Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack

Looking for a light, flavorful, and refreshing meal that’s perfect for warm weather? The Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is a vibrant dish that combines grilled honey lime chicken, cilantro rice, and fresh avocado in a delicious and healthy stack. This dish is full of bold flavors and makes for a quick and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is everything you want in a summer dish: fresh, healthy, and full of flavor. The honey-lime marinade gives the chicken a sweet and tangy kick, perfectly complemented by the creamy avocado and fragrant cilantro rice. The stack is not only visually appealing but also light and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal to impress your guests, this recipe is a winner that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Honey Lime Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice Stack:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (cooled slightly)

• 1 large ripe avocado, diced

• 1 tablespoon lime juice (for avocado)

• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish:

• Additional cilantro

• Lime wedges

• Optional: diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or a dollop of Greek yogurt

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

Directions

For the Honey Lime Chicken:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to let the flavors marinate.

3. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

For the Rice Stack:

1. Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.

2. Stir in the chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper, and set aside.

3. In a small bowl, toss the diced avocado with lime juice to prevent browning and keep it fresh.

To Assemble the Stack:

1. Start by spooning a scoop of cilantro rice onto the plate.

2. Top with the sliced honey lime chicken, followed by a few spoonfuls of the lime-coated avocado.

3. Repeat the layers to create a stacked effect.

4. Garnish with extra cilantro, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and any optional toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

Serve:

1. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour (including marinating)

• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Add a Kick: For a spicier twist, add diced jalapeños or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce.

• Grilled Veggies: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or onions to the stack for extra flavor and texture.

• Use Brown Rice: Swap jasmine or basmati rice with brown rice for a whole grain option that’s even more nutritious.

• Toppings: Top the stack with crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to store the rice and chicken separately from the avocado to prevent browning.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop, but enjoy the avocado fresh to preserve its texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on their size.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice, chicken, and avocado ahead of time and assemble the stack just before serving. Just be sure to toss the avocado with lime juice to keep it from browning.

Can I use a different grain for the rice stack?

Yes! Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used instead of traditional rice for a low-carb or gluten-free option.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes! If you prefer baking, place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with grilled tofu or seasoned black beans.

Conclusion

The Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is a light, vibrant, and healthy meal that’s perfect for warm weather. With juicy grilled chicken, fragrant cilantro rice, and creamy avocado, this dish delivers fresh, bold flavors that are sure to satisfy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch, this recipe is an easy and delicious choice that’s guaranteed to become a favorite!

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