Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack
A delicious dish featuring sweet and tangy honey-lime chicken layered over creamy avocados and fluffy rice, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Chicken breasts should be a uniform thickness for even cooking.
- 2 tablespoons honey Can adjust based on sweetness preference.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice Freshly squeezed is best.
- 1 pieces Zest of 1 lime Adds more lime flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Can adjust according to spice tolerance.
- 1 teaspoon cumin For added depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon paprika Adds a mild smokiness.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preferences.
For the Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) Fluff with fork before mixing.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice Adds freshness to the rice.
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro Use fresh cilantro for best results.
- to taste Salt Adjust to taste.
For the Avocado Layer
- 1-2 ripe avocados, mashed Choose ripe avocados for creaminess.
- ½ pieces lime juice Adds flavor and prevents browning.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust to taste.
For Garnish
- as needed Lime wedges For garnish.
- as needed Extra cilantro For garnish.
- to taste Cherry tomatoes, sliced (optional) For added color and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the cilantro, mince the garlic, and zest the lime.
Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine honey, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Allow to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes in the fridge.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts to the pan and sear them undisturbed for 2-3 minutes.
- Carefully flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes until the internal temperature reads 165°F.
Prepare the Rice
- Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in a tablespoon of lime juice and chopped cilantro, adding salt to taste.
Mash the Avocados
- In a separate bowl, mash the ripe avocados. Add the juice of half a lime, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth, but maintain a little texture.
Assemble the Stack
- Begin layering your ingredients: start with rice, followed by the mashed avocado, then sliced chicken on top.
Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with lime wedges, extra cilantro, and sliced cherry tomatoes. Serve immediately.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, ensure your spices and rice are gluten-free. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas. Quinoa can be a nutritious alternative to rice.