Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you'll need chicken breasts or thighs, rice, chicken broth, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, onion, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices or herbs for extra flavor, such as paprika or cumin. Brown the chicken in a large pot or skillet with some olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on both sides, then remove it from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become fragrant and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Once the onion and garlic are cooked, add the rice to the pot. Stir well to coat the rice with the aromatics and oil. Toasting the rice slightly before adding liquid can enhance its flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth and lime juice. Stir to combine everything evenly. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Return the chicken pieces to the pot, nestling them into the rice and liquid mixture. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is tender.
Once the rice and chicken are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in chopped cilantro, reserving some for garnish if desired. The cilantro will add a fresh and vibrant flavor to the dish.
Serve the one-pot chicken and cilantro lime rice hot, garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired. This dish pairs well with a side of vegetables or a simple salad.