🌟 Introduction
This Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack is a deliciously layered dish that brings together zesty marinated chicken, creamy avocado, and fragrant cilantro-lime rice. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, all beautifully stacked for an eye-catching presentation. Whether you’re prepping a weekend meal or hosting a dinner party, this dish will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on the plate.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Honey Lime Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp honey
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cilantro Lime Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter or oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt, to taste
For the Avocado Layer:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- Juice of ½ lime
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 tbsp red onion, finely diced
- Optional: 1 small tomato, deseeded and diced
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeños
- Crumbled queso fresco or feta
🔪 Instructions
1. Marinate and Cook the Chicken
Method:
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice & zest, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C).
- Rest for a few minutes, then slice or dice into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Cilantro Lime Rice
Method:
- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, combine rice, water or broth, and butter/oil. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes until fluffy.
- Once cooked, stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt to taste.
3. Prepare the Avocado Layer
Method:
- In a bowl, gently combine diced avocado, lime juice, salt, and optional ingredients like red onion and tomato.
- Mash slightly or leave chunky, depending on your texture preference.
4. Assemble the Stack
Method: You can use a food ring mold for clean layers, or a small bowl as a mold.
- Layer 1: Spoon a layer of cilantro lime rice into the mold and press down lightly.
- Layer 2: Add a layer of the avocado mix and gently press.
- Layer 3: Top with warm honey lime chicken pieces.
- Carefully lift the mold and garnish with extra cilantro, a lime wedge, or cheese crumbles.
👨🍳 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a light side salad or grilled vegetables.
- Drizzle with a bit of extra honey-lime sauce or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
- Pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine or a sparkling lime agua fresca.
✅ Tips
- Make ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before for deeper flavor.
- Spicy twist: Add chopped jalapeño to the avocado layer.
- Vegan option: Swap chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh and use agave instead of honey.