One Pan Chili Lime Chicken & Rice: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Winner

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and insanely delicious one-pan meal, this Chili Lime Chicken & Rice is exactly what you need. Bursting with zesty lime, smoky chili seasoning, and tender chicken, all cooked over perfectly fluffy rice, this dish is a total flavor explosion with minimal cleanup.

Whether you’re feeding a family or just want to meal prep for the week, this vibrant, colorful skillet is a guaranteed hit—and it’s all made in one pan in under 45 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ One Pan = Easy Cleanup – Everything cooks together for convenience and flavor.
✔️ Bold, Tangy, & Smoky Flavors – A perfect balance of heat, citrus, and spice.
✔️ Wholesome & Filling – A complete meal with protein, grains, and veggies.
✔️ Great for Leftovers – Flavors get even better the next day!

Secrets to the Best Chili Lime Chicken & Rice

1. Marinate the Chicken for Extra Flavor

Let the chicken soak in lime juice and spices for at least 30 minutes for juicy, flavorful bites.

2. Sear for a Golden Crust

Searing the chicken before simmering locks in juices and adds rich, caramelized flavor.

3. Use Long Grain Rice for Fluffiness

Long grain or basmati rice stays light and fluffy in one-pan dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 ½ lbs chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless)
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste

For the Rice & Veggies:

1 cup long grain rice (uncooked)
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
½ cup frozen peas or mixed veggies
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons cilantro (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)

How to Make Chili Lime Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken and toss to coat.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown (don’t cook fully).
Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies & Rice

In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes.
Add uncooked rice and toast for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 4: Add Liquids & Chicken

Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and peas.
Nestle the chicken back into the skillet on top of the rice.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Cover and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Remove lid and fluff the rice.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.
Serve immediately for a vibrant, fresh flavor!

How to Store & Reheat

Storing Leftovers:

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating Instructions:

Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of broth for moisture.

Freezing Instructions:

Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Fun Variations & Add-Ins

1. Spicy Kick 🔥

Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

2. Creamy Twist 🥑

Top with avocado slices or guacamole.

3. Tex-Mex Style 🌮

Add black beans, corn, and cheese for a heartier dish.

4. Citrus Boost 🍊

Swap lime for orange juice and zest for a sweet-tangy twist.

What to Serve with Chili Lime Chicken & Rice

🥑 Guacamole or Avocado Salad – Creamy contrast to the zesty chicken.
🌽 Grilled Corn or Elote – Sweet, smoky side dish.
🥗 Cucumber Lime Salad – Refreshing and cooling.
🥤 Agua Fresca or Limeade – Keep the citrus flowing!

Final Thoughts: A Flavor Bomb in Every Bite

One Pan Chili Lime Chicken & Rice is easy, flavorful, and satisfying—a dish that’s loaded with spice, zest, and comfort. Ideal for busy nights or relaxed weekends, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Try it out and let me know—do you love it spicy, tangy, or both?