6 Quick & Easy Main Dish Ideas to Pair With Cilantro Lime Rice

If there’s one side dish that can charm the socks off a dinner crowd, it’s Cilantro Lime Rice. Fluffy, citrusy, and just a little fancy, it’s the culinary equivalent of that friend who gets along with absolutely everyone. But once you’ve perfected the rice, the next question is always: what’s for the main dish?

Good news! I’ve rounded up six quick and easy mains that don’t just play nice with cilantro lime rice—they practically insist on sharing the plate. And bonus? They’re all weeknight-friendly, low-stress, and big on flavor.

1. Country Style Pork Tacos

Let’s start strong with tacos (because when is that not the right move?). These Country-Style Pork Tacos are juicy, a little smoky, and begging for a bed of zesty cilantro lime rice. Add a sprinkle of queso fresco and maybe a squeeze of lime and you’ve just turned your Tuesday into a fiesta.

2. Mexican Stuffed Shells

Pasta night just got a spicy upgrade. Picture jumbo pasta shells filled with seasoned beef and gooey cheese, baked in enchilada sauce. Serve these Mexican Stuffed Shells alongside a scoop of cilantro lime rice for a Tex-Mex twist that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with plain old spaghetti.

3. Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

Juicy strips of chicken and colorful peppers roast together on a single sheet pan while you kick back and let the oven do the work. A quick squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cilantro at the end makes these easy fajitas bright, fresh, and weeknight-ready—without a sink full of dishes.

4. Baja Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

These Baja Shrimp Tacos are basically summer vacation in handheld form. Crispy shrimp, a tangy slaw, and maybe a drizzle of creamy sauce—it’s the kind of dinner that makes you want to eat barefoot on the patio. Cilantro lime rice rounds it out with a cool, refreshing finish.

5. Shredded Beef Tacos

Tender, slow-cooked beef bursting with rich, savory spices, served alongside a generous scoop of zesty cilantro lime rice. Yes, please! Add fresh pico de gallo or your favorite toppings for a hearty, comforting dinner everyone will love.

6. Chicken Ranch Tacos

Juicy, seasoned chicken tossed with creamy ranch and topped with crisp, fresh ingredients. These Chicken Ranch Tacos are a quick, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a simple, satisfying dinner.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Rice is basically the extrovert of side dishes—it makes friends everywhere it goes. From shrimp to slow-cooked beef, these mains prove that pairing it is less about rules and more about whatever makes your taste buds happy. So whip up that rice and let dinner practically plan itself—your only real job is to grab the extra limes for garnish.