This Honey Lime Chicken Avocado dish is super tasty and fresh! Juicy chicken is marinated in a sweet and tangy honey-lime sauce, then served with creamy avocado slices. Yum!
I love how the flavors of honey and lime make the chicken shine! Pair it with some rice or salad for a perfect meal. You’ll want to make it every week! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Jasmine rice gives a lovely fragrance, but sushi rice is perfectly fine too if that’s what you have. For a healthier option, consider brown rice, just remember it will need more water and a longer cooking time.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a different protein, try shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. They’ll pair well with the honey lime sauce too!
Honey: Honey brings sweetness here, but for a vegan version, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar. Both alternatives work well and maintain that sweet flavor.
Lime: Fresh lime juice and zest add brightness. If limes are not available, you can use lemon juice and zest as a substitute. It might alter the flavor slightly but it’ll still be tasty!
Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley can step in. It offers a different taste but still adds a fresh touch to your dish.
How Do I Cook Rice Perfectly Every Time?
The cooking of rice is crucial to getting your dish just right. Rinsing it under cold water helps remove excess starch, keeping it from getting sticky. Follow these steps:
- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to eliminate excess starch.
- Combine the rice and water in a pot and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, cover the pot, lower the heat, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
- Fluff it with a fork to keep the grains separate. Set aside until ready to use.
How to Make Honey Lime Chicken Avocado
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine or sushi rice
- 1 cup water (for cooking rice)
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Juice of 1 lime
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (or any cooking oil)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare, including cooking the rice and chicken. Just follow the steps below and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice and 1 cup of water, then bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
2. Make the Honey Lime Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, and grated ginger until everything is well combined. This sauce will add a beautiful sweetness and tang to your chicken!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season them with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through.
4. Add the Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the honey lime sauce over it in the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Plate Your Dish:
To plate, mold the cooked rice into a round shape in the center of a serving plate. Arrange the sliced avocado neatly on one side of the rice.
6. Finish the Dish:
Top the rice with the honey lime chicken, making sure to drizzle some of that lovely sauce over it. Garnish with the chopped fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
7. Serve:
Don’t forget to serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your Honey Lime Chicken Avocado with a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will give a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just keep in mind it requires about twice the cooking time and more water compared to white rice—typically around 40-45 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free choice. Both will still provide a savory flavor to your dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power or warm gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Can This Recipe Be Made Spicy?
Definitely! If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick. Adjust to your desired spice level!