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
Scale
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.
