What To Serve With Cilantro Lime Chicken? 17 Tasty Side Dishes

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a zesty, flavorful main dish that boasts a delightful combination of fresh cilantro, zingy lime, and savory chicken. The vibrant, herbaceous flavors make it a versatile pairing with many side dishes, whether you're looking for something light and fresh or hearty and comforting.

In this post, I will guide you through 17 amazing side dishes that perfectly complement cilantro lime chicken to create a well-rounded, delicious meal.

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The best side dishes to serve with cilantro lime chicken include jasmine rice, brown rice and vegetables, quinoa, Israeli couscous, southern mash, steamed vegetables, polenta, black bean salad, corn on the cob, roasted sweet potatoes, grilled zucchini, pico de gallo, fried plantains, mango salad, avocado salad, and baked potatoes.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice, with its delicate floral aroma and soft, sticky texture, is an excellent side dish for cilantro lime chicken. It can absorb the chicken's flavorful juices, enhancing its taste. Plus, its subtle sweetness provides a beautiful contrast to the zesty, tangy chicken.

2. 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. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser that's always a hit at any dinner table.

3. Brown Rice and Vegetables

If you're after a nutritious and filling side, look no further than brown rice and vegetables. The nutty flavor of brown rice pairs wonderfully with the fresh, vibrant flavors of cilantro lime chicken, while the variety of vegetables adds color, texture, and extra nutrients to your meal.

4. Quinoa

Quinoa, a protein-packed grain, is another healthy side that goes well with cilantro lime chicken. Its light, fluffy texture and mildly nutty taste make it a versatile side dish. You can toss it with some fresh herbs, lime juice, and olive oil to echo the flavors of the chicken.

5. Israeli Couscous

Israeli couscous, with its unique pearl-like shape and chewy texture, makes a delightful side. Its neutral taste makes it a perfect canvas for absorbing the cilantro lime chicken's flavors. Toss it with some sautéed vegetables for an extra serving of nutrients.

6. Steamed Vegetables

Steamed vegetables are a light, healthy side dish that can balance out the flavors of cilantro lime chicken. Opt for colorful vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers for a vibrant mix. To elevate their flavor, drizzle with a little olive oil, squeeze of lime, and sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

7. Polenta

Polenta, with its creamy texture and slightly sweet taste, is another comforting side that pairs well with cilantro lime chicken. It's especially good at soaking up the chicken's flavorful juices. For an added depth of flavor, consider grilling slices of prepared polenta.

8. 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 to cilantro lime chicken. It adds a textural contrast and an extra burst of fresh flavor that perfectly complements the chicken.

9. Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a versatile side that's both delicious and fun to eat. It adds a hint of sweetness and a pleasant crunch to your meal. You can simply boil or grill it and slather with some butter and a sprinkle of cilantro for an added touch.

10. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes bring a touch of sweetness and a hearty texture to your cilantro lime chicken dinner. Their caramelized edges and soft interior make them a comforting and satisfying side dish.

11. Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini, with its slightly smoky flavor and tender texture, makes a lovely, low-carb side dish. You can 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.

12. Pico de Gallo

Pico de gallo is a fresh, vibrant salsa made with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It's a refreshing side dish that adds a burst of freshness and a bit of heat, perfect for complementing the zesty cilantro lime chicken.

13. Fried Plantains

Fried plantains, or tostones, 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.

14. 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 out the overall flavors.

15. Tomato and Avocado Salad

A simple tomato and avocado salad, dressed with a little lime juice and olive oil, is a delightful accompaniment to cilantro lime chicken. Its creamy, fresh flavors work perfectly with the zesty, herbaceous chicken.

16. Baked Potatoes

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

17. Stuffed Tomatoes

These elegant spinach and feta stuffed tomatoes add a touch of sophistication to your cilantro lime chicken dinner. The tanginess of the feta cheese and the earthiness of the spinach wonderfully complement the chicken's vibrant flavors.

Whether you're in the mood for a light, healthy side dish or something more comforting and hearty, these options will pair beautifully with your cilantro lime chicken. Enjoy your meal!

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