Mediterranean Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Cauliflower Rice Stack with Hot Honey Drizzle
This Mediterranean Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Cauliflower Rice Stack with Hot Honey Drizzle is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite. Juicy, honey-lime marinated chicken pairs beautifully with creamy avocado, while light cauliflower rice keeps the dish low-carb without sacrificing fullness. Topped with a drizzle of hot honey, the stack has a perfect sweet-heat contrast that elevates the fresh Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Elegant enough for entertaining, yet simple enough for weeknight dinners, this dish is as visually appealing as it is flavorful.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients
For the Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 2 (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
Olive oil: 1 Tbsp
Honey: 2 Tbsp
Fresh lime juice: 2 Tbsp
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
Salt: 1/2 tsp
Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
For the Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower florets: 2 cups, finely chopped or riced
Olive oil: 1 tsp
Salt: 1/4 tsp
Fresh parsley: 1 Tbsp, chopped (optional)
For the Avocado Layer
Ripe avocado: 1 large
Lime juice: 1 Tbsp
Salt: 1/4 tsp
For the Hot Honey Drizzle
Honey: 2 Tbsp
Chili flakes or chili paste: 1/2–1 tsp (to taste)
Lemon or lime juice: 1 tsp
Optional Garnish
Fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley)
Extra lime zest
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lime juice, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
Cook chicken in a hot skillet or bake for 12–15 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Slice into strips once done.
While chicken cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté cauliflower rice with salt for 4–5 minutes until slightly tender. Stir in chopped parsley if using.
Mash avocado with lime juice and salt until creamy but slightly chunky.
In a small saucepan, warm honey with chili flakes for 1–2 minutes, then add lemon or lime juice and stir. Remove from heat.
To assemble, layer cauliflower rice on the bottom of a plate or ring mold.
Add a layer of mashed avocado, then place sliced chicken on top.
Drizzle hot honey over the stack, garnish with herbs or lime zest, and serve immediately.
Tips
Use fresh lime juice for a bright, clean flavor.
Do not overcook chicken; juicy meat makes the stack much better.
Squeeze excess water from cauliflower rice if frozen to avoid sogginess.
Mash avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Adjust chili in the hot honey to your heat preference.
Layer gently to maintain the stack shape.
Use a ring mold for restaurant-style presentation.
Let chicken rest 2–3 minutes before slicing for maximum juiciness.
Taste cauliflower rice and adjust seasoning before assembling.
Serve immediately for best texture contrast between warm chicken and creamy avocado.
Variations
Protein swap: Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken.
Grilled option: Grill chicken for a smoky flavor.
Veggie boost: Add roasted bell peppers or cherry tomatoes between layers.
Low-carb sauce: Replace hot honey with a drizzle of sriracha lime for spice without sweetness.
Herb-forward: Fold fresh basil or mint into avocado layer.
Cheesy twist: Sprinkle feta crumbles on top before serving.
Meal prep version: Keep components separate until ready to serve.
Citrus variation: Use orange or grapefruit juice in the marinade for a sweeter note.
Nutty crunch: Top with toasted almonds or pine nuts.
Extra creamy: Blend avocado with Greek yogurt for an ultra-smooth layer.
Q & A
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before cooking.
Can this be made ahead?
You can prep the chicken and rice, but assemble stacks just before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How spicy is the hot honey?
Adjust chili flakes to taste; start mild and add more if desired.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, warm it gently before stacking.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, reduce or omit chili in the honey for milder flavor.
How long do leftovers last?
Chicken and rice last up to 2 days refrigerated; avocado may brown if pre-assembled.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas and honey for maple syrup.
What can I serve it with?
A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables pairs well.
Is this meal low-carb?
Yes, cauliflower rice replaces grains, keeping it low-carb and filling.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 480 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fat: 28 g
Fiber: 8 g
Sugar: 10 g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Cauliflower Rice Stack with Hot Honey Drizzle is a colorful, flavorful, and nutritious dish that delivers on taste and presentation. Sweet, tangy chicken, creamy avocado, and lightly sautéed cauliflower rice create layers of texture and flavor, while hot honey adds an exciting sweet-heat finish. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal, brunch, or entertaining, this stack shows how simple, wholesome ingredients can become a striking, satisfying dish with minimal effort.