Why Make This Recipe
Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is a delicious and healthy dish perfect for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of sweet honey, zesty lime, and creamy avocado makes this dish flavorful and refreshing. It’s also a great way to enjoy protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. This recipe is simple to prepare and can be easily adjusted to fit your taste preferences.
How to Make Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tablespoons honey
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- Salt, to taste
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Pinch of salt
- Extra chopped cilantro (optional)
- Diced tomatoes (optional)
- Crumbled cotija or feta cheese (optional)
- Lime wedges (optional)
Directions:
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
- Rinse rice and place it in a saucepan with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until tender. Stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt. Set aside.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice or dice.
- In a bowl, toss diced avocado with lime juice and a pinch of salt.
- On each plate, layer a scoop of rice, a spoonful of avocado, and sliced honey lime chicken on top. Garnish with desired toppings.
How to Serve Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack
Serve the Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack warm. You can add toppings like extra chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or crumbled cotija cheese for added flavor. Lime wedges are a nice touch for those who enjoy a little extra zing.
How to Store Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack
To store leftovers, place the chicken, rice, and avocado in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the avocado separate until you’re ready to serve, to prevent it from browning. Consume within 2-3 days for the best quality.
Tips to Make Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack
- Let the chicken marinate for longer if you can—up to 4 hours enhances the flavor.
- For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of using a skillet.
- Adjust the lime and honey levels to your taste to make it sweeter or zippier.
Variation
You can add black beans or corn for an extra flavor boost and more texture. Substituting quinoa for rice is a great gluten-free option.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great option and will add more flavor due to their higher fat content.
2. What can I use instead of lime?
If you don’t have lime, you can use lemon as a substitute. It will give a different but still tasty flavor.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time, but it’s best to add the avocado fresh right before serving.
