This cilantro-lime rice stack with avocado and glazed chicken is a dish that feels vibrant, balanced, and thoughtfully composed. It brings together fluffy rice infused with citrus and herbs, creamy avocado for richness, and tender chicken coated in a glossy, savory-sweet glaze. The first time I prepared this dish, I was struck by how well the layers complemented one another without competing for attention. Each component is simple on its own, yet together they create a satisfying and visually appealing meal. I especially enjoy how adaptable this recipe is, whether plated as an elegant stack for guests or served more casually for a weeknight dinner. The fresh lime and cilantro lift the dish, while the glazed chicken adds depth and comfort. This recipe is an excellent choice when you want something wholesome, colorful, and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe offers a complete, well-balanced meal in one dish. It is fresh yet hearty, simple to prepare, and easy to customize. The layered presentation makes it visually impressive, while the flavors remain approachable and comforting.
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Cilantro-Lime Rice Stack with Avocado & Glazed Chicken: A Fresh, Layered Meal with Bold Flavor
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A vibrant layered dish featuring fluffy cilantro-lime rice, creamy avocado, and sweet-savory glazed chicken, stacked beautifully for a fresh and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix warm cooked rice with olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, and salt. Set aside.
- In a small pan, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, lime juice, and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until slightly thickened.
- Add diced cooked chicken to the glaze and stir to coat. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Prepare a food ring mold or use a cleaned tuna can with both ends removed.
- Press a layer of cilantro-lime rice into the mold. Top with a layer of diced avocado.
- Add a layer of glazed chicken, pressing gently.
- Remove the mold carefully to reveal the stack.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, mix avocado with a squeeze of lime to prevent browning.
- Use basmati rice if jasmine rice is not available.
- Grilled chicken adds extra smoky flavor.
- Double the glaze for a saucier dish.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Long-grain white rice serves as the foundation of the stack. When cooked properly, it becomes light and fluffy, providing structure and a neutral base that absorbs flavor well.
Fresh cilantro brings brightness and a clean, herbal note to the rice. Finely chopped cilantro distributes evenly and prevents overpowering any single bite.
Lime juice and lime zest add acidity and aroma. Together, they lift the rice and balance the richness of the chicken and avocado.
Olive oil adds subtle richness to the rice and helps carry the citrus flavors throughout the dish.
Salt enhances all components and sharpens the fresh ingredients without overpowering them.
Chicken breast provides lean protein and absorbs the glaze beautifully. Sliced or cubed chicken cooks evenly and stays tender.
Soy sauce forms the savory base of the glaze. It adds umami depth and balances the sweetness in the sauce.
Honey gives the glaze a gentle sweetness and glossy finish. It caramelizes lightly when cooked, coating the chicken evenly.
Garlic adds warmth and aromatic depth to the glaze, complementing both the soy sauce and honey.
Avocado contributes creaminess and richness. Its mild flavor softens the acidity of the lime and the intensity of the glaze.
Black pepper adds subtle heat and rounds out the savory elements of the dish.
Directions
Begin by cooking the rice according to package instructions until tender and fluffy. Once cooked, transfer it to a bowl and gently fold in olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, and salt. Cover and keep warm.
Season the chicken lightly with salt and black pepper. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic to create the glaze.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, then pour in the glaze. Allow it to simmer briefly, turning the chicken so it becomes evenly coated and glossy. Remove from heat once the glaze thickens.
Slice the avocado just before assembling to maintain freshness. To assemble the stack, place a ring mold or small bowl on a plate. Add a layer of cilantro-lime rice, followed by avocado, and finish with glazed chicken on top. Gently remove the mold and repeat with remaining portions. Serve immediately.
Equipment needed :
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes. The total time from start to finish is roughly 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the rice and chicken gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avocado is best prepared fresh and not stored once sliced.
Variations and Customizations
Brown Rice Base
Replace white rice with brown rice for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
Spicy Glazed Chicken
Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the glaze for gentle heat.
Grilled Chicken Option
Grill the chicken instead of pan-searing for a smoky finish.
Mango Avocado Layer
Add diced mango to the avocado layer for sweetness and contrast.
Coconut Rice Variation
Cook the rice in light coconut milk for added richness.
Vegetarian Stack
Replace chicken with glazed tofu or roasted vegetables.
Extra Citrus Profile
Add a splash of orange juice to the glaze for complexity.
Herb Mix Rice
Combine cilantro with parsley for a milder herbal note.
Low-Sodium Version
Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
Bowl-Style Serving
Serve layered in bowls instead of stacked for casual meals.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the rice and chicken can be prepared ahead, but assemble just before serving.
What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice provides the lightest texture.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, thighs offer extra juiciness and flavor.
Is this dish served warm or cold?
It is best served warm with fresh avocado.
Can I omit cilantro?
Yes, parsley is a suitable substitute.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Slice it just before assembling and add lime juice.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes, it scales easily for larger servings.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce to make it suitable.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for best flavor.
Does the glaze thicken naturally?
Yes, simmering allows the honey to thicken the sauce.
Conclusion
Cilantro-lime rice stack with avocado and glazed chicken is a fresh, balanced dish that combines bright flavors with satisfying textures. Its layered presentation makes it visually appealing, while the ingredients remain simple and approachable. This recipe is a dependable option for both everyday meals and more polished occasions, offering flavor, nourishment, and versatility in every serving.
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