Description
Juicy, flavorful grilled chicken marinated in bold spices and zesty citrus, paired with rich, creamy rice for a restaurant-quality meal you can whip up at home. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests
Ingredients
Scale
- For the chicken marinade:
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- 2 tbsp lime juice (zesty and tangy)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (aromatic and flavorful)
- 1 tsp ground cumin (earthy and warm)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (adds a smoky depth)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (mild heat)
- 1/2 tsp oregano (herbal touch)
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground for boldness)
For the creamy rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (fluffy and light)
- 2 cups chicken broth (rich and savory)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (adds creaminess)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (tangy and smooth)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (subtle flavor boost)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (savory touch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Make the Creamy Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in heavy cream, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until creamy and well-combined.
- Serve:
- Plate the creamy rice and top it with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg