Shredded Chicken and Avocado Lime Rice Bowl with BBQ Sauce
If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal, this Shredded Chicken and Avocado Lime Rice Bowl with BBQ Sauce is just what you need! It combines tender, smoky BBQ chicken with creamy avocado and zesty lime-infused rice, creating a perfect balance of bold flavors and healthy ingredients.
I first made this dish on a summer evening when I wanted something light yet hearty. The mix of tangy lime, smoky BBQ, and creamy avocado instantly became a favorite. It’s great for a quick dinner, easy meal prep, or a nourishing post-workout meal. Plus, it’s super customizable—you can swap out the rice, try different BBQ sauces, or even add roasted veggies for extra nutrients!
Let’s get into this simple yet incredibly tasty dish!
⏱ Recipe Time & Servings
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 2-3 servings |
🛒 Ingredients for My Shredded Chicken and Avocado Lime Rice Bowl with BBQ Sauce
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover chicken works well)
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- BBQ sauce, for drizzling (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
⭐ Pro Tips for Success
- Warm or Cold? Your Choice! – You can serve this bowl warm by heating up the chicken and rice or enjoy it cold for a refreshing meal.
- Pick a Great BBQ Sauce – A smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce pairs best with the tangy lime rice. Try honey BBQ for sweetness or chipotle BBQ for a smoky kick.
- Use Perfectly Ripe Avocados – Avocados should be slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. Dice them just before serving to prevent browning.
- Add More Crunch – If you like texture, top your bowl with toasted pumpkin seeds, crushed tortilla chips, or chopped nuts.
- Make It Spicy – Love heat? Add sliced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick!
🍳 Tools Required
- Medium pot (for cooking rice, if not pre-cooked)
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or spoon (for mixing rice)
- Knife (for dicing avocado)
🔄 Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Quinoa | Rice | A nutty, high-protein alternative |
| Greek yogurt | BBQ sauce | A tangy, creamy twist |
| Grilled shrimp | Shredded chicken | A seafood variation |
| Mango salsa | Avocado | A fresh, fruity contrast |
| Cauliflower rice | Regular rice | A lower-carb option |
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep the shredded chicken in advance – Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm before serving if desired.
- Cook the rice ahead of time – Refrigerate cooked rice and reheat in the microwave with a splash of water for fluffiness.
- Assemble just before eating – To keep the avocado fresh, dice and add it right before serving.
🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Shredded Chicken and Avocado Lime Rice Bowl with BBQ Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Lime Rice
If you haven’t already cooked your rice, prepare 1 cup of white or brown rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, transfer it to a mixing bowl while still warm.
To give the rice a fresh and zesty flavor, squeeze in the juice of 1 lime and drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and black pepper to taste. Using a fork or spoon, mix everything together until the rice is well coated and evenly seasoned. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Bowl
Now that your rice is ready, it’s time to build the bowl! Start by spooning a generous amount of lime-infused rice into the base of each serving bowl.
Next, add 2 cups of shredded chicken right on top of the rice. You can use leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or freshly cooked and shredded chicken breasts.
Then, dice 1 ripe avocado and sprinkle it over the chicken. Be gentle when mixing to avoid mashing the avocado.
Step 3: Drizzle with BBQ Sauce
This is where the flavor really comes alive! Take your favorite BBQ sauce and drizzle it over the chicken and avocado. The smoky-sweet tang of the BBQ sauce perfectly complements the creamy avocado and the bright lime rice. Adjust the amount based on how saucy you like it!
Step 4: Add Fresh Garnishes
For a pop of freshness, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use chopped parsley or green onions instead.
To enhance the citrusy flavor, serve the bowl with extra lime wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lime juice on top right before eating adds an extra punch of brightness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Your Shredded Chicken and Avocado Lime Rice Bowl with BBQ Sauce is now ready to enjoy! You can eat it right away or pack it for an easy meal on the go. If you’re meal-prepping, store the BBQ sauce separately and add it fresh before serving to keep everything tasting its best.
Dig in and savor the perfect balance of smoky BBQ, creamy avocado, and citrusy lime rice!
🍽 Serving Suggestions for Shredded Chicken and Avocado Lime Rice Bowl with BBQ Sauce
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Grilled Corn on the Cob | Adds a smoky-sweet crunch to the meal. |
| Chopped Cucumber and Tomato Salad | A refreshing, light side that complements the bold flavors. |
| Roasted Sweet Potatoes | Provides extra heartiness and natural sweetness. |
| Tortilla Chips | Perfect for scooping up all the delicious ingredients! |
🥡 Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: If needed, warm the rice and chicken separately before assembling the bowl.
- Avocado Tip: If meal-prepping, store the avocado separately and add it fresh before serving to avoid browning.
🥦 Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
- High in Protein – Shredded chicken keeps you full and supports muscle growth.
- Packed with Healthy Fats – Avocado provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Rich in Fiber – Brown rice or quinoa adds extra fiber for digestion.
- Boosts Immunity – Lime juice is high in vitamin C for a natural immune boost.
🍷 Suggested Drink That Pairs With The Dish
Best Drink Pairing: Iced Mango Green Tea
Why? The slight sweetness and fruitiness of mango complement the smoky BBQ sauce, while the green tea adds a refreshing, cleansing contrast. If you prefer something alcoholic, a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works beautifully with the zesty lime flavors.
❤️ Enjoy!
This Shredded Chicken and Avocado Lime Rice Bowl with BBQ Sauce is an easy, nutritious, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal-prepping or making a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Give it a try and let me know how you liked it! 🌿🍗✨
