rice among bowls. Top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, corn, and crumbled cheese.
  6. Drizzle the reserved 2 tablespoons of marinade over each bowl. Garnish with extra cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken and grains gently, then add fresh vegetables and avocado just before serving. For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.