Print

Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans

Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans is a vibrant, flavorful, and healthy dish combining juicy, citrus-infused chicken with seasoned rice and hearty beans. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this meal balances fresh herbs, tangy sweetness, and rich protein in a colorful presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Rice and Beans

  • 1 cup white or brown rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Thinly sliced green onions
  • Extra orange zest
  • Orange wedges
  • Lime wedges
  • Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: Whisk together freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This marinade infuses the chicken with bright, tangy flavors that form the heart of the dish.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or preferably up to 2 hours, in the refrigerator to absorb all the citrus and herb goodness.
  3. Cook the Rice and Beans: While the chicken marinates, cook your rice according to package directions. In a separate pan, sauté diced onion and garlic in olive oil, add drained beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, and warm through until fragrant and combined.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest briefly before slicing to retain its juices.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Plate a scoop of rice alongside a generous helping of beans, top with sliced cilantro orange chicken, and garnish with extra fresh cilantro and orange wedges for brightness.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken longer (overnight) for deeper flavor infusion.
  • Use fresh citrus and herbs for vibrant flavors.
  • Avoid overcooking chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Toast spices before adding to the beans for enhanced aroma and taste.
  • Let cooked chicken rest before slicing to improve juiciness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://amandafood.com/cilantro-orange-chicken-with-rice-and-beans/