If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that is packed with flavor, this Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack is the perfect recipe to try. Combining the tangy sweetness of honey lime chicken with creamy avocado and fluffy rice, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will surely impress!
Why You’ll Love This Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and wholesome grains.
- Bursting with Flavor: A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Stacks can be made ahead for easy lunches or dinners.
Ingredients
For the Honey Lime Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Avocado Rice:
- 1 cup cooked jasmine or brown rice
- 1 large avocado, mashed
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
For Stacking & Garnishing:
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate and Cook the Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F/75°C).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Rice
- In a bowl, mix mashed avocado, cooked rice, lime juice, salt, garlic powder, and chopped cilantro.
- Stir well until evenly combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Stacks
- Using a food mold or simply stacking by hand, layer the avocado rice at the base of each plate.
- Top with sliced honey lime chicken.
- Garnish with diced cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges and enjoy!
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Tips for Success
- Use a Food Ring Mold: To achieve a restaurant-style stacked presentation, use a food ring mold.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store components separately and assemble just before eating.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. How long can I store leftovers?
Store the chicken, rice, and toppings separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any store-bought seasonings are certified gluten-free.
4. What can I use instead of avocado?
If you don’t have avocado, try using mashed roasted sweet potatoes or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
5. Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Grilling adds a smoky flavor. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side.
Final Thoughts: Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack
This Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner idea or an impressive meal to serve guests, this recipe delivers every time. Try it today and enjoy a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy goodness!
Read more: Best Smoky Maple Bacon Pancake Sliders with Honey Butter Drizzle
Print
Easy Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack is a vibrant and satisfying dish featuring juicy, marinated chicken, creamy avocado, and fluffy rice. The honey-lime marinade brings a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus, while the stacked presentation makes it visually stunning and perfect for any meal!
Ingredients
For the Honey Lime Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Rice:
- 1 cup cooked jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Avocado Layer:
- 1 large avocado, mashed
- ½ teaspoon lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Topping (Optional):
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese
- Lime wedges for garnish
- Extra cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Marinate & Cook the Chicken:
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice or dice into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Rice:
- In a bowl, mix the cooked rice with chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Prepare the Avocado Layer:
- Mash the avocado with lime juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Stack:
- Use a round food mold or a small cup to create layers.
- Start with a base of cilantro-lime rice, pressing it down gently.
- Add a layer of mashed avocado, smoothing it out.
- Top with sliced honey-lime chicken.
- Carefully lift the mold to reveal the stacked presentation.
Garnish & Serve:
- Top with diced cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta or cotija cheese.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
- Enjoy immediately!
Notes
- Swap white rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
- Add a drizzle of chipotle mayo for a smoky kick!
- Make it a bowl instead of a stack for easier serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Healthy Meal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 servings
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: honey lime chicken, avocado rice stack, healthy chicken recipe, fresh summer meals