Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Bowl is a fresh, colorful, and satisfying meal that brings together sweet citrus-marinated chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy avocado in one nourishing bowl. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you want something wholesome that still feels exciting and full of flavor.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Bowl
This bowl is easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and delivers a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that appeal to the whole family. The honey and lime create a light glaze on the chicken without feeling heavy, while the avocado adds richness and healthy fats. It’s naturally gluten-free, customizable, and great for both warm dinners and chilled leftovers the next day.
Ingredients for Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Bowl
For the Honey Lime Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Rice Bowl
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (made from about 1 cup dry rice)
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for extra juiciness. Honey can be replaced with pure maple syrup if needed. Brown rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice all work well, and quinoa is a great high-protein alternative. For a plant-based option, swap the chicken with grilled tofu or sautéed mushrooms and follow the same honey-lime glaze using maple syrup instead of honey.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Step 2 – Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly oil the surface. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place it in the hot pan. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Pour any remaining marinade into the pan during the last minute of cooking and let it simmer briefly to form a light glaze.
Step 3 – Rest and Slice
Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces to make it easier to layer into bowls.
Step 4 – Assemble the Bowls
Divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls. Top each bowl with sliced honey lime chicken and fresh avocado slices. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and green onions if using, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Pro Tips for Success
Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled for the brightest flavor. Do not overcook the chicken, as honey-based marinades can brown quickly. Letting the chicken rest before slicing keeps it juicy. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning. If meal prepping, store avocado separately and slice fresh when ready to eat.
Flavor Variations
Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for heat. Stir a spoonful of salsa or pico de gallo into the rice for extra freshness. Top with black beans or corn for a Southwest-style bowl. Use coconut rice for a slightly sweet, tropical twist. Add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt for a creamy contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This bowl is a complete meal on its own but pairs well with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or fresh fruit. It also works beautifully served family-style, letting everyone build their own bowl with their favorite toppings.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Avocado should be stored separately and sliced fresh. The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Print
Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Bowl
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 bowls
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A fresh, colorful, and satisfying bowl made with sweet honey lime chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy avocado. Perfect for busy weeknights or easy meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Whisk honey, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper together in a bowl.
- Add chicken to the marinade and coat evenly.
- Marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil the surface.
- Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Pour remaining marinade into the pan during the last minute and simmer briefly.
- Remove chicken and rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Divide cooked rice into bowls.
- Top rice with chicken and avocado slices.
- Garnish with cilantro, green onions, and lime wedges before serving.
Notes
Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Store avocado separately if meal prepping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~520 |
| Protein | ~36 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~48 g |
| Fat | ~22 g |
| Fiber | ~7 g |
| Sodium | ~620 mg |
FAQ About Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Bowl
Can I grill the chicken instead?
Yes, this chicken is excellent on the grill. Preheat the grill to medium heat and grill the marinated chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Grilling adds a light smoky flavor that pairs well with the honey and lime.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
This recipe is ideal for meal prep because the flavors hold up well over several days. Store the chicken and rice together and add fresh avocado right before eating. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I make this bowl dairy-free and gluten-free?
The recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as written. Just double-check that all ingredients, especially honey and seasonings, are certified gluten-free if needed.
What’s the best rice to use?
White rice, brown rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice all work well. Choose based on your texture and nutrition preference. Brown rice adds more fiber, while jasmine rice gives a softer, aromatic base.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet bowl, reduce the honey to 3 tablespoons and add an extra tablespoon of lime juice. This keeps the glaze balanced while letting the citrus shine more.
Final Thoughts
Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Bowl is a fresh, vibrant recipe that proves healthy food can be simple and deeply satisfying. With its bright citrus flavor, tender chicken, and creamy avocado, this bowl is one you’ll come back to again and again for easy dinners and reliable meal prep.