If you’re looking for a vibrant, fresh dish that bursts with flavor and soul, this Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans Recipe is going to be your new weeknight hero. Imagine tender chicken marinated in zesty orange and lime juices, paired with aromatic cilantro and smoky spices, all served alongside perfectly cooked rice and savory black beans. It’s a comforting yet bright meal that brings a fiesta of colors, textures, and tastes to your dinner table. Whether it’s a casual family meal or a dish to impress your friends, this recipe never fails to deliver warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish truly special. These simple but essential components come together effortlessly, so you can enjoy an impressive meal without any fuss.
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for juiciness or breasts for lean protein.
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice: Brings a bright, citrusy sweetness that tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: Adds a refreshing tang to balance the orange’s sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to marinate the chicken and keep it moist while cooking.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a rich and savory undertone to the marinade.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish): Offers fresh herbaceousness that elevates the whole dish.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: A subtle earthiness that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky warmth without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to highlight all the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional): Just a touch of sweetness to balance acidity perfectly.
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice: A comforting, neutral backdrop for the vibrant chicken and beans.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Rich, creamy beans that add protein and heartiness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing beans): Used to warm the beans and toast the spices for extra flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (for beans): Enhances the beans with a delicate garlicky note.
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin (for beans): Ties the beans in flavor with the chicken marinade for a harmonious meal.
How to Make Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing together the fresh orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and honey in a bowl or sealed zip-top bag. This marinade does double duty—imparting intense flavor while tenderizing the chicken for juiciness. Allow the chicken to soak in this citrusy, herbaceous mixture for at least 30 minutes, or if you have more time, up to 8 hours for even deeper flavor penetration.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet or grill pan on medium-high. Take the chicken out of the marinade and place it on the pan. Cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side will give you a nice, slightly charred surface while locking in moisture. Once cooked through, let the chicken rest for a few minutes—this step ensures every slice is tender and juicy.
Step 3: Prepare the Beans
While the chicken is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a small pan. Add the drained black beans along with garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes just to warm through and enhance the spices. These beans bring an earthy, creamy element that perfectly complements the bright chicken.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Start plating by dividing the cooked rice amongst your serving plates. Spoon the sautéed beans on top of the rice, then arrange the sliced cilantro orange chicken alongside or atop. The colors should be inviting, with the green cilantro garnish bringing a fresh contrast.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and offer lime wedges on the side for an extra citrus kick. This step rounds out the flavor and makes every bite pop with brightness.
How to Serve Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling extra fresh cilantro not only adds eye-catching color but enhances the dish’s bright, herbaceous notes. Fresh lime wedges on the side allow everyone to customize their citrus burst. For a little heat, adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp cabbage slaw or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. For something heartier, warm corn tortillas or a side of roasted vegetables create a balanced, festive meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser presentation, serve this Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans Recipe family-style on a large platter with all components artfully arranged. Alternatively, pack it into bowls layered like a burrito bowl for a casual, fun way to enjoy this vibrant meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken, rice, and beans store beautifully in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the garnishes separate to maintain their freshness and vibrant color. This makes for a quick grab-and-go lunch or an easy dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken and beans in separate freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Rice freezes well too but may change slightly in texture upon thawing. To minimize dryness, consider freezing the components separately.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken and beans gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Warm the rice separately to avoid overcooking. Adding fresh herbs after reheating revitalizes the flavor and brightness.
FAQs
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken thighs if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through and the skin crisps up nicely.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for 8 hours?
Marinating for 30 minutes already imparts good flavor, but if you have the time, longer marinating up to 8 hours allows the citrus and spices to deeply penetrate the meat for enhanced tenderness and taste.
Can I substitute black beans with another type of bean?
Absolutely! Pinto beans or kidney beans can be great alternatives and will still provide that creamy, hearty accompaniment that balances the chicken and rice.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
Can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?
To make a vegan or vegetarian version, swap the chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh marinated in the same citrus-spice blend, and you’ll still enjoy all the bold, vibrant flavors of this recipe.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans Recipe enough for anyone who loves bright, balanced flavors and a hands-on cooking experience that rewards you with a delicious, colorful plate. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table and leaves you craving more. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans, a zesty and wholesome meal featuring marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and served alongside seasoned black beans and fluffy rice. This recipe blends citrusy orange and lime juices with smoky spices and fresh cilantro for a deliciously balanced, colorful dish perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for balance)
Beans and Rice
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing beans)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (for beans)
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin (for beans)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together fresh orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and honey if using. Add the chicken thighs or breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 8 hours in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and lightly charred, ensuring a juicy texture. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- Sauté the Beans: While the chicken cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the black beans along with garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the beans are warmed through and the spices are fragrant.
- Assemble the Dish: Divide the cooked rice evenly among the serving plates. Top each portion with the sautéed black beans followed by the sliced cilantro orange chicken.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish each plate with additional fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick, if desired.
Notes
- Chicken can be marinated overnight for deeper flavor.
- Brown rice may be used instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
- Honey in the marinade is optional and adds a subtle sweetness that balances the citrus.
- Adjust seasoning in beans to your preference, adding more cumin or garlic powder if desired.
- Garnishing with fresh lime wedges enhances the dish’s brightness.
