Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans

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There’s something irresistible about the combination of cilantro and orange, bringing together a zesty, aromatic burst of freshness with the depth of savory flavors. This Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans recipe perfectly captures that harmony in a quick, easy-to-make dish that’s bursting with color and flavor. The crispy, golden-brown chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy cilantro orange sauce pairs beautifully with warm, fluffy rice and hearty black beans. To top it off, a fresh homemade salsa made from diced pineapple, mango, or avocado adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture that completes the meal.

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Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a casual get-together, this dish will surely impress your guests and leave them craving more. In just 30 minutes, you can create a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s sure to please any palate. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions that will guide you through making this vibrant and tasty meal.

Ingredients

Cilantro Orange Sauce:

• 1/4 – 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, grated
• Juice of 2 oranges (about 4–5 tablespoons juice) + a bit of zest
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons avocado oil
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

Chicken:

• 1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Wood or metal skewers (optional)

For Serving (Optional):

• One 8.8-ounce pouch pre-made yellow rice (or make your own!)
• One 14-ounce can refried or regular black beans
• 1–2 cups diced pineapple, mango, and/or avocado (optional)

Instructions

1. Soak the Skewers (if using wood skewers):
   • If you are using wood skewers, start soaking them in water for 20-30 minutes before you begin assembling the dish. This step helps prevent the skewers from burning during the broiling process.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
   • Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the Cilantro Orange Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, combine the cilantro, grated garlic, orange juice and zest, brown sugar, avocado oil, white vinegar, and salt.
   • Whisk the mixture until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is well-blended.
4. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Pour half of the cilantro orange sauce over the chicken. Toss the chicken to ensure each piece is evenly coated in the sauce. The citrus and cilantro will infuse the chicken with flavor.
   • Reserve the remaining half of the sauce for later, as it will be used to glaze the chicken after broiling and for mixing with the fruit salsa.
5. Skewer the Chicken (Optional):
   • If you’re using skewers, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Alternatively, you can skip this step and place the chicken directly on the baking sheet. Either way, the chicken will cook to golden perfection.
6. Prepare for Broiling:
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Preheat the broiler in your oven, ensuring the oven rack is positioned about 6 inches from the heating element.
   • If you’re using parchment paper, note that it may become brittle around the edges during broiling, but it should stay intact in the middle. If you’re unsure about using parchment paper, you can opt for aluminum foil instead.
7. Broil the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken (either skewered or directly on the baking sheet) under the broiler. Broil for about 12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has developed a beautiful golden-brown exterior. The high heat from the broiler gives the chicken a slight char and crispness, adding to the flavor.
8. Prepare the Fruit Salsa (Optional):
   • While the chicken is broiling, take the reserved cilantro orange sauce and mix it with diced pineapple, mango, and/or avocado to create a sweet and savory salsa. The combination of juicy fruits with the tangy sauce will provide a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
9. Glaze the Chicken:
   • Once the chicken is broiled and golden brown, brush it with the remaining cilantro orange sauce. This will give the chicken an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the citrusy and garlicky notes.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Serve the Cilantro Orange Chicken with your choice of sides. Pair it with pre-made yellow rice (or homemade yellow rice), refried black beans, and the fresh fruit salsa. The rice soaks up the sauce from the chicken, while the beans add a creamy, hearty element to the dish.
    • For an extra touch, you can garnish with additional cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness.

Flavor Profile and Textures

The Cilantro Orange Chicken is the star of the dish, featuring tender pieces of chicken coated in a flavorful cilantro orange sauce that offers a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and umami. The broiling process gives the chicken a crispy, golden-brown exterior while maintaining a moist interior. As you take a bite, you’ll experience the contrasting textures of the crispy outer layer and the juicy, tender chicken.

The rice acts as a comforting base, absorbing all the savory juices from the chicken. The beans add richness and a creamy texture, making the dish hearty and satisfying. The fruit salsa brings a refreshing sweetness and a bit of acidity, creating a delightful balance between the savory chicken and the juicy fruits.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, you can substitute with boneless chicken breasts if preferred. Keep in mind that breasts tend to be leaner and may dry out more quickly, so be mindful of cooking time.
• Rice: The pre-made yellow rice is a convenient option, but you can make your own rice from scratch. You can also try substituting with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb variation.
• Beans: Black beans or refried beans are great choices, but feel free to experiment with pinto beans or kidney beans for a different flavor.
• Fruit Salsa: The fruit salsa is highly customizable. You can mix and match your favorite fruits, such as papaya, peaches, or even tomatoes for a savory twist. A squeeze of lime juice will brighten up the flavors even more.

Serving Suggestions

• For a more vibrant presentation: Garnish the dish with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
• For extra richness: Top the chicken with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
• For a complete meal: Serve this dish with a side of grilled vegetables or a simple green salad to add freshness and balance.

Conclusion

Conclusion

Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors and easy-to-love comfort. The bright, citrusy kick of the orange and cilantro sauce wraps the crispy chicken in a tangy embrace, making every bite burst with boldness. Paired with the warm, savory rice and beans, it’s the perfect combination of textures—crispy, juicy, tender, and creamy—all in one bite. And then there’s the optional fruit salsa: a refreshing contrast that adds sweetness and a delightful crunch, taking the dish to the next level of flavor.

This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it to a busy family or hosting a casual gathering with friends. It’s quick to make yet packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for those looking to prepare something fresh, tasty, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s highly customizable—feel free to swap out ingredients, try different sides, or add your own twist to the salsa.

Not only does this dish provide a balanced meal, but its bright, colorful presentation is bound to impress guests, making it an excellent option for dinner parties or special occasions. The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors will transport you to a tropical destination, leaving you craving more long after the last bite.

So, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your loved ones, or a group of friends, this Cilantro Orange Chicken with Rice and Beans is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion—so grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy a meal that will leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds!