Honey Lime Chicken with Avocado Rice Recipe
Honey Lime Chicken Avocado is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring juicy grilled chicken marinated in a tangy honey and lime blend. Served atop a creamy avocado-infused rice, this meal balances sweet, zesty, and smoky flavors with a fresh herb garnish for an irresistible combination perfect for a healthy, satisfying lunch or dinner.
- Author: Mila
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Fusion, American with Latin influences
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chicken Marinade
- 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)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Avocado Rice
- 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
- to taste Salt
Garnishes & Finishing Touches
- to taste Fresh Cilantro or Parsley (For garnish)
- to taste Chili Flakes (For heat, optional)
- 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds (For garnish)
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine honey, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create the marinade mixture.
- Marinate the chicken: Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil it. Grill the marinated chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Optionally baste with reserved marinade during cooking for added gloss and flavor.
- Prepare avocado rice: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe avocado until smooth. Stir in lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold in the warm cooked rice until creamy and evenly combined.
- Assemble the dish: Using a mold or ring, layer the avocado rice evenly on the serving plate. Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it on top of the rice layer.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley, lime zest, chili flakes (if using), and toasted sesame seeds over the chicken. Drizzle with extra lime juice for a refreshing zest and serve immediately.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for optimal flavor absorption.
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
- Substitute jasmine or basmati rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb meal.
- Avocado should be ripe and soft for a creamy texture in the rice mixture.
- Feel free to swap chicken breasts with thighs for juicier meat.
- Grilling can be replaced with pan-searing if a grill pan is unavailable.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
Keywords: Honey Lime Chicken, Avocado Rice, Grilled Chicken, Healthy Chicken Recipe, Gluten Free Dinner, Easy Weeknight Meal, Citrus Chicken