Avocado & Cucumber Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant meal that feels fresh, satisfying, and bursts with flavor, this Honey-Soy Glazed Chicken Rice Bowl with Roasted Broccoli, Avocado & Cucumber is an absolute winner. Combining tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory glaze, crisp roasted broccoli, and the creamy, refreshing crunch of avocado and cucumber, it’s an effortless dish that dazzles your taste buds and comforts your soul. The Avocado & Cucumber elements here don’t just add a cooling balance but also bring a lovely contrast in texture and color that makes every bite exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend feast, this bowl has everything you need for a wholesome and irresistible meal.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a pivotal role in creating a beautiful harmony of tastes and textures. From the rich honey-soy chicken to the fresh slices of avocado and cucumber, every component complements the others perfectly.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose whichever you prefer; thighs stay juicier while breasts are leaner.
• Soy sauce: Adds the deep umami flavor that balances the sweetness wonderfully.
• Honey: Brings a natural sweetness that caramelizes on the chicken for a gorgeous glaze.
• Rice vinegar or lime juice: A touch of acidity to brighten all the other flavors.
• Garlic and ginger: Classic aromatics that infuse the chicken with warmth and depth.
• Sesame oil: Just a splash for subtle nuttiness (optional but highly recommended).
• Broccoli florets: Roasting them gives a lovely crisp-tender texture and slight char.
• Olive oil: For roasting the broccoli to golden perfection.
• Cooked jasmine or brown rice: The comforting base that soaks up all the glorious juices.
• Avocado: Sliced fresh to add creamy richness and mild flavor.
• Cucumber: Thin slices lend a crisp, cooling bite that’s essential to balance richness.
• Sesame seeds and fresh herbs: For that finishing touch of texture and color.

How to Make Avocado & Cucumber

Step 1: Roast the Broccoli

Start by heating your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the broccoli florets in olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 15 to 20 minutes. This method brings out the broccoli’s natural sweetness while giving it a satisfying crispy edge that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the avocado and the refreshing crunch of cucumber.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey-Soy Glaze

Whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar or lime juice, minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and a dash of sesame oil. This glaze is the heart of your chicken’s flavor, offering a luscious balance of sweet and savory notes that marry perfectly with the mild, cool Avocado & Cucumber slices you’ll add later.

Step 3: Marinate and Cook the Chicken

Marinate your sliced chicken in half of the honey-soy mixture for a minimum of 15 minutes to let all those luscious flavors soak in. When ready, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken pieces until they’re golden caramelized and fully cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. That sticky honey-soy coating is what makes every forkful so irresistible!

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowl

Layer cooked rice at the bottom, then top with your tender roasted broccoli, succulent honey-soy glazed chicken, and lastly, fresh slices of avocado and cucumber. Don’t forget to drizzle the remaining honey-soy sauce over the top and sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped herbs, turning your bowl into a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

How to Serve Avocado & Cucumber

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro or green onions sprinkled on top bring a burst of herbal brightness that lifts the whole dish. Sesame seeds add a toasty crunch that complements the creamy avocado and cool cucumber slices beautifully.

Side Dishes

This bowl is satisfying on its own but pairs wonderfully with tangy pickled vegetables or spicy kimchi for a bit of a kick. For a low-carb alternative, swap the rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa to keep things light yet filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests or just make your meal extra special? Serve the Avocado & Cucumber rice bowl in pretty glass bowls, layering ingredients so the vibrant colors peek through. Or try topping with a soft-boiled egg or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra pop of flavor and spice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can easily store leftover chicken, rice, and roasted broccoli together in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep sliced avocado and cucumber separate if possible to maintain freshness and prevent them from getting soggy.

Freezing

This dish freezes well without the avocado and cucumber. Store the cooked chicken, rice, and broccoli in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready, defrost overnight in the fridge and add fresh Avocado & Cucumber slices at serving time for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your bowl gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add fresh Avocado & Cucumber slices after reheating to preserve their creamy, crisp character, making every bite delightful.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice?

Absolutely! Jasmine rice is lovely for its fragrant aroma, but brown rice, basmati, or even quinoa all work wonderfully and add interesting texture and nutritional benefits.

Is there a vegetarian version of this bowl?

Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh marinated in the same honey-soy glaze, then roast or pan-fry until golden. You’ll still get all the comforting flavors with a plant-based twist.

How ripe should the avocado be?

Look for avocados that yield slightly when gently pressed but aren’t too mushy. This ensures a creamy texture that complements the cucumber’s crisp freshness perfectly.

Can I prep this meal for the week?

This bowl is great for meal prep. Just keep the avocado and cucumber slices separate until serving to prevent them from becoming watery or brown.

What can I use if I don’t have sesame oil?

If you don’t have sesame oil, a mild olive oil or even avocado oil will work fine, though it changes the flavor slightly. Sesame oil adds a characteristic nutty depth that enhances the overall dish.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Honey-Soy Glazed Chicken Rice Bowl with Roasted Broccoli, Avocado & Cucumber enough. It’s the kind of meal that feels nourishing while still being exciting to eat. The way the creamy Avocado & Cucumber slices cool down the sweet-savory chicken and add vibrant texture is simply magic. Give it a try soon, and I promise it’ll become one of your go-to favorites!