Description
This Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is a vibrant Mexican-inspired main course featuring juicy, marinated chicken cooked to perfection on the stovetop, layered over fluffy jasmine rice and a zesty avocado mixture. The combination of honey, lime, and spices creates a flavorful and healthy dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Rice & Avocado Mixture
- 2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (for avocado)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Extra cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Sour cream or hot sauce
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare Avocado Mixture: While the chicken marinates, combine the diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Gently stir to blend the ingredients, then set aside to keep fresh and flavorful.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
- Assemble the Stacks: Using a round mold or ramekin, start by layering 1/2 cup of the cooked rice into the mold. Add a few spoonfuls of the avocado mixture on top of the rice, then layer the cooked chicken as the final layer. Gently press each layer down with the back of a spoon to compact the stack, then carefully lift the mold off to reveal a neat, stacked presentation.
- Serve: Repeat the stacking process for the remaining servings. Garnish each stack with additional fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve the stacks immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors at their best.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.
- For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeño to the chicken marinade.
- This dish can also be served deconstructed as a rice bowl for a more casual meal.
