Hot Honey Lime Chicken Stack with Creamy Feta-Avocado & Cranberry Rice

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these simple steps to create this tasty dish from scratch:

Cook the rice: Bring water or chicken stock to a boil with salt. Add rice, lower the heat, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes until tender. Stir in dried cranberries, cover again, and let it steam for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff and set aside.
Season the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the seasoned chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked.
Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix honey, hot sauce, lime zest, and lime juice. Drizzle this mixture over the chicken in the skillet, simmering for 1–2 minutes until the chicken is sticky and glossy. Let it rest briefly before slicing.
Blend the toppings: Combine avocado, feta cheese, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper in a bowl. Mash or blend until creamy but still slightly textured.
Assemble the stack: In a mold or bowl, create a layer of cranberry rice. Spread the feta-avocado cream over the rice and finish with the slices of hot honey lime chicken.
Garnish and serve: Top with fresh herbs, extra chili flakes, and a squeeze of lime. Enjoy warm!

Best ways to enjoy it

This dish pairs perfectly with a light salad or grilled vegetables for a refreshing contrast. Serve it with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. To elevate your presentation, layer the components in a clear dish for a stunning display or serve individually for a more elegant touch.

Storage and reheating tips

Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and rice in separate containers for up to three months. Always ensure the chicken is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before enjoying again!

Helpful cooking tips

Marinade for more flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Cook the rice perfectly: Make sure to rinse your rice before cooking to achieve that light and fluffy texture.
Adjust the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of chili flakes in the chicken seasoning or use a milder hot sauce.

Creative twists

Herb variations: Try incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for added freshness.
Substitutions: Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free alternative, or swap the chicken for seafood like shrimp for a lighter meal.
Add veggies: Introduce steamed vegetables into the rice for extra nutrition and color.

Your questions answered

Q: How much time will this recipe take?
A: With preparation and cooking combined, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes on this dish.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a more tender and juicy result.

Q: What should I do if I have leftovers?
A: Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for later enjoyment, ensuring to reheat thoroughly for food safety.

Q: Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
A: You could replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu, and adjust the glaze to suit!

This Hot Honey Lime Chicken Stack with Creamy Feta-Avocado & Cranberry Rice recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, serving up smiles and satisfying cravings in every bite!