Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans

Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans is a vibrant, citrusy, and savory dish that brings bold Latin-inspired flavors to your table. Tender chicken is marinated in a zesty cilantro-orange sauce, then cooked to juicy perfection and served over fluffy rice with hearty black beans. It’s a well-rounded, colorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with fresh, zesty flavor from citrus and herbs
• A complete and balanced meal in one plate
• Great for meal prep and family dinners
• Naturally gluten-free and full of protein
• Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cilantro orange chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Fresh orange juice
• Orange zest
• Fresh cilantro
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Lime juice
• Ground cumin
• Chili powder or paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

For the rice and beans:

• Cooked white or brown rice
• Black beans (canned, drained and rinsed)
• Garlic (minced)
• Onion (chopped)
• Olive oil
• Cumin
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro

directions

1. Make the marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine orange juice, zest, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag and pour marinade over. Let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let rest before slicing.
4. Make the rice and beans: In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft. Stir in black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through, then stir into warm cooked rice. Add lime juice and chopped cilantro if desired.
5. Assemble: Serve sliced chicken over the rice and beans. Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or avocado.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes (minimum)
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour (including marinating)

Variations

• Make it spicy: Add jalapeño or hot sauce to the marinade.
• Swap the protein: Use shrimp, tofu, or pork for variety.
• Use quinoa: Substitute rice with quinoa for added protein.
• Add toppings: Try sliced avocado, pickled onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
• Make it a bowl: Layer everything in a bowl with greens for a salad-style version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm chicken and rice together in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.
This dish is also freezer-friendly—store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch—just make sure it’s 100% juice.

Can I grill the chicken?

Yes! Grilling adds a smoky depth—just cook over medium heat until nicely charred and fully cooked.

What type of rice works best?

White, brown, jasmine, or basmati rice all work well—use your favorite or what you have on hand.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your spices and canned beans.

Can I make this with frozen chicken?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw before marinating for best flavor absorption.

What if I don’t have a blender?

Finely chop the cilantro and garlic and whisk the marinade ingredients together by hand.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken a day ahead and cook fresh. Rice and beans can also be made in advance.

What beans can I use besides black beans?

Pinto beans, kidney beans, or cannellini beans are great substitutes.

How can I make the chicken extra juicy?

Use thighs for more moisture, and avoid overcooking. Let it rest before slicing.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes—just toss it in the marinade to coat and warm it in a skillet with the sauce for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans is a flavorful, feel-good meal that’s bursting with fresh ingredients and bold taste. With its zesty marinade, hearty beans, and fluffy rice, it’s both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend feast, this dish delivers every time.

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