Description
This fresh avocado lime chicken recipe combines zesty lime marinade with perfectly grilled chicken and creamy avocado. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for healthy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining. The bright flavors and simple preparation make this a go-to recipe for busy home cooks.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 large limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
- For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked cilantro rice
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, lime zest, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add honey if using.
- Marinate the chicken: Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 8 hours.
- Cook the chicken: Remove from marinade. Grill over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side, pan-sear for 6-8 minutes per side, or bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and slice: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
- Assemble bowls: Divide cilantro rice among 4 bowls. Top with sliced chicken, avocado, tomatoes, red onion, and corn. Drizzle with lime juice, sprinkle with cilantro and cheese if using.
- Serve: Garnish with lime wedges and serve immediately.
Notes
Marinating Tips: Minimum 30 minutes, optimal 2-4 hours, maximum 8 hours to prevent mushiness.
Storage: Cooked chicken keeps 4 days refrigerated. Store avocado separately and slice just before serving.
Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for more flavor, swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for low-carb option.
Make Ahead: Chicken can be marinated overnight. Cook fresh for best results.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: avocado lime chicken recipe, grilled chicken, healthy dinner, meal prep, gluten-free chicken, summer recipes, lime marinade, avocado chicken bowl, quick dinner, protein bowl