Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack Recipe
Introduction
This Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack is a fresh and flavorful dish that combines tender, honey-lime marinated chicken with creamy avocado and zesty rice. It’s a simple yet impressive meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp honey
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken, cubed
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- 1–2 ripe avocados, mashed
- Juice of ½ lime
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for 15–30 minutes.
- Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes. Stir and cook for 6–8 minutes more until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from heat and let rest.
- Step 3: Fluff the warm cooked rice with a fork. Stir in lime juice, a pinch of salt, and cilantro if using. Keep the rice warm.
- Step 4: In a bowl, mash the avocados with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix—you want a creamy texture with some chunks.
- Step 5: Using a ring mold or ramekin on a plate, layer the rice first, followed by the mashed avocado, then the cooked chicken. Press gently to compact the layers, then carefully lift the mold. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add chopped fresh jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Use brown rice to add more fiber and a nuttier flavor.
- Top with a drizzle of extra honey or a squeeze of fresh lime for added brightness before serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and rice separately in a skillet or microwave, then assemble with fresh mashed avocado to keep its creamy texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and cook the rice in advance. However, assemble the rice stack just before serving to keep the avocado fresh and avoid browning.
What can I use instead of a ring mold?
If you don’t have a ring mold or ramekin, you can carefully layer the ingredients using a small bowl or cup and then invert it onto the plate, or simply plate the components side by side.
PrintHoney Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack that combines zesty, sweet, and savory elements. Tender marinated chicken is seared to perfection and layered with creamy lime-infused mashed avocado and seasoned rice, creating a visually stunning and delicious layered dish perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes including marinating
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Fusion American with Latin influences
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 tbsp honey
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken, cubed
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Rice Layer
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Avocado Layer
- 1–2 ripe avocados, mashed
- Juice of ½ lime
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add cubed chicken and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to get a golden crust. Stir and continue cooking for another 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest briefly to retain its juices.
- Prepare the Rice: Fluff the warm cooked rice with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in lime juice, a pinch of salt, and chopped cilantro if using. Keep the rice warm until ready to assemble.
- Mash the Avocado: In a bowl, mash the ripe avocados together with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to retain some texture, creating a creamy yet slightly chunky avocado layer.
- Assemble the Stack: Position a ring mold or ramekin on your serving plate. Layer the lime-seasoned rice first, followed by the mashed avocado, and top with the cooked honey lime chicken. Press gently to compact layers, then carefully lift the mold to reveal the stacked presentation. Serve immediately for optimal freshness and flavor.
Notes
- For added freshness, garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge.
- Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and a healthier option.
- Adjust honey quantity to balance sweetness per your taste.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
Keywords: Honey Lime Chicken, Avocado Rice Stack, Layered Chicken Dish, Lime and Honey Marinade, Healthy Chicken Recipe, Easy Dinner Recipe
