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Sweet and Zesty Honey Lime Chicken and Rice Bowls to Brighten Your Dinner - Featured Image

Sweet and Zesty Honey Lime Chicken and Rice Bowls to Brighten Your Dinner

Learn how to make delicious Honey Lime Chicken & Rice Bowls. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons honey (substitute maple syrup for a different sweetness)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder as a shortcut)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but adds a lovely depth)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (can substitute vegetable broth)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional, but I love the color and flavor)
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional, for extra protein and fiber)
  • 1 avocado, sliced (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from getting too sticky.
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and toast it lightly for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. This little step adds a nutty flavor that makes a big difference—I learned this from my dad, who swore by toasting rice before cooking.
  3. Add the chicken broth to the rice, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Set aside and keep warm.
  4. While the rice cooks, prepare the honey lime sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, fresh lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
  6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the honey lime sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken so it gets nicely glazed and sticky.
  7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and tender—something I discovered after many dry chicken mishaps!
  8. Fluff the rice with a fork and divide it into bowls. Top each bowl with sliced chicken, black beans (if using), and avocado slices.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra drizzle of any leftover sauce from the pan.
  10. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of honey-lime flavor with every bite!

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: Honey Lime Chicken & Rice Bowls, recipe, cooking, food