Honey Lime Chicken & Strawberry Avocado Rice Stack
The Honey Lime Chicken & Strawberry Avocado Rice Stack is a fresh, colorful, and flavor-packed dish that transforms simple ingredients into a visually stunning meal. Juicy, tangy chicken is layered with fluffy rice, sweet strawberries, and creamy avocado, then finished with a zesty honey-lime dressing that ties every element together. This dish is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for lunch, a casual dinner, or a meal-prep-friendly option. Its vibrant layers, balanced flavors, and contrasting textures make every bite feel gourmet while remaining easy to assemble.
Time
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 1 lb (450 g)
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (3 g)
Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1 g)
Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon (1 g)
For the Honey-Lime Dressing
Honey: 2 tablespoons (30 g)
Lime juice: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
Lime zest: 1 teaspoon (2 g)
Salt: a pinch
For the Rice Layer
Cooked jasmine or basmati rice: 2 cups (370 g)
Lime juice: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
For the Toppings
Avocado: 1 medium, diced
Strawberries: 1 cup (150 g), sliced
Fresh cilantro or mint: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, olive oil, lime zest, and a pinch of salt to make the dressing.
Toss the cooked rice with lime juice and salt for a subtle citrus flavor.
Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces or strips.
To assemble stacks, start with a layer of rice at the base of each plate.
Add a layer of chicken, followed by diced avocado and sliced strawberries.
Drizzle the honey-lime dressing generously over each stack.
Garnish with chopped cilantro or mint if desired and serve immediately.
Detailed Tips
Use ripe avocados for creaminess and sweetness.
Let chicken rest after cooking to retain juices.
Slice strawberries evenly for consistent layering.
Warm the rice slightly before assembling for better texture.
Adjust honey-lime dressing to taste; more lime for tang, more honey for sweetness.
Use a ring mold for perfect stacked presentation.
Avoid overmixing rice to keep grains fluffy.
Add a pinch of chili flakes in the dressing for subtle heat.
Prep all ingredients before cooking for easy assembly.
Serve immediately to maintain freshness and texture contrast.
Detailed Variations
Swap chicken for shrimp or grilled tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian option.
Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Add thinly sliced cucumber or bell pepper for crunch.
Replace strawberries with mango or peaches for seasonal sweetness.
Add toasted nuts or seeds for extra texture.
Mix avocado with a little lime juice to prevent browning.
Include a layer of black beans for added protein and fiber.
Add fresh basil instead of cilantro for a Mediterranean twist.
Drizzle balsamic reduction in place of honey-lime for depth.
Serve in individual mason jars for meal prep or picnic-friendly presentation.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cook the chicken and rice ahead, but add avocado and strawberries just before serving.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, warm gently and layer with rice and toppings.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
You can use cauliflower rice to reduce carbs.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Swap chicken for roasted chickpeas or tofu.
How long will leftovers last?
Store components separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Not recommended due to avocado and strawberries.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh is best; frozen may release water and make stacks soggy.
Can I increase the dressing quantity?
Yes, more honey-lime dressing can be added for extra flavor.
Is it spicy?
No, but you can add chili flakes for a kick.
Can this be served cold?
Yes, it works as a refreshing summer bowl.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 380
Protein: 28 g
Fat: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 5 g
Conclusion
The Honey Lime Chicken & Strawberry Avocado Rice Stack is a beautiful combination of flavors, textures, and colors that makes every meal feel special. Sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, tender chicken, and fluffy rice come together in a layered presentation, elevated by a tangy honey-lime glaze. Easy to prepare and highly versatile, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. It proves that healthy, balanced meals can also be vibrant, indulgent, and visually stunning.