These Honey Lime Chicken & Rice Bowls come together beautifully, bursting with fresh flavors. The sweet and zesty marinade acts like a comforting hug on tender chicken. It’s a wonderful meal for busy weeknights when you need something simple yet satisfying. Plus, you can customize each bowl just how your family likes it!

Why You Will Love This Honey Lime Chicken & Rice Bowls

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, tasty dinner. The ingredients are straightforward and family-friendly, making it easy to whip up after a long day. You get to enjoy a balanced meal filled with protein and veggies. It’s a delicious way to bring everyone to the table, no fuss!

How to Make Honey Lime Chicken & Rice Bowls

Making these bowls is super easy! Start by cooking the rice and prepping the chicken in a simple marinade. Once the chicken is cooked through, just add your veggies and serve it up. It’s a straightforward method that anyone can follow!

What You Need

Ingredients for Honey Lime Chicken & Rice Bowls

2 cups long-grain white rice
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 avocado, diced
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step

Cooking Steps

Follow these clear steps to create your Honey Lime Chicken & Rice Bowls effortlessly:

In a medium pot, combine 2 cups of rice with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender. Fluff with a fork when done.
In a bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, soy sauce, lime zest, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
In a resealable bag or shallow dish, add chicken pieces. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, coating it well. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes or longer if possible.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and browned. Discard the marinade.
Once the chicken is cooked, add corn and black beans to the skillet. Stir and cook until heated through, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and slice it into thin pieces.
In serving bowls, add a scoop of rice. Top with the cooked chicken, corn, black bean mixture, and diced avocado.
Drizzle the remaining marinade over each bowl. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

How to Serve Honey Lime Chicken & Rice Bowls

These bowls are great on their own, but you can also pair them with a simple side salad or tortilla chips for some crunch. Squeeze some extra lime juice over everything for a fresh finish. They’re fantastic for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends!

How to Store Honey Lime Chicken & Rice Bowls

To keep your leftovers fresh, store the chicken, rice, and toppings separately in airtight containers. They will last in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave, but it’s best to keep the avocado and cilantro fresh until serving.

Recipe Tips

For juicy chicken, don’t skip the marinade time.
Add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rice.
You can adjust the honey based on how sweet you like your marinade.
Leftovers are great for lunch the next day!

Variations & Swaps

Spice it Up: Add some diced jalapeños to the marinade for a kick.
Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Vegan Option: Use firm tofu in place of chicken for a plant-based meal.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just cook the rice and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat. This makes weeknight meals easier!

Can I freeze the Honey Lime Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and rice separately in airtight containers. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

What’s the best way to reheat the leftovers?
Reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or a skillet until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help prevent the rice from drying out.

What can I add instead of black beans?
You can use other beans like pinto or kidney beans. Chickpeas also work great for added texture and protein.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this?
Try a simple green salad, tortilla chips with salsa, or grilled veggies for a colorful, well-rounded meal. These sides pair nicely with the flavors of the chicken bowls!