Introduction

This Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack combines sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors in a visually stunning layered dish. It’s a fresh and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The honey lime glaze adds a bright punch to tender chicken, complemented by zesty avocado and fragrant coriander rice.

The dish is stacked in four layers, starting with a thick, compact round base of white rice with a smooth and slightly sticky texture. On top of the rice is a chunky green layer of mashed avocado mixed with green herbs, giving it a fresh, rough texture. Above this sits a generous portion of grilled chicken pieces, browned with a slightly charred edge and glistening with a shiny glaze. The final layer features thin slices of bright green avocado fan-shaped and sprinkled with chopped herbs and sesame seeds, all drizzled with a light sauce that runs slightly down the sides. The dish is placed on a wooden surface with a slice of lime nearby and some scattered chopped herbs around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon lime zest
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Oil, for cooking
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
¼ cup fresh coriander, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice (for rice)
Salt, to taste (for rice)
2 ripe avocados, sliced
1 tablespoon lime juice (for avocado)
Salt and pepper, to taste (for avocado)

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, lime zest, and minced garlic to create the glaze.
Step 3: Heat a little oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 71°C).
Step 4: During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the honey lime glaze over the chicken, allowing it to caramelize. Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
Step 5: In a bowl, combine the cooked rice with chopped coriander and 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Season with salt and mix well.
Step 6: Slice the avocados and gently toss them with 1 tablespoon lime juice, salt, and pepper to prevent browning and add flavor.
Step 7: To assemble, place a ring mould or a large cookie cutter on a serving plate. Press the rice mixture into the bottom of the ring to form the base layer.
Step 8: Layer the sliced avocado over the rice, slightly overlapping the slices for a neat presentation.
Step 9: Top with the sliced honey lime chicken, arranging slices attractively inside the ring.
Step 10: Carefully remove the mould and drizzle any remaining honey lime glaze around the plate for extra flavor and decoration.
Step 11: Repeat the stacking process for additional servings and serve immediately to enjoy fresh flavors.

Tips & Variations

Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
For extra zest, add a pinch of chili flakes to the honey lime glaze.
Fresh cilantro can be used instead of coriander, depending on your preference.
If you don’t have a ring mould, carefully shape the layers using a clean glass or ramekin.
Leftover rice and chicken can be served as a bowl without stacking for a quick meal.

Storage

Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avocado is best sliced fresh, but if storing, toss with lime juice and cover tightly to prevent browning. Reheat chicken gently in a pan or microwave before assembling. Avoid reheating the rice and avocado together to maintain texture and freshness.

How to Serve

A three-layer dish stacked neatly on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface; the bottom layer is a compact mound of fluffy white rice with a slightly sticky texture, garnished lightly with green herbs and drizzled with a golden-brown sauce that pools around the base. The middle layer features thick, grilled pieces of meat or fish, glazed and caramelized to a deep golden-brown with crispy edges, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. The top layer is made of thin, fanned slices of bright green avocado, topped with a scattering of small white sesame seeds and green herbs, and drizzled lightly with the same golden sauce. On the plate beside the stack are two fresh lime wedges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

While the components can be prepared ahead, it’s best to assemble just before serving to keep the avocado fresh and maintain the dish’s vibrant texture and appearance.