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; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 lime, juiced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Recipes

I love how vibrant and fresh this Healthy Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa recipe is! It's not just a meal; it's a way to enjoy wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully on the grill. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy and zesty avocado salsa, making each bite a delight. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a healthy dinner option, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, letting me enjoy more time with family and friends.

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:40:48.518Z

When I first tried creating this recipe, I wanted to highlight the wonderful flavors of fresh ingredients and lean protein. I used marinated chicken breasts, grilled to perfection, and topped them with an easy-to-make avocado salsa. The combination of citrusy lime juice, crunchy onions, and ripe avocados really elevates the dish.

One particular tip I discovered is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This really locks in the juices, ensuring that every bite is as flavorful and moist as possible. I guarantee this dish will become a favorite in your household!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and zesty flavors that brighten up your plate
Lean protein that's easy to prepare and healthy
A colorful dish that's perfect for meal prep or gatherings

Perfectly Grilled Chicken

The marination process is key to achieving juicy grilled chicken. By idealizing the blend of olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika, you not only enhance the chicken's inherent flavor but also lock in moisture. Letting the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes allows the spices to permeate deeper, resulting in a more flavorful bite. For even more depth, consider marinating it overnight for a more intense seasoning.

When you're ready to grill, preheating is crucial. Aim for medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). This temperature ensures a nice sear, creating those distinctive grill marks while keeping the inside moist. As you grill, keep the chicken covered for a portion of the cooking time to maintain warmth and ensure it cooks evenly. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C); a meat thermometer can be a handy tool here.

Making the Avocado Salsa Shine

The avocado salsa brings a bright, refreshing element to the dish. Choosing ripe avocados is essential; they should yield gently to pressure when squeezed. Dice your avocados just before serving to maintain their vibrant green color. An effective trick is to toss them with lime juice immediately after cutting to prevent browning.

This salsa not only complements the chicken but also allows for versatility. If cherry tomatoes are out of season, substitute with diced red bell pepper for sweetness or even mango for a tropical twist. The balance of creamy avocado with zesty lime and the crunch of red onion creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors that enhances the grilled chicken beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious and healthy meal.

For the Grilled Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado Salsa

2 ripe avocados, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste

Once you have everything ready, you'll be amazed at how easy it is to put this dish together!

Instructions

Follow these steps to grill the chicken perfectly and prepare the salsa.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Avocado Salsa

In a separate bowl, mix together the diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Set aside.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Serve

Once grilled, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve topped with the avocado salsa.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips

To add an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin to the marinade or experimenting with lime zest in the salsa.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Both the grilled chicken and avocado salsa can be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep. The marinated chicken can sit in the fridge for up to 24 hours, infusing even more flavor. Once grilled, store any leftover chicken in an airtight container, and it will keep well for up to four days in the fridge, making it perfect for quick lunches.

The avocado salsa, while best enjoyed fresh, can be prepped in advance. To keep it from browning, store the diced avocados separately from the rest of the salsa ingredients, and mix them in just before serving. If you must store the salsa together, layer it with a thin film of lime juice on top to slow discoloration.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa is incredibly adaptable. Serve it alongside a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added whole grains. You could also use the chicken and salsa in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or pile the mixture onto whole grain tacos for a delightful twist.

For an even heartier meal, add a side of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, which can be prepared simultaneously on the grill. The smoky flavor of the vegetables will further complement the chicken and salsa, creating a well-rounded plate that’s colorful and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw them before marinating and grilling.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños to the avocado salsa or sprinkle some chili powder on the chicken marinade.

→ Can I make the avocado salsa ahead of time?

It's best to make the salsa fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and combine them right before serving.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

Quinoa, brown rice, or a simple green salad pair perfectly with this grilled chicken.