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Honey Lime Grilled Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Rice

honey lime grilled chicken skewers - featured image
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A quick and easy recipe featuring juicy honey lime marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection, served with fragrant cilantro rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup long grain white rice or jasmine rice
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss until well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes, up to 2 hours.
  2. If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  3. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
  4. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water or broth with a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  6. Remove rice from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and butter if using. Adjust salt to taste.
  7. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
  8. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill skewers for 3-4 minutes per side until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcooking.
  9. Serve hot skewers over cilantro rice. Garnish with extra lime wedges and fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Soak bamboo skewers for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Marinate chicken at least 15 minutes for best flavor but no longer than 4 hours to avoid meat breakdown. Use smoked paprika for subtle smokiness. Rinse rice well to prevent mushiness. If chicken sticks to grill, brush grates with oil before cooking. For vegan cilantro rice, omit butter or substitute with plant-based alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey lime chicken, grilled chicken skewers, cilantro rice, easy dinner, summer BBQ, quick chicken recipe

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