Honey Lime Chicken Avocado
A quick and bright skillet meal featuring sweet honey, zesty lime, and creamy avocado, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or light lunches.
Ingredients
For the marinade
- 3 tablespoons honey Maple syrup can be substituted.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice Fresh lime juice is best for flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Avocado oil is an alternative.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh preferred.
- 1 teaspoon cumin Or coriander.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Regular paprika can be used.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For serving
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Or thighs.
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice Cauliflower rice for low-carb.
- 1 medium ripe avocado Slice or dice just before serving.
- 1 tablespoon extra lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For finishing the avocado.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, to taste For garnish.
- Chili flakes, to taste Optional heat.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine honey, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Add chicken to the bowl or a zip-top bag. Coat evenly and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes or up to 2–4 hours for more flavor. Avoid marinating more than 24 hours.
Cooking
- Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil, or preheat grill to medium-high.
- Sear chicken 5–7 minutes per side (breasts) depending on thickness, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Thighs may need slightly less time.
- Transfer chicken to a cutting board and rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
Assembly
- Toss diced or sliced avocado with extra lime juice and olive oil, season lightly with salt.
- Fluff rice into bowls, slice chicken across the grain, top with avocado, cilantro or parsley, chili flakes, and toasted sesame seeds.
- Spoon any reserved cooked glaze over the chicken if desired (do not use raw marinade unless boiled).
Notes
For the brightest flavor, use fresh lime juice and zest. If using thighs, expect slightly shorter cooking time per piece.