🌿 Description

This Mediterranean Honey-Lime Chicken & Avocado Rice Stack brings together the best of both worlds — the freshness of citrus-marinated chicken, creamy avocado, aromatic basmati rice, and a drizzle of herbed honey-lime dressing.
It’s vibrant, healthy, and bursting with the flavors of the Mediterranean coast — think Greek olive oil, herbs, and bright lemony notes.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved horizontally for even cooking)
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • Juice and zest of 1 lime
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Rice Layer

  • 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
  • Salt to taste

For the Avocado Layer

  • 1–2 ripe avocados, sliced thinly
  • Juice of ½ lime (to prevent browning)
  • A pinch of salt and pepper

For the Mediterranean Honey-Lime Drizzle

  • 2 tbsp honey
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley, basil, or mint
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

🍗 Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lime juice and zest, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat well.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 3 hours for deeper flavor).

2. Cook the Rice

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Add olive oil, salt, and rice.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the rice is fluffy.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley or basil. Keep warm.

3. Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and sear each side for 4–5 minutes or until golden and fully cooked (internal temp: 75°C / 165°F).
  3. Brush with extra marinade during the last minute for a glossy glaze.
  4. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

4. Make the Mediterranean Honey-Lime Drizzle

  1. In a small bowl, whisk honey, lime juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, herbs, salt, and pepper.
  2. Adjust to taste — more honey for sweetness or lime for tang.

5. Assemble the Rice Stack

  1. Use a small bowl or food ring mold for perfect stacking.
  2. Place a generous layer of rice at the bottom and press gently.
  3. Arrange avocado slices neatly over the rice.
  4. Top with sliced honey-lime chicken.
  5. Drizzle the Mediterranean honey-lime sauce generously over the top.
  6. Garnish with fresh herbs and a lime slice.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm as a main course with a Greek cucumber salad or roasted vegetables.
  • For a fancier presentation, serve each stack individually on a plate drizzled with extra sauce.
  • Pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemon water.

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Grain swap: Use quinoa or bulgur wheat for a fiber-rich option.
  • Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or almonds on top.
  • Cheese lovers: Add crumbled feta between the avocado and chicken layers.
  • Vegan option: Replace chicken with grilled halloumi or marinated tofu.

🌍 Mediterranean Flavor Essence

This dish shines with bright citrus, golden olive oil, and fresh herbs — all hallmarks of Mediterranean cooking. The balance of sweetness from honey, tang from lime, and creaminess from avocado creates a perfect harmony that feels indulgent yet wholesome.