Vegan Cilantro-Lime Rice Stack with Avocado & Glazed Chicken

This Cilantro-Lime Rice Stack with Avocado & Glazed Chicken is the kind of recipe that looks restaurant-worthy but feels refreshingly simple to make at home. It’s colorful, layered, and bursting with fresh flavors—perfect for anyone who wants a balanced, satisfying meal that doesn’t feel heavy.

The base is fluffy cilantro-lime rice, fragrant and zesty. On top comes creamy avocado, adding richness and contrast. The final layer—tender glazed chicken—brings savory depth and a glossy finish that ties everything together. Each forkful delivers a perfect mix of textures: soft rice, buttery avocado, and juicy chicken.

Whether you’re meal-prepping, serving guests, or just elevating your weeknight dinner routine, this rice stack delivers freshness, comfort, and visual appeal all at once.

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Why Rice Stacks Are a Game-Changer

Rice stacks aren’t just pretty—they’re practical. Layering ingredients allows each component to shine while still blending beautifully when eaten together. This format also makes portioning easy and presentation effortless.

This recipe works well for:

• Healthy dinner bowls
• Meal prep lunches
• Family-style dinners
• Light yet filling meals

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Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Zest of 1 lime
• Juice of 2 limes
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 ripe avocados, sliced
• 2 boneless chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
• ¼ cup honey or maple-style glaze
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, fluff the warm cooked rice with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Add olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until evenly combined.
3. In a small skillet, warm the cooked chicken slices over medium heat.
4. Add honey (or glaze), soy sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to the chicken.
5. Stir gently and cook for 3–4 minutes until the chicken is glossy and well coated.
6. Remove from heat and set aside.
7. To assemble, lightly oil a round mold or small bowl.
8. Press a layer of cilantro-lime rice firmly into the bottom.
9. Add a layer of sliced avocado, gently pressing down.
10. Top with glazed chicken.
11. Carefully invert onto a plate and remove the mold.
12. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges before serving.

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Flavor Balance & Texture Notes

The brightness of lime cuts through the richness of avocado, while the sweet-savory glaze on the chicken adds depth without overpowering the dish. Using warm rice helps everything meld together while keeping the stack stable.

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Make It Your Own

• Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a fully vegan version
• Add black beans or corn for extra texture
• Drizzle with dairy-free yogurt sauce or tahini-lime dressing
• Sprinkle with chili flakes for heat

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Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Assemble fresh for best texture and presentation.

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