Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack

This Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is a flavorful and fresh meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep. With tender, juicy chicken marinated in a sweet and zesty honey-lime mixture, and paired with a refreshing avocado and cilantro rice, every bite is bursting with deliciousness. This dish can be customized with your favorite toppings, making it a crowd-pleasing meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines savory, tangy, and creamy elements in one dish. The honey lime chicken has a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, while the avocado rice adds a refreshing, creamy texture. The dish is versatile, allowing you to add your favorite toppings like cilantro, feta, or tomatoes. Whether you’re preparing a meal for the family or serving it for guests, this stack is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be tailored to your personal taste preferences.

Ingredients

Chicken:

• 1½ lbs chicken breasts or thighs

• 3 tbsp honey

• Juice + zest of 2 limes

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & black pepper

Rice:

• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice

• 2 cups water or chicken broth

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro

• Salt to taste

Avocado Layer:

• 2 ripe avocados, diced

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped cilantro

• Diced tomatoes

• Crumbled feta or cotija

• Lime wedges

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine the honey, lime juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined.

2. Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the marinade, coating them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).

3. While the chicken marinates, prepare the rice. In a medium pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in lime juice, cilantro, and salt to taste.

4. In a small bowl, combine the diced avocados with lime juice and a pinch of salt. Gently mix and set aside.

5. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is fully cooked.

6. Slice the cooked chicken into strips.

7. To assemble the stack, layer the rice, followed by the sliced chicken, and then top with the avocado mixture. Add any optional toppings you prefer, such as cilantro, tomatoes, feta, or lime wedges.

8. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes (excluding marinating time)

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Substitutes: If you prefer, you can use shrimp or tofu as a substitute for the chicken. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

• Rice Options: You can swap out jasmine or basmati rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.

• Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of water or broth to the rice to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator before marinating for better flavor absorption.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance, and the rice can be cooked ahead and stored in the fridge. Just assemble everything when you’re ready to serve.

3. How do I prevent the avocados from turning brown?

Add lime juice to the diced avocados to help prevent browning. You can also cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container.

4. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! You can add a pinch of chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade or sprinkle some hot sauce over the assembled stack for a spicy kick.

5. Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely! While jasmine or basmati rice works well, you can substitute with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

6. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu for a plant-based version. You can also add beans or lentils for extra protein.

7. Can I use a different type of oil for the marinade?

Yes, you can use avocado oil or canola oil instead of olive oil. However, olive oil does add a nice flavor.

8. What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, grilled vegetables, or a simple salsa. You could also serve it with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.

9. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check the ingredients in the broth and other packaged items for any gluten content.

10. Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a pan?

Yes, grilling the chicken adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Just be sure to preheat your grill and cook the chicken over medium-high heat for the same time as the pan method.

Conclusion

The Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is a delightful and satisfying meal that combines vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. With its versatility in toppings and substitutions, it’s a dish you can customize to your taste. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit!