What to Serve with Cilantro Lime Chicken: 34 Flavorful Options
There’s something undeniably zesty and enticing about cilantro lime chicken, wouldn’t you agree?
Whether you’re a pro at whipping up this vibrant dish or just dipping your toes in, we’re about to make your culinary journey even more exciting.
But before we dive into the delicious world of potential pairings, let’s take a brief detour to understand what exactly cilantro lime chicken is.
Buckle up, and let’s get cooking!
What is Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Cilantro lime chicken is this incredibly mouth-watering dish that’s as colorful as it is flavorful. Think tender chicken marinated in a zesty, tangy blend of fresh lime juice, fragrant cilantro, and a pinch of spice – usually cumin or chili. Then, it’s usually grilled or baked to juicy perfection. It’s a staple in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine, and it’s famous for its fresh, vibrant flavors that make your taste buds do a happy dance. Now that you’re in the know, why not take a look below and explore all the fantastic dishes we can pair with our star, the cilantro lime chicken. Ready to amp up your mealtime? Let’s dive in!
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Grains and Pulses
These elements serve as a substantial and filling base for the meal.
They often provide a balancing act, soaking up the tangy and spicy juices of the cilantro lime chicken, thus harmonizing the overall taste experience.
Steamed Brown Rice
As the simplest pairing, steamed brown rice absorbs the juices of the cilantro lime chicken while providing a wholesome, nutty flavor.
Its natural mildness doesn’t compete with the chicken, allowing the main dish’s flavor to shine through.
Of course, you can sub in any other type of rice, quinoa, or couscous.
(Rice also works great alongside ham and bean soup.)
Black Bean Quinoa Salad with Orange Lime Dressing
Black bean quinoa salad with orange lime dressing is another option that perfectly complements the flavors of cilantro lime chicken. This salad provides a substantial and filling base for your meal, while also harmonizing the tangy and spicy juices of the chicken.
With a refreshing combination of mixed greens, quinoa, black beans, and a zesty orange lime dressing, this recipe adds a delightful twist to your dining experience.
Give it a try and treat your taste buds to a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Feeling inspired? Try this Black Bean Quinoa Salad with Orange Lime Dressing from Minimalist Baker.
Greek Couscous Salad
If you’re looking for a satisfying and flavorful side dish to complement your cilantro lime chicken, this Greek couscous salad recipe is the perfect choice.
With a combination of Israeli couscous, chickpeas, crunchy cucumbers, juicy grape tomatoes, and tangy kalamata olives, it offers a substantial and filling base for your meal. The refreshing dressing made with red wine vinegar, olive oil, and aromatic herbs adds a zesty kick that perfectly balances the flavors of the cilantro lime chicken.
Give this recipe a try, and you won’t be disappointed with the harmonious taste experience it brings to your table.
Sounds like something up your alley? Here’s the Greek Couscous Salad recipe, courtesy of A Pinch of Healthy.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro lime rice is the perfect companion to cilantro lime chicken, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal. The rice serves as a substantial and filling base, soaking up the tangy and spicy juices of the chicken. With its refreshing citrus flavor and fragrant cilantro, this rice adds a delightful twist to your meal, elevating the taste experience.
Give it a try and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors that will leave you wanting more!
Check out this delicious Cilantro Lime Rice recipe from SoupAddict.
Mexican Rice with Roasted Veggies
If you’re looking for a satisfying and hearty dish to pair with your cilantro lime chicken, this Mexican rice with roasted veggies recipe is just what you need.
The combination of flavorful brown rice, tender yams, and roasted peppers creates a delicious and filling base that perfectly complements the tangy and spicy flavors of the chicken.
With its simple yet robust ingredients, this recipe is a fantastic way to enhance the overall taste experience of your meal. Give it a try and enjoy a harmonious and satisfying dining experience!
Give your taste buds a treat with this Mexican Rice with Roasted Veggies from Feasting At Home.
Grilled or Roasted Vegetables
A side of grilled or roasted vegetables introduces an additional layer of flavor to your meal. The caramelization process of grilling or roasting brings out the natural sweetness in vegetables, creating a delightful contrast with the citrusy, herbaceous chicken.
