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Pesto Chicken & Cilantro Lime Rice Bowl

Pesto Chicken & Cilantro Lime Rice Bowl


  • Author: OliviaBennett

Description

Hey kitchen friend! Olivia here, waving from my flour-dusted countertop. If you’re craving a meal that’s quick, fresh, and soul-hugging delicious, this bowl is your new best friend. Tender grilled chicken, zesty cilantro-lime rice, peppery arugula, and vibrant pesto all come together in 25 minutes flat—perfect for busy days and meal-prep wins!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 grilled organic chicken breast, sliced

  • 1 cup cooked cilantro lime rice (jasmine or basmati)

  • 1 cup fresh arugula

  • 2 tbsp pesto (homemade or good-quality jarred)

  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)

  • Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, flaky salt, and pepper for garnish


Instructions

  • Prep chicken: Rub chicken breast with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Grill or pan-sear 5–7 mins per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest 5 mins before slicing.

  • Build your bowl: Spread arugula in a wide bowl. Mound the cilantro lime rice slightly off-center. Fan sliced chicken over the rice.

  • Add the magic: Drizzle pesto over chicken and rice. Finish with a zigzag of EVOO. (Warm pesto slightly for easier drizzling.)

  • Garnish: Top with extra cilantro leaves, cracked pepper, flaky salt, and a lime wedge.

Notes

  • Pesto too thick or separates? Warm gently or stir in a tsp of warm water.

  • Make ahead? Store components separately to keep greens crisp. Assemble before eating.

  • Dry chicken? Brine 30 mins before cooking and cook to 165°F (71°C), then rest.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 500 cal Per Serving
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 36g