Delicious Sides to Pair with Cilantro Lime Chicken: Complete Guide

Are you staring at your perfectly cooked cilantro lime chicken and wondering what to serve alongside it? You’re not alone! This zesty, tangy main dish deserves the perfect companions to create a memorable meal. I’ve been making cilantro lime chicken almost weekly, and over time I’ve discovered some amazing side dishes that complement its bright flavors perfectly.

In this article, I’ll share my favorite sides to pair with cilantro lime chicken, from rice dishes to veggies to salads that’ll make your dinner complete. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh or hearty and comforting, I’ve got you covered!

What Makes Cilantro Lime Chicken Special?

Before diving into the side dishes, let’s quickly appreciate what we’re working with. Cilantro lime chicken is a vibrant, Southwest-inspired dish featuring the bright flavors of fresh cilantro and zingy lime. It’s typically marinated in cilantro-lime dressing (I love Briannas Creamy Cilantro Lime), then baked until the chicken is perfectly cooked and the dressing creates a delicious sauce.

The beauty of this dish is that it only requires two main ingredients but delivers incredible flavor. The tangy, herbaceous profile makes it versatile enough to pair with many different sides

Best Rice and Grain Sides for Cilantro Lime Chicken

1. Cilantro Lime Rice

This is my absolute go-to side dish! The flavors echo the chicken perfectly, creating a harmonious meal. The bright, zesty flavors of the rice complement the tangy chicken beautifully.

Quick Recipe Cook jasmine rice according to package directions. Once done, fluff with a fork and stir in chopped fresh cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, and a touch of salt

2. Jasmine Rice

The delicate floral aroma and soft, sticky texture of jasmine rice make it an excellent canvas for absorbing the flavorful juices from your cilantro lime chicken. Its subtle sweetness provides a lovely contrast to the zesty, tangy chicken.

3. Brown Rice with Vegetables

For a nutritious and filling option, brown rice mixed with sautéed vegetables is perfect. The nutty flavor of brown rice pairs wonderfully with the fresh, vibrant flavors of cilantro lime chicken Plus, you get extra nutrients from the veggies!

4. Quinoa

This protein-packed grain offers a light, fluffy texture and mildly nutty taste that works beautifully with cilantro lime chicken. Try tossing it with some fresh herbs, lime juice, and olive oil to echo the flavors of the chicken.

5. Israeli Couscous

With its unique pearl-like shape and chewy texture, Israeli couscous makes a delightful side. Its neutral taste absorbs the cilantro lime chicken’s flavors wonderfully. Toss it with some sautéed vegetables for extra color and nutrition.

6. Vegetable Fried Rice

A satisfying and hearty side dish that goes well with cilantro lime chicken. The nutty flavor and chewy texture of the rice pair well with the zesty and tangy taste of the chicken, and the added vegetables make it a complete meal.

Potato and Vegetable Sides

7. Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

These crispy, savory potatoes are a perfect counterpoint to the tangy cilantro lime chicken. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor and creates a crispy crust that’s irresistible.

Quick Recipe: Cube potatoes, toss with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan. Roast at 425°F until golden and crispy (about 25-30 minutes).

8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes bring a touch of sweetness and a hearty texture to your dinner. Their caramelized edges and soft interior make them a comforting and satisfying side dish that balances the tangy chicken perfectly.

9. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

I love serving this with cilantro lime chicken! The savory and salty flavor of the parmesan cheese complements the tangy and refreshing taste of the chicken. Roasting brings out broccoli’s natural sweetness and enhances its texture.

10. Grilled Zucchini

With its slightly smoky flavor and tender texture, grilled zucchini makes a lovely, low-carb side dish. Slice it lengthwise for grilling, then finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime to tie in with the chicken’s flavor.

11. Steamed Vegetables

For a light, healthy option, steamed vegetables balance out the flavors of cilantro lime chicken beautifully. Opt for colorful veggies like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, and drizzle with a little olive oil and a squeeze of lime.

12. Corn on the Cob

This versatile side adds a hint of sweetness and a pleasant crunch. Simply boil or grill it and slather with butter and a sprinkle of cilantro for an added touch that ties in with your main dish.

Creamy and Comforting Sides

13. Southern Mash

For something heartier and comforting, southern mash is a great choice. Its creamy, buttery flavor and smooth texture create a lovely contrast with the tangy, zesty chicken.