Roasted or grilled veggies offer a smoky, slightly charred flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken while also enhancing the overall nutritional balance of the meal.
Grilled Bell Peppers
These are very easy to make. Simply slice, brush with oil, and grill. Their sweet and smoky flavor pairs well with the citrusy notes of the cilantro lime chicken, and their vibrant colors add visual appeal to the plate.
Oven Roasted Zucchini
Why not try this incredibly simple recipe for oven roasted zucchini? It’s a breeze to make and pairs perfectly with cilantro lime chicken.
The zucchini becomes tender and golden brown with a slightly smoky flavor, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to your meal.
Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate some healthy veggies into your plate. Give it a go and you won’t be disappointed!
Feeling hungry? Take a look at Oven Roasted Zucchini (So Easy!) on Wholesome Yum | Easy healthy recipes. 10 ingredients or less..
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Looking for a delicious and flavorful side to complement your cilantro lime chicken? Look no further than this grilled corn on the cob recipe!
The caramelization process of grilling brings out the natural sweetness of the corn, creating a delightful contrast with the citrusy, herbaceous chicken.
With its smoky, slightly charred flavor, this side dish perfectly enhances the overall nutritional balance of your meal. Give it a try and elevate your dinner to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Here’s the Grilled Corn on the Cob recipe if you’re interested, courtesy of Amanda’s Cookin’.
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts recipe offers a deliciously sweet and tangy twist to your cilantro lime chicken dish. The caramelization process brings out the natural sweetness of the sprouts, creating a delightful contrast with the citrusy and herbaceous flavors of the chicken.
Not only does it add an extra layer of flavor, but the roasted veggies also provide a smoky and slightly charred taste that perfectly complements the chicken.
Give this recipe a try and elevate your meal with its irresistible combination of flavors.
Give your taste buds a treat with this Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts from Detoxinista.
(You can pair these with Italian sausage or serve them alongside zucchini fritters.)
Grilled Eggplant with Yoghurt Sauce
If you’re looking to elevate your cilantro lime chicken to new heights, look no further than this recipe for grilled eggplant with yogurt sauce.
The smoky, slightly charred flavor of the roasted eggplant perfectly complements the citrusy, herbaceous notes of the chicken. Plus, the creamy yogurt sauce adds a tangy and refreshing element that will have your taste buds dancing.
This simple yet flavorful side dish will take your meal to the next level and leave you craving for more. Give it a try, and thank me later!
Ready for a culinary adventure? Explore Grilled Eggplant with Yoghurt Sauce on RecipeTin Eats for more.
Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
Here’s another option: roasted sweet potato salad. It’s the perfect companion to cilantro lime chicken, adding a delightful contrast of flavors and textures to your meal.
The caramelized sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the citrusy, herbaceous chicken, creating a mouthwatering combination that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
Plus, the smoky, slightly charred flavor of the veggies adds an extra layer of deliciousness while boosting the nutritional balance of your plate.
Ready for a culinary adventure? Explore Roasted Sweet Potato Salad on What Should I Make For… – Recipes for breakfast, dessert and everything else. for more.
Veggie Skewers with Magic Green Sauce
This veggie skewers recipe offers a delightful medley of flavors and textures, combining the natural goodness of sweet potatoes, baby red potatoes, bell peppers, red onions, and portobello mushrooms. The touch of grilled corn (if you decide to add it) adds a lovely smokiness to the mix.
But you know what would take this veggie fiesta to the next level? Pairing it with some succulent cilantro lime chicken!
Trust me, the zesty and aromatic flavors of the cilantro lime chicken beautifully complement the smoky-sweet essence of the veggie skewers. The magic green sauce drizzled over the skewers adds a refreshing tang that will make your taste buds dance with joy. The combination of tender, juicy chicken and grilled veggies is an absolute winner, and it’s the perfect excuse to gather your friends and family for a scrumptious outdoor feast.
So fire up that grill or get ready to broil, and treat yourself to this mouthwatering duo – you won’t be disappointed!
Loving this? Veggie Skewers with Magic Green Sauce on Minimalist Baker is where you find the instruction.
