Honey-Lime Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Avocado
Serves
2–3 people
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier results)
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3 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp honey
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Zest of 1 lime
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Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp chili flakes (adjust heat to taste)
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½ tsp ground cumin
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Salt & black pepper to taste
Cilantro Lime Rice
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1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
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2 cups water or chicken broth
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1 tbsp butter or olive oil
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Juice of ½ lime
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¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
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Salt to taste
Avocado Topping
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1–2 ripe avocados, sliced
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Pinch of salt
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Fresh lime juice (a few drops)
Optional Drizzle (Highly Recommended)
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2 tbsp reserved marinade (boiled)
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OR extra honey + lime juice mixed together
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OR spicy mayo (mayo + lime + chili sauce)
Garnish
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Fresh cilantro leaves
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Red chili flakes
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Lime wedges
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
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In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, paprika, chili flakes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
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Add chicken and coat thoroughly.
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Cover and marinate at least 30 minutes, ideally 2–4 hours for max flavor.
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Pro tip: Reserve 2 tbsp marinade before adding chicken if you want a drizzle later.
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2. Cook the Rice
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Rinse rice until water runs clear.
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Bring water or broth to a boil, add rice, butter, and salt.
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Cover and simmer on low for 12–15 minutes.
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Remove from heat, fluff with a fork.
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Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro. Cover to keep warm.
3. Grill the Chicken
Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill
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Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
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Lightly oil grates.
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Grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side until charred and internal temp reaches 165°F / 74°C.
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Rest chicken 5 minutes, then slice thickly.
Stovetop Option
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Use a heavy skillet or cast iron pan on medium-high heat with a little oil.
4. Prepare the Avocado
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Slice avocado, sprinkle lightly with salt and lime juice to keep it fresh and vibrant.
5. Assemble the Bowl
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Spoon a generous mound of cilantro lime rice onto the plate.
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Layer sliced grilled chicken on top.
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Add avocado slices.
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Drizzle with sauce or reserved marinade.
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Finish with cilantro, chili flakes, and a lime wedge.
Flavor Boosts (Optional but 🔥)
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Add grilled pineapple or mango slices
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Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds
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Finish with flaky sea salt
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Add a spoon of chimichurri or cilantro sauce
Make It Your Own
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Spicy: Add sriracha or chipotle powder
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Healthy: Use cauliflower rice
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Vegan: Swap chicken for grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms

