Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa

Name: Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 2 limes; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 medium tomato, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

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I absolutely love making healthy grilled chicken with avocado salsa! It's an easy recipe that combines lean protein with fresh and delicious flavors. The juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy, zesty avocado salsa, which adds a wonderful texture and brightness. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also makes for a great meal prep option. Whether I’m cooking for friends or just enjoying a weeknight dinner, this dish never fails to impress!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-02-28T09:57:35.144Z

As I was experimenting in the kitchen, I discovered that marinating the chicken in lime juice not only infuses it with flavor but also ensures it remains tender and juicy after grilling. After a few attempts, I perfected this method and now it’s a staple in my home. The addition of spices like cumin and paprika elevates the dish, making it anything but ordinary!

The avocado salsa is the real star, though. I love throwing in some diced tomatoes and red onion for crunch and flavor. A splash of lime juice keeps everything fresh and vibrant. It’s a simple yet impactful way to enhance the grilled chicken and brings in those healthy fats!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy grilled chicken infused with zesty marinade
Creamy avocado salsa adds a fresh and vibrant touch
Perfect balance of healthy fats and lean protein

Marinade Magic

The marinade not only flavors the chicken but also helps to tenderize it, ensuring each bite is juicy and full of zest. I recommend allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit for up to an hour in the refrigerator allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply. Make sure to turn the chicken occasionally in the marinade so that all sides are evenly coated.

You can also experiment with the marinade by adding ingredients like garlic powder or chili flakes for extra flavor. Keep in mind that if you're using fresh herbs, such as cilantro or oregano, they should be added just before grilling to prevent them from burning and losing their aromatic qualities.

Crafting the Perfect Salsa

When preparing the avocado salsa, make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe; they should yield slightly to pressure but not be overly soft. This will ensure a creamy texture without any brown spots. If you're making the salsa ahead of time, a tip is to add a bit of lime juice to the diced avocado to prevent browning and to keep the colors vibrant.

Feel free to customize the salsa by adding diced jalapeños for a kick or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess. This salsa not only serves as an excellent topping for the chicken but can also be enjoyed with tortilla chips as a fresh dip.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

For the Grilled Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 2 limes
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado Salsa

2 ripe avocados, diced
1 medium tomato, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect grilled chicken with avocado salsa:

Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they're well coated with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Avocado Salsa

While the chicken marinates, mix the diced avocados, tomato, red onion, lime juice, salt, pepper, and cilantro in a bowl. Gently toss everything together and set aside.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 7-10 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.

Serve and Enjoy

Once grilled, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve topped with the avocado salsa and enjoy your healthy meal!

Pro Tips

To add extra flavor, consider using a mix of herbs in your chicken marinade such as oregano or thyme. This will give the dish a more complex flavor profile. Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.

Storage and Meal Prep

This healthy grilled chicken with avocado salsa makes excellent leftovers. You can store the grilled chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you find yourself with extra grilled chicken, you can shred it and use it in salads, wraps, or tacos throughout the week.

If you're planning to make this recipe in advance for meal prep, consider cooking a larger batch of chicken. This dish freezes well too! Just make sure to wrap the grilled chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. When reheating, defrost in the refrigerator overnight before warming it in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve the grilled chicken and avocado salsa over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. The grains provide a hearty base that pairs beautifully with the bright flavors of the salsa while adding more fiber. Another serving option is to make a refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber, adding a scoop of salsa on top for vibrant color and flavor.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving the chicken and salsa as part of a taco bar. Provide tortillas alongside various toppings, allowing guests to build their own tacos. This not only makes for a fun and interactive dining experience but also ensures that even those with dietary restrictions can customize their meals according to their preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This marinade works well with shrimp, turkey, or even grilled veggies for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I make the salsa ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best to prepare the salsa fresh to avoid browning of the avocados. If necessary, add a bit more lime juice to help prevent this.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of quinoa, rice, or a fresh green salad.