(These skewers also work well with lemon pepper chicken.)
Roasted Root Vegetable Stew
Give your taste buds a treat with this Roasted Root Vegetable Stew from A Saucy Kitchen.
Salads
Salads serve as refreshing and often lighter accompaniments to the main dish, helping to cut through the richness of the chicken and providing contrast in both temperature and texture.
Watermelon Salad Recipe with Honey Lime Dressing
Looking for a refreshing and light side dish to complement your cilantro lime chicken? Look no further than this watermelon salad with honey lime dressing!
The juicy watermelon, crunchy cucumbers, and peppery arugula create the perfect contrast in both temperature and texture to your flavorful chicken. The tangy feta cheese and zesty mint add a burst of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. Give this salad a try and prepare for a deliciously balanced meal that will leave you satisfied and refreshed.
Treat yourself to this amazing Watermelon Salad Recipe with Honey Lime Dressing from Lena’s Kitchen.
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
This cucumber tomato avocado salad is the perfect companion to your cilantro lime chicken.
It offers a refreshing burst of flavors that beautifully complements the zesty and vibrant taste of the chicken. The combination of juicy Roma tomatoes, crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and tangy dressing creates a delightful contrast in both texture and taste.
Give it a try, and you’ll see how this salad adds a refreshing touch to your meal, balancing out the richness of the chicken in the most delicious way.
Whip up this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad from NatashasKitchen.com.
Corn Salad
This corn salad recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that perfectly complements the zesty cilantro lime chicken.
With its sweet corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and tangy feta cheese, this salad adds a refreshing and light element to your meal. The hint of basil and the zing from the lime juice further enhance the overall taste, making it an ideal side dish to balance out the richness of the chicken.
Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!
Loving this? Corn Salad on Simple Joy is where you find the instruction.
Black Bean and Corn Salad
Black bean and corn salad is the perfect companion to cilantro lime chicken.
This vibrant salad brings a burst of freshness and crunch to your plate, balancing out the flavors of the chicken.
With the combination of sweet corn, juicy grape tomatoes, and the subtle kick of chili powder and cumin, this salad adds a delightful contrast in both taste and texture.
So, why not give this recipe a try?
Tempted to cook this? Black Bean and Corn Salad from Spend With Pennies is where you find the whole recipe.
Legumes
Dishes like black beans provide a hearty, protein-rich complement to the chicken. Their earthy flavor and creamy texture can balance out the zesty, tangy profile of the chicken, while contributing additional fiber and protein to the meal.
As a staple in many Latin cuisines, they maintain the thematic integrity of the meal, creating a coherent culinary experience.
Easy Black Beans
This easy black beans recipe pairs perfectly with cilantro lime chicken because it adds a hearty and protein-rich element to your meal.
The earthy flavor and creamy texture of the beans beautifully balance out the zesty and tangy profile of the chicken. Plus, with the additional fiber and protein, it makes for a satisfying and well-rounded culinary experience.
Give it a try and elevate your cilantro lime chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Feeling inspired? Try this Easy Black Beans from A Couple Cooks.
Ethiopian Berbere Spiced Chickpeas and Polenta
Here’s another option: Ethiopian berbere spiced chickpeas and polenta. This recipe offers a delightful twist to pair with your cilantro lime chicken. The combination of the flavorful berbere seasoning and the creamy texture of the chickpeas perfectly complements the zesty and tangy profile of the chicken. Plus, the polenta adds a crispy and satisfying element to the dish.
Give it a try and elevate your culinary experience with this hearty and protein-rich pairing.
Craving this? Check out the Ethiopian Berbere Spiced Chickpeas and Polenta recipe from Connoisseurus Veg.
Refried Beans
This easy 1-pot refried beans recipe pairs perfectly with cilantro lime chicken because it adds a delicious and comforting element to your meal.
The creamy and smooth texture of the refried beans complements the zesty and tangy flavors of the cilantro lime chicken, creating a balanced and satisfying combination. Plus, the simplicity of this recipe means you can easily whip up a batch of refried beans while your chicken is marinating, making it a convenient and tasty addition to your dinner.
