If you’re searching for a dish that beautifully combines juicy grilled chicken with the creamy richness of avocado on a bed of fragrant rice, look no further. The Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is a stellar combination that not only tastes amazing but also looks visually appealing on any dinner table. With a simplicity that’s hard to match, this recipe brings together just a handful of ingredients to create a vibrant, flavorful stack that will leave an impression on family and friends alike.
One of the standout features of this dish is the marinade, which infuses the chicken with a sweet and tangy flavor, thanks to the honey and lime juice. The addition of garlic and cumin rounds out the taste, giving it a depth that enhances the overall dish. Paired with zesty, creamy avocado and a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, this recipe offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The ease of preparation makes it perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend dinner party.
Not only is this Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Each component brings its unique health benefits, from lean protein in the chicken to healthy fats in the avocado, as well as fiber-rich rice and fresh veggies. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how you can prepare it at home!
Why You’ll Love This Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack
- Flavorful & Zesty: The marinade gives the chicken a sweet and tangy taste that’s perfect for summer grilling.
- Colorful Presentation: Layers of vibrant ingredients create an eye-catching stack, making it a showstopper on your dinner table.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.
- Quick Preparation: With a total cook time of just over an hour, it’s a great choice for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable for different dietary preferences by swapping proteins or grains.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delicious dish, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the right tools for success. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized to facilitate a smooth cooking process. You will need the following tools:
- A large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken.
- A whisk to combine the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
- A grill or a frying pan to cook the chicken; both methods yield excellent results.
- A saucepan for cooking jasmine rice. Ensure it’s a size that allows for proper simmering.
- A sharp knife and cutting board for slicing the avocado and chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup honey
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine the honey, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, ground cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended. This flavorful marinade is essential for infusing the chicken with a sweet and savory profile, setting the stage for a delicious dish.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breast in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. Allowing the chicken to marinate will ensure it absorbs all the wonderful flavors of the honey, lime, and spices.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
While the chicken marinates, it’s time to prepare the jasmine rice. Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, which helps to remove excess starch for a fluffier texture. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or a pan over medium-high heat. Carefully remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off before placing it onto the grill or pan. Sear the chicken for approximately 6–7 minutes on each side, or until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Step 5: Make the Avocado Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, cilantro, and a tablespoon of olive oil. Gently fold the ingredients together to avoid mashing the avocado too much. This mixture will add a creamy and fresh element to the stack, perfectly balancing the grilled chicken and rice.
Step 6: Assemble the Stack
To serve, layer a portion of the cooked rice on each plate. Place the sliced grilled chicken atop the rice, then spoon on the avocado mixture generously. Garnish with lime wedges and additional fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. This layered presentation makes for an impressive and satisfying meal!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a delicious seafood or vegetarian twist.
- Vegetables: Add colorful bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the avocado mix for extra flavor and texture.
- Spices: Incorporate chili powder or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
Cooking Notes
- Be sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor; bottled juice may alter the taste.
- Adjust the avocado mixture according to your taste preferences; consider adding diced tomatoes for a fresh touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm stack.
- Serve with tortilla chips and salsa for a complete fiesta-themed meal.
Tips
- Ensure your grill is hot before placing the chicken to achieve grill marks and flavor.
- Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- Keep leftover avocado mix in an airtight container to prevent browning; store it in the refrigerator and use within a day.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
- Protein: 27g
- Sodium: 350mg
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, while jasmine rice works beautifully for this recipe, you can also use basmati rice or brown rice. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the chicken with tofu and the honey with agave syrup. This will ensure you’re still enjoying a hearty and delicious meal.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and cook the rice in advance. Assemble the stacks just before serving to maintain freshness.
What can I use for garnishing besides cilantro?
Fresh parsley or scallions can be excellent alternatives to cilantro for garnishing and adding a fresh touch.
Conclusion
The Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. With easy preparation and an impressive presentation, it’s a fantastic addition to any meal rotation. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a quick dinner option, this recipe checks all the boxes for flavor, nutrition, and visual appeal. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and any creative twists you come up with in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delicious combination of juicy grilled chicken and creamy avocado layered over fragrant jasmine rice.
Ingredients
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup honey
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the honey, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, ground cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended.
- Place the chicken breast in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- While the chicken marinates, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil, stir in the rinsed rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6–7 minutes on each side.
- In a separate bowl, combine diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, and olive oil. Gently fold together.
- To serve, layer cooked rice on each plate, add sliced chicken, and top with the avocado mixture. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.
Notes
Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor. Use fresh lime juice for the best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Protein: 27 g