Why Make This Recipe
Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is a delicious and easy meal you can enjoy any day of the week. It combines the juicy flavors of marinated chicken with the refreshing taste of avocado and zesty lime. This dish is not only tasty but also healthy, making it great for families and friends. Plus, it is quick to prepare, which is perfect for busy evenings.
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
- Optional toppings: Extra chopped cilantro, Diced tomatoes, Crumbled cotija or feta cheese, Lime wedges
Directions
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix together honey, lime juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat it well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
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Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice and put it in a saucepan with water or broth. Bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender. Stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt. Set aside.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan on medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until it is golden and cooked through. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice or dice.
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Prepare Avocado Mixture: In a bowl, mix the diced avocado with lime juice and a pinch of salt.
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Assemble the Stacks: On each plate, layer a scoop of rice, a spoonful of the avocado mixture, and the sliced honey lime chicken on top. You can add any desired toppings.
How to Serve Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack
Serve the Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack warm. You can enjoy it as a main dish or serve it with a side salad. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and works well for gatherings.
How to Store Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken and rice can last for up to 3 days. Keep the avocado mixture separate to prevent browning, and use it within a day for the best flavor.
Tips to Make Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack
- For more flavor, let the chicken marinate longer.
- Use fresh limes for juice and zest for the best taste.
- If you want a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the avocado mixture.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding other veggies or swapping the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. You may also grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
2. What can I use instead of honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time. Just heat them up and assemble the stacks before serving.