14. Creamed Corn with Bacon

This decadent side dish pairs perfectly with cilantro lime chicken. The creamed corn is rich, buttery, and creamy, with bits of smoky bacon that add depth. The sweetness of the corn balances the tangy flavors of the chicken.

15. Polenta with Parmesan Cheese

This rich and indulgent side dish will elevate your cilantro lime chicken meal. The creamy and cheesy texture of the polenta complements the zesty and tangy taste of the chicken beautifully.

16. Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

For a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, creamy mashed cauliflower is perfect. Its velvety texture complements the tangy chicken, and it’s made with cauliflower, butter, and cream cheese for a luxurious taste without all the carbs.

Fresh and Vibrant Salad Options

17. Black Bean Salad

For a Latin American twist, a refreshing black bean salad with corn, tomatoes, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing makes a wonderful accompaniment. It adds textural contrast and an extra burst of fresh flavor.

18. Mango Salad

A refreshing mango salad adds a tropical twist to your meal. The mango’s sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tangy, zesty chicken, while the salad’s freshness helps balance the overall flavors.

19. Tomato and Avocado Salad

This simple salad dressed with lime juice and olive oil is a delightful accompaniment. Its creamy, fresh flavors work perfectly with the zesty, herbaceous chicken.

20. Avocado Quinoa Salad

If you’re looking for a lighter option that’s still filling, try an avocado quinoa salad. The creaminess of the avocado and the earthiness of the quinoa make for a satisfying side dish that balances the bold flavors of the chicken.

21. Fresh Green Salad

Sometimes simplicity is best! A crisp green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers brings a refreshing element to your meal. Add some avocado or feta cheese for extra flavor, and dress it with a simple vinaigrette or lime juice.

Other Creative Side Options

22. Pico de Gallo

This fresh, vibrant salsa made with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds a burst of freshness and a bit of heat, perfectly complementing the zesty chicken.

23. Fried Plantains

Fried plantains bring a Caribbean flair to your meal. Their sweet, slightly caramelized flavor and crispy texture offer a lovely contrast to the tangy, savory cilantro lime chicken.

24. Stuffed Tomatoes

For an elegant side, try spinach and feta stuffed tomatoes. The tanginess of the feta cheese and the earthiness of the spinach wonderfully complement the chicken’s vibrant flavors.

25. Baked Potatoes

A classic side, baked potatoes with their crispy skin and fluffy interior can be a hearty addition to your meal. Serve with butter or, for a healthier version, top with Greek yogurt and chopped fresh chives.

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken for a Complete Meal

My favorite way to enjoy cilantro lime chicken is in a taco bowl setup. I pile rice (coconut lime rice is amazing for doubling down on those flavors!), lettuce, black beans, tomatoes, salsa, and jalapeños into a bowl and top it with the chicken.

Here are some other great serving ideas:

• Taco Night: Slice the chicken and serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings
• Over Rice: Serve the chicken over jasmine or cilantro lime rice with the pan sauce drizzled on top
• With Spanish Rice and a Side Salad: For a complete, balanced meal
• In a Burrito Bowl: Similar to the taco bowl idea, but wrapped up for on-the-go eating

Making the Perfect 2-Ingredient Cilantro Lime Chicken

While we’re focusing on side dishes, let me quickly share how I make my go-to cilantro lime chicken. It’s super simple but packed with flavor:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 pounds)
• 1/2 cup store-bought cilantro-lime dressing (Briannas Creamy Cilantro Lime is my fave)
• Optional: fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Add chicken to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour dressing over and toss to coat.
2. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 3 hours).
3. Preheat oven to 425°F. Bake uncovered until chicken reaches 165°F (about 30 minutes).
4. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve with lime wedges if desired.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro lime chicken is such a versatile main dish that pairs well with countless sides. Whether you prefer something light and fresh like a mango salad, or something more substantial like roasted potatoes or rice, there’s a perfect side dish for every preference.

I personally rotate between cilantro lime rice, roasted sweet potatoes, and avocado salad as my go-to sides. Don’t be afraid to mix and match based on what you have in your pantry or what’s in season!

What’s your favorite side to serve with cilantro lime chicken? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments! Happy cooking!