Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzling sound of chicken grilling is my favorite way to unwind after a long day—add a splash of honey-lime magic, and you’ve got a quick dinner that feels like a celebration! Today, I’m sharing my delightful Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack, a dish that not only bursts with zesty flavors but is also a fantastic healthy choice. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home chef, this recipe comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Picture layers of marinated chicken resting on fluffy jasmine rice, topped with a creamy avocado mix—it’s not just a meal; it’s a colorful and comforting experience. Are you ready to stack your plate with this wholesome delight? Why is this Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack special? Bold flavors: The zesty combination of honey and lime elevates simple ingredients into a vibrant dish bursting with taste. Quick to prepare: Ready in about an hour, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special without being time-consuming. Versatile: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist, making it adaptable for various dietary preferences. Nutrient-rich: Each serving is a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbs to keep you satisfied. Crowd-pleaser: Whether serving family or friends, this dish is sure to delight with its colorful presentation and delicious flavor. Don’t forget to check out our Broccoli Chicken Penne for another quick weeknight option! Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack Ingredients • To create this vibrant Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack, gather the following wholesome ingredients: For the Chicken Marinade Boneless skinless chicken breasts – The heart of the dish, providing protein; use tofu for a vegetarian alternative. Honey – Natural sweetener that adds gloss and flavor; maple syrup can work as a substitute. Juice of 2 limes – Provides acidity and brightness; lemon juice can be a substitute if limes are unavailable. Zest of 1 lime – Enhances citrus flavor and aroma; can use lemon zest as a substitute. Minced garlic – Adds depth and flavor; garlic powder is an alternative if fresh garlic is not on hand. Ground cumin – Brings warm, earthy notes; chili powder can be used for a different flavor profile. Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to preference. For the Rice Base Jasmine rice – Serves as a fragrant base; basmati or brown rice can be used as alternatives. Chicken broth (2 cups) – Cooked with rice for added flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option. For the Avocado Mixture Diced avocado – Provides creaminess and richness; can swap with guacamole for a ready-made alternative. Red onion (finely chopped) – Adds crunch and sharpness; green onions can provide a milder flavor. Chopped fresh cilantro – Adds freshness and color; parsley can be used for a different herb flavor. Olive oil (1 tablespoon) – Binds the avocado mixture and adds richness; any neutral oil can suffice. For Serving Lime wedges – Adds brightness at serving; use lemon wedges as an alternative. Now, let’s stack up those delicious layers and create a delightful dining experience with this Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until uniform. Place boneless skinless chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over them, ensuring they’re well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let them marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes up to 2 hours to infuse the flavors. Step 2: Prepare the Rice Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, stir in the rinsed rice, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to low, simmering for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Step 3: Grill the Chicken Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. Step 4: Prepare Avocado Mixture In a medium mixing bowl, combine diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, chopped fresh cilantro, and olive oil. Gently toss the ingredients together until evenly mixed, being careful not to mash the avocado. This creamy avocado mixture will add both flavor and richness to your Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack. Step 5: Assemble the Stack To build your Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack, start by placing a generous layer of the cooked jasmine rice at the bottom of a serving dish or individual plates. Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on top of the rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Finally, spoon the creamy avocado mixture over the chicken, allowing the colors to shine through in this vibrant dish. Step 6: Serve Garnish your Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack with fresh lime wedges and additional chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately while everything is warm, and watch as your family or guests enjoy this delightful meal bursting with zesty flavors and satisfying textures. Variations & Substitutions Looking to personalize your Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack? Dive into these delicious variations and substitutions! Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a succulent seafood twist that cooks in minutes and pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors. Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: For a healthier alternative, use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice. Both add a nutritious base while keeping the flavors vibrant! Herb Haven: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or basil in the avocado mixture for a refreshing new dimension—perfect for summer gatherings. The herbaceous notes can truly elevate this dish! Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or chili flakes to the avocado mix if you’re in the mood for a little heat. It adds an exciting kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweet honey-lime chicken. Vegetable Boost: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or corn into the rice for added color and flavor. This not only enhances the texture but also makes the meal more visually appealing. Dairy Addition: Crumble some feta cheese over the avocado mixture for an extra creamy and tangy bite. It creates a delightful contrast that complements the sweet and zesty components. Garnish Variety: Instead of lime wedges, serve with a mango salsa on top of the stacks for a fruity twist. This sumptuous garnish will introduce a whole new flavor palette! Easy Tortilla Tacos: Turn this stack into taco form! Serve the marinated chicken and avocado mix in corn tortillas for a fun twist and a hands-on meal experience. With these variations, you can tailor each meal to your taste as you enjoy the delightful taste of your Savory Chicken Flatbread or other delicious options like Garlic Butter Chicken and keep the joy of home cooking alive! How to Store and Freeze Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack Fridge: Store leftover Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep components like the avocado mixture separate to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Cooked rice can also be frozen in portions; just remember to cool it first. Reheating: Thaw any frozen chicken in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven or skillet until warmed through. Rice can be reheated in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture. Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the chicken marinade and rice a day in advance for even quicker assembly during busy nights! What to Serve with Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack Elevate your meal experience with complementary sides and drinks that celebrate the vibrant flavors of this dish. Crispy Green Salad: A light mix of greens and cucumbers adds crunch and freshness, perfectly balancing the richness of avocado. Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers and zucchini enhance the BBQ flavor of the chicken while providing a colorful medley on your plate. Zesty Coleslaw: The tangy crunch from a lime-infused coleslaw offers contrast and brings out the citrus notes in the chicken. Spicy Black Beans: Hearty and flavorful, they are packed with protein and pair well with the honey lime scheme, adding a satisfying depth. For a refreshing conclusion, consider serving a light dessert or drink. Chilled Fruit Salad: An assortment of tropical fruits can beautifully cleanse the palate, offering a sweet finish to the meal. Margaritas: A zesty lime margarita enhances the meal’s flavors, creating a delightful, party-like atmosphere at your table. Frozen Yogurt: Creamy, tangy, and refreshing, top it with berries to echo the color theme of your Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack for a delightful end! Make Ahead Options These Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stacks are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those zesty flavors to infuse beautifully. The cooked jasmine rice can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently before serving. For the avocado mixture, prep it just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant—tossing in a splash of lime juice will help prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the marinated chicken and stack the rice and avocado mix on top for a delicious, time-saving weeknight meal that feels special! Expert Tips for Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack Marination Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for stronger flavor penetration and tenderness. Rice Rinsing: Rinse the jasmine rice well before cooking to achieve fluffiness; this helps remove excess starch that can make it sticky. Perfect Grill Marks: Preheat your grill for a few minutes to get those perfect grill marks and maintain juiciness in your chicken. Avoid Avocado Oxidation: To keep the avocado mixture vibrant, add a splash of lime juice before mixing to prevent browning. Layering Love: Assemble this Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack just before serving for optimal presentation; the vibrant colors will shine fresh on the plate! Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for the Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack? Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish due to their tenderness and ability to absorb the honey lime marinade. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, tofu works wonderfully as well—just marinate it in the same flavorful mixture! How should I store leftovers from the Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack? Very! Store your leftover Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the avocado fresh, it’s best to store the avocado mixture separately and assemble the dish shortly before serving. Can I freeze any components of the Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack? Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated chicken in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cooked rice can also be frozen in portions—just ensure it cools completely before placing it in the freezer. For reheating, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge and heat it in the oven or skillet, while the rice can be warmed in the microwave with a splash of water to retain moisture. What can I do if my avocado mixture turns brown before serving? I often add a splash of lime juice to the avocado mixture, which not only adds brightness but also helps to prevent it from browning. If you notice any darkening, you can gently mix in a little more lime juice or simply toss in a bit of fresh cilantro before serving to freshen it up! Are there any dietary considerations for the Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack? Yes! If you have guests with allergies, it’s worth noting that honey can be substituted with agave syrup for a vegan option. Moreover, make sure to check for any allergies to lime or cilantro, as these ingredients are prominent in the dish. If you’re cooking for pets, ensure that you keep the marinated chicken separate, as certain spices and seasonings may not be safe for them. Zesty Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack for a Fresh Dinner Delight Enjoy this Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack, bursting with zesty flavors and healthy ingredients for a delightful dinner experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsMarination Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 2 hours hrs Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Marinade1 pound Boneless skinless chicken breasts Tofu can be used for a vegetarian option.3 tablespoons Honey Maple syrup can be used as a substitute.2 tablespoons Juice of limes Lemon juice can be an alternative.1 teaspoon Zest of lime Lemon zest can be used as a substitute.2 cloves Minced garlic Garlic powder is an alternative.1 teaspoon Ground cumin Chili powder can be used for a different flavor profile.to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.For the Rice Base1 cup Jasmine rice Basmati or brown rice can be substitutions.2 cups Chicken broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.For the Avocado Mixture2 large Diced avocado Guacamole can be used as an alternative.1/4 cup Red onion Finely chopped, green onions can be a milder alternative.1/4 cup Chopped fresh cilantro Parsley can be used as a different herb.1 tablespoon Olive oil Any neutral oil can suffice.For Serving2 wedge Lime Use lemon wedges as an alternative. Equipment GrillMixing bowlSaucepanServing Dish Method InstructionsIn a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until uniform. Marinate chicken in the mixture for 30 minutes to 2 hours.Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until clear. Boil chicken broth in a saucepan, add rice, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, until cooked through. Let rest and slice.In a bowl, mix diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, and olive oil until combined but not mashed.In a serving dish, layer rice, add sliced chicken, and finish with the creamy avocado mixture on top.Garnish with lime wedges and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 12mg NotesAllow chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes for stronger flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
