The honey lime chicken & avocado rice stack is a colorful, layered dish that brings together sweet, zesty, and creamy flavors in every bite. It’s one of those meals I love making when I want something that looks impressive but is actually really simple to pull together. The combination of juicy chicken, fluffy rice, creamy avocado, and fresh herbs creates a refreshing and hearty plate that's perfect for lunch or dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how balanced this dish is. The honey lime marinade gives the chicken a perfect sweet and tangy flavor, while the rice provides a neutral base that lets everything shine. The avocado adds creaminess, and fresh toppings like red onion and cilantro add a pop of flavor. It’s also easy to prep ahead and can be customized with whatever I have on hand. Whether I’m cooking for myself or entertaining guests, this one always hits the mark.
ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the chicken marinade:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Honey
- Fresh lime juice
- Soy sauce
- Minced garlic
- Grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper
For the rice:
- White rice
- Water or chicken broth
- Salt
For the stack and toppings:
- Ripe avocado, diced
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
directions
- I start by whisking together honey, lime juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Then I add the chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
- While the chicken marinates, I cook the rice by bringing water or broth to a boil, adding rice and salt, then simmering it covered until tender—usually about 15 minutes.
- Once the rice is done and the chicken is marinated, I heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- To assemble, I scoop a portion of rice onto a plate, layer on the cooked chicken, then top it with diced avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
- I like to serve it with lime wedges for a fresh squeeze just before eating.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour and 5 minutes
Variations
I sometimes swap the white rice for brown rice or even quinoa when I want something more wholesome. If I want a spicy version, I add a little chopped jalapeño or drizzle on hot sauce. A spoonful of Greek yogurt or a creamy lime dressing also makes a nice topping. I’ve even made this into a wrap or bowl when I want something more casual.
storage/reheating
I store the cooked components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the rice and chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop. I always add the avocado fresh when I’m ready to serve, since it doesn’t store well once cut.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, I’ve used boneless chicken thighs and they work great. They stay extra juicy and take on the marinade beautifully.
Can I make this ahead?
Definitely. I often marinate the chicken the night before and cook the rice in advance. Then I just cook the chicken and assemble the stacks when I’m ready.
Is this dish gluten-free?
As long as I use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, the recipe is gluten-free.
What can I use instead of avocado?
If I don’t have avocado, I sometimes use a dollop of Greek yogurt or a few slices of cucumber for a bit of coolness and texture.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
I toss the diced avocado in a little lime juice right after cutting it—it helps keep it fresh and green longer.
Conclusion
This honey lime chicken & avocado rice stack is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect when I want something light, vibrant, and satisfying. It’s easy to customize, great for meal prep, and always makes me feel like I’m eating something special—even on a weeknight.
Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion / American
Description
This honey lime chicken & avocado rice stack is a vibrant, layered dish packed with sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. Juicy marinated chicken, fluffy rice, ripe avocado, and fresh herbs come together for a delicious, gluten-free meal that's as beautiful as it is satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this honey lime chicken stack is easy, healthy, and full of zesty flair.
Ingredients
- For the chicken marinade:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Honey
- Fresh lime juice
- Soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari)
- Minced garlic
- Grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper
- For the rice:
- White rice
- Water or chicken broth
- Salt
- For the stack and toppings:
- Ripe avocado, diced
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
Instructions
- Whisk together honey, lime juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the rice by bringing water or broth to a boil. Add rice and salt, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until tender (about 15 minutes).
- In a hot skillet, cook the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- To assemble: layer rice on a plate, top with chicken, then add avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
- Garnish with lime wedges and serve immediately.
Notes
- Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber.
- Add jalapeño or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Greek yogurt or creamy lime dressing makes a great topping.
- Turn it into a bowl or wrap for a fun variation.
- Toss avocado in lime juice to prevent browning.
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