If you love vibrant flavors that dance on your tongue, the do Stack with Hot Honey & Candied Pecans is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This layered marvel combines tender lime-marinated chicken with a creamy feta-avocado blend that’s bright and luscious, all crowned with crunchy, sweet-spicy candied pecans and a generous drizzle of fiery hot honey. Every bite is a symphony of texture and taste, marrying zest and sweetness with just the right amount of kick. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’s going to be that show-stopping recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

do Stack with Hot Honey & Candied Pecans Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down this do Stack with Hot Honey & Candied Pecans into simple, essential ingredients, each chosen to bring out the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. You’ll find that every element plays a key role—from the juicy chicken packed with citrusy punch to the creamy, tangy avocado-feta combo, not to mention those addictive candied pecans adding crunch and the glistening drizzle of hot honey tying everything together.

Chicken breast: Cubed boneless, skinless chicken provides juicy, tender protein that soaks up the zesty marinade perfectly.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the chicken cook to a golden brown.
Lime zest and juice: Bring a bright, fresh citrus flavor that lifts the entire dish.
Garlic: Gives a savory depth that complements the lime beautifully.
Paprika and cumin: Add warmth and a smoky note that enhances the chicken.
Avocados: Ripe and creamy, they create the smooth, buttery base of the stack.
Feta cheese: Crumbly and tangy, this cheese adds a salty punch that balances the richness of avocado.
Pecans: Roughly chopped and candied with honey and cinnamon for irresistible crunch and sweetness.
Honey: Used both for candying the pecans and making the spicy hot honey sauce.
Chili flakes: Provide that perfect kick in the hot honey drizzle, adjustable to your heat preference.
Cinnamon and salt: Elevate the pecans with warmth and balance the sweetness.
Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar: Brightens the hot honey with a subtle tang.
Fresh herbs (optional): Cilantro or parsley add a fresh, herbaceous finish.

How to Make do Stack with Hot Honey & Candied Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Pecans

Start by making those addictive candied pecans that bring a crunch and sweetness no one expects but can’t resist. Heat a skillet over medium heat and stir together pecans, honey, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly for just a couple of minutes until the mixture becomes sticky and caramelized. Spread out on parchment paper so they cool and harden perfectly while you tackle the rest.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss the cubed chicken in this vibrant marinade to coat every piece thoroughly. Let the chicken soak in these flavors for at least 20 minutes as this is where the magic begins—infusing juicy citrus and warming spices into the meat.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook your marinated chicken for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is a beautiful golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the heat and set aside so it can rest slightly while you prepare the creamy layer.

Step 4: Make the Feta-Avocado Layer

Gently mash ripe avocados in a bowl, keeping some chunks for texture, then fold in crumbled feta cheese, lime juice, olive oil, and freshly cracked black pepper. This mixture is the lush, tangy base that contrasts the spicy and sweet layers perfectly, offering a cool creaminess that rounds out the stack beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare the Hot Honey

Warm honey gently in a small saucepan—just enough to loosen it up without boiling. Stir in chili flakes to taste and a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for brightness. Remove from heat and get ready to drizzle this vibrant sauce over your assembled stack, adding a little fiery sweet kick.

Step 6: Assemble the Stack

Using a ring mold or even just carefully layering on your plate, start with the feta-avocado mixture on the bottom, then add a generous layer of the lime chicken. Top it all off with the crunchy candied pecans that add that unforgettable texture and sweetness that ties the stack together.

Step 7: Finish & Serve

Drizzle the entire creation generously with your homemade hot honey and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley and a little extra lime zest for an eye-catching final touch. Serve immediately while everything is warm and fresh—you’ve got a plate full of flavor and texture that’s ready to impress.

How to Serve do Stack with Hot Honey & Candied Pecans

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley give this stack a vibrant, green pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the sweetness and spice. Extra lime zest scattered on top adds a zingy aroma that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this decadent dish with light, simple sides to balance the rich layers—think a crisp green salad with vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. A side of fluffy couscous or warm pita bread also works beautifully to soak up any leftover hot honey.

Creative Ways to Present

To really impress your guests, assemble the do Stack with Hot Honey & Candied Pecans on small individual plates using a ring mold for tidy, uniform layers. Another fun idea is serving it in small glasses or mason jars for so-called “stack shots” that are perfect for parties or casual dinners alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might be tricky!), store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Keep the candied pecans aside to maintain their crunch. The feta-avocado layer is best consumed quickly, as it can brown over time.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can freeze the cooked chicken portion separately. The avocado-feta mixture and candied pecans don’t freeze well because of their textures. Reheat the chicken gently when ready to serve and assemble fresh.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave until warm. Add the feta-avocado layer and candied pecans fresh when serving to preserve the textures and flavors that make this dish so special.

FAQs

Can I make the hot honey less spicy?

Absolutely! You can reduce the chili flakes or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder drizzle. The honey’s sweetness will still complement the stack beautifully.

What’s the best way to pick ripe avocados?

Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure without feeling mushy. This ensures they are creamy enough to mash but still hold some texture for the stack.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes, grilled shrimp, tofu, or even roasted vegetables would work well. Just adjust the cooking times and marinade accordingly.

How long can I store the candied pecans?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, candied pecans stay fresh and crunchy for about 1 week.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients in the do Stack with Hot Honey & Candied Pecans are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious choice.

Final Thoughts

Giving yourself the treat of this do Stack with Hot Honey & Candied Pecans is like gifting your taste buds a little celebration. The balance of bright lime chicken, creamy feta-avocado, crunchy candied pecans, and that addictive hot honey drizzle is a winning combo every time. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into this deliciously layered experience—you’ll be so glad you did!