Introduction

This Honey Lime Chicken Avocado dish brings together tender, flavorful chicken with a creamy avocado rice base. The bright lime and honey marinade adds a perfect balance of sweetness and zest, making it an easy yet impressive meal for any day.

The image shows a white plate with a stack of three grilled chicken pieces in the center, each piece having a golden-brown, slightly charred surface with visible grill marks. On top of the chicken are two slices of bright green lime and a sprinkle of chopped green herbs. Surrounding the chicken at the base are chunks of light green avocado mixed with bits of red chili and more chopped green herbs, resting on a bed of white rice. Additional lime wedges are placed around the edge of the plate, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Thighs can also be used)
3 tablespoons Honey (Can substitute with maple syrup)
2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Fresh lime preferred)
1 tablespoon Lime Zest
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Avocado oil is a substitute)
2 cloves Garlic (Minced, fresh preferred)
1 teaspoon Cumin (Can substitute with coriander)
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Regular paprika can be used)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
2 cups Cooked Jasmine or Basmati Rice (Cauliflower rice can be used for low-carb)
1 medium Ripe Avocado (Ensure it’s ripe)
1 tablespoon Extra Lime Juice
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
Fresh Cilantro or Parsley to taste (For garnish)
Chili Flakes to taste (For heat)
1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds (For garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine honey, lime juice and zest, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with this marinade and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then cook the marinated chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baste with reserved marinade occasionally for a glossy finish.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe avocado until smooth. Mix in lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Fold in the warm cooked rice until creamy and well combined, forming a flavorful base.
Step 4: Using a mold if desired, layer the avocado rice on plates, then top with sliced chicken breasts. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, lime zest, chili flakes if using, and toasted sesame seeds.
Step 5: Serve immediately with an extra drizzle of lime juice for a refreshing zest.

Tips & Variations

Marinate the chicken longer up to 2 hours for deeper flavors.
Use cauliflower rice instead of jasmine or basmati rice for a low-carb version.
Swap chicken breasts with thighs for juicier meat.
Add diced tomatoes or corn to the avocado rice for extra texture and color.
Garnish with fresh mint for a different herbal note.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken and avocado rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Note that avocado rice may darken slightly but will still taste delicious.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a layered dish starting with a base of white rice mixed with small green avocado pieces and red chili flakes scattered around. On top of the rice, there are three thick grilled chicken pieces stacked unevenly, each piece showing golden brown grilled marks and bits of green herbs sprinkled over them. The stack is topped with fresh chopped cilantro and three lime wedges, two placed flat on top and one in the background resting on the rice. The whole dish sits against a white marbled surface, giving a clean and fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before marinating to ensure even cooking and absorption of flavors.

What can I substitute for fresh lime juice?

If fresh lime juice is unavailable, bottled lime juice can be used, but fresh juice provides a brighter and fresher flavor. Alternatively, lemon juice can work in a pinch.