Juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy avocado come together in this fresh, zesty rice stack that’s bursting with flavor and color—perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is all about bold, bright flavors that feel both comforting and energizing. The honey-lime marinade gives the chicken a tangy-sweet kick, while avocado adds creaminess and richness. It’s a colorful, nourishing bowl that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting a casual lunch, this layered stack is a guaranteed win.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Marinade

• Juice and zest of 2 limes

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt, to taste

• Pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

For the Rice

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice

Toppings

• 1 avocado, diced

• 1 tablespoon lime juice (for avocado)

• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

• ¼ cup diced red onion

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, to taste)

Directions

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: ~520 kcal per serving

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, zest, honey, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.

2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and let sit for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

3. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 7–8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.

4. While chicken cooks, dice avocado and toss with lime juice to prevent browning.

5. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.

6. In individual serving bowls, layer rice, chicken slices, avocado, chopped cilantro, and red onion.

7. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired, and serve immediately.

Serving Ideas

• Serve in mason jars for portable lunches.

• Add black beans or grilled corn for extra texture and nutrients.

• Make it a wrap: roll ingredients into a tortilla for a honey lime chicken burrito.

• Drizzle with hot sauce or chipotle mayo for extra heat.

Tips & Variations

• Marinate longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours.

• Swap grains: Try it with quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a twist.

• Make it vegetarian: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas tossed in the same marinade.

• Meal prep tip: Store the components separately and stack fresh when ready to eat to preserve textures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can toss pre-cooked shredded chicken with the marinade (omit the raw garlic) and warm it before serving. It’s a great shortcut when you’re short on time.

How long will leftovers keep?

Stored in airtight containers, the components last up to 3 days in the fridge. Keep avocado and sour cream separate until ready to serve.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely. Grilling adds extra smokiness that pairs beautifully with the honey-lime flavors. Use medium heat and grill 6–7 minutes per side.

What’s a good dairy-free alternative to Greek yogurt?

Try a coconut milk–based yogurt or a squeeze of lime crema made from blended avocado and olive oil.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your sour cream or yogurt is certified gluten-free if needed.

Final Thoughts

The Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack is everything a quick meal should be—fresh, colorful, satisfying, and full of contrast. Sweet and zesty chicken, creamy avocado, and fluffy rice make a combo that feels indulgent yet wholesome. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to come back to again and again, whether for a weekday dinner or weekend lunch with friends.