Description

This Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is a flavorful and fresh dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Marinated chicken breasts are grilled to perfection with a zesty honey-lime glaze and layered over fragrant cilantro-lime rice. Topped with creamy avocado, crisp red onion, and crumbly feta or cotija cheese, this dish combines sweet, tangy, and savory elements for a vibrant, delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and visually appealing.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

2 chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Rice

1 cup rice (white or brown)
2 cups water
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Toppings

1 ripe avocado, diced
1/4 cup red onion, diced (optional)
1/4 cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine honey, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture thoroughly over the chicken breasts and allow them to marinate for at least 20 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor.
Cook the Rice: Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rice, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is fully absorbed.
Grill the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and they are golden brown. Let rest a few minutes, then slice thinly.
Prepare the Cilantro Rice: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro to infuse bright herbal notes.
Assemble the Stack: On a plate or in a bowl, layer cilantro rice first, followed by sliced honey lime chicken. Top with diced avocado, red onion (if using), and crumbled feta or cotija cheese (if using).
Finish and Serve: For larger portions, repeat the rice and chicken layers. Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice on top before serving.

Notes

Marinating the chicken overnight will deepen the flavor and make it more tender.
Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, but adjust cooking time to about 40-45 minutes as needed.
Red onion and cheese are optional toppings; feel free to omit if you prefer a dairy-free or milder dish.
Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
To keep the avocado fresh, add it just before serving and consider a light squeeze of lime juice to prevent browning.