🥗 Honey Lime Chicken Bowl with Chili Feta & Citrus Rice
A vibrant, flavor-packed bowl featuring juicy honey-lime glazed chicken, fluffy citrus-infused rice, and creamy chili feta crumbles. This dish balances sweet, tangy, spicy, and savory flavors with fresh textures — perfect for a wholesome lunch or satisfying dinner.
Honey Lime Chicken Bowl with Chili Feta & Citrus Rice Recipe
Description
This colorful bowl combines tender honey-lime marinated chicken with fragrant citrus rice and creamy chili-spiced feta cheese. Fresh herbs and vegetables add crunch and brightness, making it a balanced and nutritious one-bowl meal. It’s customizable, meal-prep friendly, and packed with protein and fresh flavors.
- Time Required
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 20–30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings: 4 bowls
Ingredients
Honey Lime Chicken
500 g (1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thighs, diced
3 tbsp honey
3 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp lime zest
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp chili flakes
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Citrus Rice
1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
2 cups water or chicken broth
Zest of 1 lime
Zest of ½ orange
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp butter or olive oil
½ tsp salt
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
Chili Feta
150 g feta cheese, crumbled
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp chili flakes
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp lemon zest
Bowl Assembly (Optional but Recommended)
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
Mixed greens or shredded lettuce
Extra lime wedges
Fresh herbs for garnish
- Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Citrus Rice
Rinse rice until water runs clear.
In a pot, combine rice, water/broth, citrus zests, and salt.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 12–15 minutes.
Remove from heat, fluff with fork, stir in lime juice, butter, and herbs.
Keep warm.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix honey, lime juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, and spices.
Add chicken and coat well.
Marinate 20–30 minutes (or cook immediately if short on time).
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken 6–8 minutes until caramelized and fully cooked.
Let rest 3 minutes before serving.
Step 4: Prepare Chili Feta
Toss crumbled feta with olive oil, chili flakes, smoked paprika, and lemon zest.
Set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide citrus rice into serving bowls.
Add honey lime chicken.
Top with chili feta, vegetables, and greens.
Garnish with herbs and squeeze fresh lime juice over the bowl.
Pro Tips
Use chicken thighs for juicier results.
Grill chicken instead of pan-searing for smoky flavor.
Add roasted vegetables for extra depth.
Adjust chili flakes to control spice level.
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store components separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Assemble before serving.
2. Can I use brown rice or quinoa?
Absolutely — both work well and increase fiber content.
3. What can replace feta cheese?
Try goat cheese, paneer, or yogurt-based sauce.
4. Is this recipe spicy?
Mild to moderate. Adjust chili flakes to taste.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Skip feta or use plant-based feta alternatives.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
- Nutritional Information (Per Serving — Approximate)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 11 g
Sodium: 580 mg