Give it a try and enjoy the delightful flavors of this pairing!
Craving this? Check out the Easy 1-Pot Refried Beans recipe from Minimalist Baker.
Black Bean Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
This tomato avocado black bean salad with cilantro lime dressing recipe pairs perfectly with cilantro lime chicken because it adds a refreshing and vibrant element to the meal.
The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and crunchy bell peppers complements the zesty flavors of the chicken, creating a delicious balance of textures and tastes. Plus, the protein-packed black beans provide an earthy and satisfying addition, making it a well-rounded and nutritious pairing.
Give it a try and elevate your cilantro lime chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Why not try Tomato Avocado Black Bean Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing from Flavour and Savour today?
Lentil Ragout – French Puy lentil side dish
If you’re looking for a protein-rich and flavorful side dish to complement your cilantro lime chicken, this lentil ragout recipe is a must-try.
With its earthy and creamy texture, the French puy lentils perfectly balance out the zesty and tangy profile of the chicken. Not only does it add fiber and protein to your meal, but it also maintains the thematic integrity, creating a cohesive culinary experience.
Give it a go and elevate your chicken dinner to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Dive into deliciousness with this Lentil Ragout – French Puy lentil side dish from RecipeTin Eats.
Dips, Sauces, and Salsas
These add a savory and creamy element to the meal, acting as a bridge between the various components on the plate. Guacamole, for instance, brings creaminess, richness, and a touch of coolness, offering a beautiful contrast to the zesty and spicy chicken.
Dips and sauces also allow for personalization of the meal, as diners can adjust the amount according to their preference.
Sour Cream
Another easy pairing, sour cream provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the spicy and zesty flavors of the cilantro lime chicken. It can be used as is, or enhanced with a little lime zest and juice.
Fresh Guacamole
Here’s another option for you to try: fresh guacamole. It’s the perfect pairing to cilantro lime chicken, adding a burst of flavor and creaminess to your meal.
With just a few simple ingredients like ripe avocados, diced tomatoes, and zesty lime juice, this guacamole recipe is quick and easy to make.
Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with the delicious combination of the tangy chicken and the creamy guacamole. Give it a try and elevate your meal to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Fancy this? Check out The BEST Fresh Guacamole from Buy This Cook That.
Homemade Pico de Gallo
Why not whip up a batch of homemade pico de gallo to pair with your cilantro lime chicken? This zesty and refreshing salsa is the perfect complement to the tangy flavors of the chicken.
With just a handful of fresh ingredients like juicy Roma tomatoes, zingy lime juice, and aromatic cilantro, you’ll have a vibrant and flavorful side dish that will take your meal to the next level.
Give it a try and let your taste buds do a happy dance!
Let’s get cooking with this Homemade Pico de Gallo from Kevin Is Cooking.
Spicy Tropical Pineapple Mango Salsa
This spicy tropical pineapple mango salsa is the perfect accompaniment to your cilantro lime chicken. It offers a burst of fresh and tangy flavors that will complement the zesty and savory taste of the chicken.
The combination of diced mango, pineapple, and red bell pepper adds a refreshing sweetness, while the jalapeño and red chili pepper provide a delightful kick of heat. The addition of lime juice, cilantro, and ginger adds a zingy and aromatic twist to the salsa.
This salsa will take your cilantro lime chicken to the next level.
Check out this delicious Spicy Tropical Pineapple Mango Salsa recipe from Garlic & Zest.
Grilled Pineapple Salsa
This grilled pineapple salsa recipe offers a delightful combination of sweet and smoky flavors that perfectly complement the tangy and zesty cilantro lime chicken.
The caramelized pineapple and charred red peppers add a unique depth to the salsa, while the jalapeños and lime juice provide a refreshing kick.
Together, these two dishes create a harmonious balance of flavors that will elevate your taste buds to a whole new level. Give it a try and prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the explosion of flavors on your plate!
Treat yourself to this amazing Grilled Pineapple Salsa Recipe from Last Ingredient.
Chipotle Crema
Chipotle crema is another option you should definitely consider trying as a pairing to cilantro lime chicken.
