This honey lime chicken avocado dish is bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken, drizzled with sweet honey and zesty lime, pairs perfectly with creamy avocado. Yum!
As I enjoy this meal, I’m always amazed at how the honey and lime balance each other. Plus, who can resist that avocado? It’s smooth and delightful! 🥑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a lean choice here. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use thighs for more flavor and moisture, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Honey: This adds sweetness and depth. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave can work nicely. Wanna avoid sugar? Try a sugar-free sweetener that is suitable for cooking.
Lime: Fresh lime juice brings brightness. If limes are hard to find, lemon juice can do the trick, although it will slightly change the flavor profile.
Avocado: Choose a ripe avocado for creaminess. If they’re not in season, you can use guacamole or even a dollop of yogurt for a similar texture.
Rice: White rice is a great base, but you can swap with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken so it’s juicy and perfectly cooked is key! Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts to enhance flavor. The heat should be medium-high, so the chicken gets that nice golden sear.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked (internal temperature should be 165°F).
- Add the honey lime sauce after searing, allowing it to thicken a bit while coating the chicken for extra deliciousness.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Avocado?
To enjoy avocado in your dish, it’s essential to slice it right. Cut it in half, remove the pit, and slice while still in the skin to keep it neat.
- Drizzle with some olive oil or leftover sauce for flavor.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a bit of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for an extra kick!
Honey Lime Chicken Avocado Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Honey Lime Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 lime (juice and zest)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
For Serving:
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for avocado garnish)
- Red pepper flakes or smoked paprika (for avocado seasoning)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Honey Lime Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice and zest, soy sauce, garlic powder, and optional chili powder. This sauce will give your chicken a lovely sweet and tangy flavor. Set it aside for later.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper. This will give your chicken a nice savory base flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
4. Add the Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to medium. Pour the honey lime sauce over the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken nicely. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
5. Prepare the Plate:
On your serving plates, arrange a bed of cooked white rice. Place sliced avocado on either side of the rice, and drizzle with a bit of olive oil or some of the leftover sauce from the pan. Season the avocado with chopped parsley or cilantro, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for that extra flavor.
6. Add Freshness:
Include the halved cherry tomatoes on the plate alongside the avocado and rice. They’ll add a burst of freshness to your dish!
7. Top with Chicken:
Finally, place the glazed honey lime chicken slices right on top of the rice.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle additional chopped fresh herbs over the dish for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful Honey Lime Chicken Avocado bowl!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts with boneless skinless thighs for a juicier option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian choice, tofu or tempeh can work wonderfully, just ensure to marinate them in the honey lime sauce for added flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a honey alternative, maple syrup or agave syrup can be great substitutes. You could also try a sugar-free sweetener that is safe for cooking if you’re avoiding sugar altogether!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or oil to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey lime sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine when you’re ready to serve! The flavors can even deepen in taste if left to sit in the marinade overnight.
