This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. Juicy, marinated chicken is paired with fluffy rice, fresh avocado, and a zesty honey-lime dressing for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Honey Lime Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Rice Bowl:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice, cooked
- 1 avocado, diced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, sliced (optional)
- ½ cup black beans (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly caramelized. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice.
- Prepare the Rice: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to package instructions.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice into bowls. Top with sliced chicken, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. If using, add black beans and jalapeño slices. Drizzle with the dressing.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with extra lime wedges on the side!
Would you like any substitutions or adjustments?