This creamy and savory sauce adds a delightful kick to your meal, complementing the zesty and spicy flavors of the chicken. With just the right amount of heat from the chipotle peppers and a hint of tanginess from the lime juice, this dip will elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.
Give it a go.
Here’s the Chipotle Crema recipe if you’re interested, courtesy of House of Yumm.
Salsa Verde (Green Salsa)
This homemade salsa verde offers a tangy and vibrant twist to your cilantro lime chicken.
With its fresh tomatillos, jalapeño peppers, and zesty lime juice, it adds a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the zesty and spicy chicken. Plus, you can easily adjust the heat level to your liking by adding or removing the jalapeño seeds.
Give it a try and elevate your meal with this savory and creamy dip!
Dive into deliciousness with this Homemade Salsa Verde (Green Salsa) from One Lovely Life.
Fire Roasted Salsa
This fire roasted salsa recipe pairs perfectly with cilantro lime chicken because it adds a burst of smoky and tangy flavors that complement the zesty and spicy chicken.
The charred chiles and roasted garlic create a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Plus, the creamy and savory element of the salsa acts as a bridge between the different components on your plate, making each bite a harmonious delight.
Give it a try and elevate your cilantro lime chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Craving this? Check out the Fire Roasted Salsa recipe from Hilda’s Kitchen Blog.
Wraps
Including a component like soft tortillas can transform the eating experience, adding an interactive element to the meal. They can be used to create delicious tacos or fajitas with the cilantro lime chicken, allowing for a variety of textures and flavors in each bite.
Additionally, the mild flavor of the tortillas can provide a pleasant backdrop to the vibrant flavors of the chicken and other accompaniments.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos
Here’s how to turn your cilantro lime chicken into delicious tacos.
Ingredients:
- Cilantro lime chicken
- Soft corn tortillas
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Guacamole
- Fresh lime wedges
- Chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
- Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat or directly over the flame of a gas stove until they are soft and pliable.
- Spread a spoonful of guacamole onto each tortilla.
- Layer on the cilantro lime chicken.
- Top with salsa or pico de gallo and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro.
- Squeeze a lime wedge over the top and fold the tortilla around the filling. Serve immediately.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Fajitas
Craving fajitas? Here’s how to turn the chicken into fajitas:
Ingredients:
- Cilantro lime chicken
- Bell peppers (assorted colors), sliced
- Onion, sliced
- Flour tortillas
- Sour cream
- Fresh lime wedges
Instructions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced bell peppers and onion until they are soft and starting to caramelize.
- Warm the flour tortillas in a separate skillet or in the microwave.
- Layer the sautéed peppers and onions onto the warm tortillas.
- Add the cilantro lime chicken on top.
- Serve the fajitas with sour cream and lime wedges on the side. Diners can add these toppings as they prefer.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Quesadillas
Love quesadillas? Let’s do this.
Ingredients:
- Cilantro lime chicken
- Flour tortillas
- Shredded cheese (Mexican blend or Monterey Jack is best)
- Sour cream
- Salsa
Instructions:
- Lay out a flour tortilla on a flat surface and spread a handful of shredded cheese onto one half.
- Layer the cilantro lime chicken on top of the cheese.
- Fold the tortilla in half over the filling.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the quesadilla until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown on both sides, flipping once.
- Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream and salsa for dipping.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Burritos
Feels like a burrito day? Easy.
Make sure you have the following:
- Cilantro lime chicken
- Large flour tortillas
- Cooked black beans
- Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice (see recipes above)
- Shredded cheese (Mexican blend or Monterey Jack are best)
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Salsa
Instructions:
- Lay out a large flour tortilla on a flat surface.
- In the center of the tortilla, layer the Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice, black beans, and cilantro lime chicken.
- Add a handful of shredded cheese and a spoonful each of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up from the bottom, tucking the bottom edge over the fillings and continuing to roll until it is fully wrapped.
- Repeat with additional tortillas and fillings as needed. The burritos can be served as is, or for an extra touch, they can be grilled on a skillet to toast the outside of the tortilla slightly. Serve with extra sour cream and salsa on the side.
