Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully with this marinade and are actually more forgiving during cooking as their higher fat content keeps them juicy even if they spend an extra minute or two on the heat. The honey in the marinade caramelizes equally beautifully on thighs and the result is just as vibrant and delicious as the breast version.

How far in advance can I marinate the chicken?

The minimum is 30 minutes at room temperature and the maximum is 24 hours in the refrigerator. Beyond 24 hours the acid in the lime juice begins to denature the proteins in the chicken surface in a way that changes the texture slightly, making the outermost layer slightly mealy rather than firm and juicy. For the very best result marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

How do I prevent the avocado from turning brown in the rice?

The primary tool for preventing browning is the lime juice from the dish. Squeeze a little extra lime juice over the diced avocado before folding it into the rice as the acid slows oxidation significantly. Assemble the avocado rice as close to serving time as possible and cover the surface tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface if making ahead.

Honey Lime Chicken Easy Avocado Rice Stack 45 Minute Dinner

Name: Honey Lime Chicken The Most Vibrant and Fresh Avocado Rice Stack You Will Make
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts; 1/4 cup Honey; 2 Limes juiced; 1 tsp Chili Powder; 1/2 tsp Cumin; Salt and Pepper to taste; 1 cup Rice uncooked; 1 ripe Avocado diced; 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro chopped; 1/4 cup Sour Cream; Salt to taste; Extra Lime Juice for finishing

Description

The most vibrant and fresh Honey Lime Chicken served over creamy avocado rice made with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and sour cream. A stunning and completely satisfying honey lime chicken stack ready in 45 minutes and bursting with fresh tropical flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

1/4 cup Honey

2 Limes juiced

1 tsp Chili Powder

1/2 tsp Cumin

Salt and Pepper to taste

1 cup Rice uncooked

1 ripe Avocado diced

1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro chopped

1/4 cup Sour Cream

Salt to taste

Extra Lime Juice for finishing

Instructions

1. Whisk together honey, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

2. Add chicken breasts and coat completely in marinade. Marinate at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

3. Cook rice according to package directions until fluffy. Spread out to cool to warm.

4. Fold diced avocado, cilantro, and sour cream gently into warm rice. Season with salt.

5. Heat grill or skillet over medium heat.

6. Remove chicken from marinade letting excess drip off.

7. Cook chicken 6 to 7 minutes per side until golden caramelized and 165°F internal.

8. Transfer to a board and rest 5 minutes before slicing.

9. Spoon avocado rice onto each plate. Layer sliced honey lime chicken on top.

10. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and extra cilantro. Serve immediately.

Notes

Always use fresh lime juice not bottled for the most vibrant marinade flavor.

Honey caramelizes quickly. Cook over medium not high heat to prevent burning.

Rinse rice before cooking for fluffier and more separate grains.

Add avocado to rice at the last moment before serving to minimize browning.

Store chicken and avocado rice separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course, Dinner
Method: Grill or Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: honey lime chicken, honey lime chicken avocado rice, avocado rice stack, easy honey lime chicken recipe