Lime Cilantro Rice with Grilled Chicken

 

Lime Cilantro Rice with Grilled Chicken

### **Mise en Place**

| Component | Ingredients | Prep Requirement |

| :--- | :--- | :--- |

| **Grains** | 1.5 cups Basmati Rice | Rinsed until water runs clear |

| **Protein** | 1 lb Chicken Breast | Butterflied for even grilling |

| **Herb Base** | 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro | Finely minced (including tender stems) |

| **Citrus** | 2-3 Limes | Zested and juiced |

| **Aromatics** | Garlic, Onion | Minced garlic; finely diced white onion |

| **Liquid** | Chicken Stock | Low-sodium for salt control |

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### **Technical Component Matrix: Lime-Cilantro Finishing**

To prevent the rice from becoming gummy, avoid adding the lime juice until the rice has been fluffed and cooled slightly (approx. **60°C**).

* **1/2 cup** Fresh Cilantro, minced

* **3 tbsp** Fresh Lime Juice

* **1 tbsp** Lime Zest

* **1 tbsp** Extra Virgin Olive Oil

* **1/2 tsp** Sea Salt (adjust to taste)

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### **Step-by-Step Execution**

1. **Chicken Preparation:** Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of cumin for at least **30 minutes**.

2. **Rice Infusion:** Sauté the onion and garlic in a pot with a little oil until translucent. Add the rinsed rice and "toast" for **2 minutes** until the grains are fragrant and slightly opaque.

3. **Absorption Method:** Add the chicken stock (1.5:1 ratio). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Cover and cook for **15 minutes**. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for **5 minutes**.

4. **The Sear:** Grill the chicken over medium-high heat (**200°C**) for **5–6 minutes** per side. Ensure a deep golden-brown char. Let the meat rest for **5 minutes** before slicing against the grain.

5. **The Emulsion:** While the rice is resting, whisk the cilantro, lime juice, zest, and oil together.

6. **Assembly:** Fluff the rice with a fork and gently fold in the lime-cilantro mixture. The oil in the mixture will help keep the grains distinct and glossy.

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### **Variations**

* **Nutty Crunch:** Fold in toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) for a textural contrast.

* **Creamy Counter:** Serve with a side of charred corn and a dollop of Greek yogurt or crema.

* **Spice Infusion:** Add a finely diced jalapeño (seeds removed) to the onion and garlic sauté for a subtle heat.