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Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans

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This zesty and flavorful chicken dish is marinated in a bright cilantro-orange sauce, then seared to juicy perfection. Served over hearty rice and beans, it’s a wholesome and satisfying meal inspired by Latin flavors—perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken & Marinade:

  • 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

  • ½ cup fresh orange juice

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Rice and Beans:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 cup long-grain white or brown rice

  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water

  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
    In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine orange juice, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).

  2. Cook the Rice and Beans:
    In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add rice and stir for 1–2 minutes.
    Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook according to rice package instructions.
    When the rice is tender, stir in black beans, cumin, and season to taste. Cover and let sit off heat for 5 minutes.

  3. Cook the Chicken:
    Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Let rest, then slice.

  4. Assemble and Serve:
    Plate the rice and beans, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with fresh cilantro and extra lime wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Make it spicier with a pinch of chili flakes or jalapeño in the marinade.

  • Use leftover rice and beans to speed things up.

  • Works great as a burrito bowl or meal prep lunch.

 

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