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 cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 small red onion, finely chopped; 1 medium tomato, diced; 1 lime, juiced; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Recipes

I absolutely love making Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa for a quick and nutritious meal. This dish is packed with flavor and healthy fats, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Grilling the chicken not only adds a delightful char but also keeps it juicy. The fresh avocado salsa elevates the dish even further, providing a refreshing contrast. I appreciate how easy it is to whip up and how it feels like a special occasion meal with minimal effort. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:46:37.500Z

I remember the first time I made Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa. I had all the ingredients ready, and the aroma from the grill filled my kitchen with anticipation. The combination of spices I chose really complemented the chicken, ensuring every bite was bursting with flavor. Grilling it to perfection took just the right attentiveness, but the result was well worth the effort.

In sticking with the healthy theme, I crafted a simple avocado salsa using fresh ingredients from my garden. The vibrant colors and crisp textures made it more than just a topping; it became the star of the dish. I’ve learned that letting the salsa sit helps the flavors meld beautifully, turning a simple meal into a culinary delight.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy grilled chicken infused with bold flavors
Creamy avocado salsa adds a refreshing twist
Nutritious and wholesome ingredients for guilt-free dining

Perfecting Your Grilled Chicken

Grilling chicken can sometimes lead to dryness, but marinating the chicken breasts is key to achieving that juicy texture. The olive oil not only helps to keep the chicken moist but also allows the spices to adhere better. When marinating, I recommend letting the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes, though 30 minutes is even better for flavor absorption. If you're short on time, using a meat mallet to slightly flatten the chicken breasts can help them cook more evenly and quickly.

When grilling, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat—around 375°F to 450°F—before adding the chicken. This high temperature helps create a nice sear and those beautiful grill marks. Be vigilant while cooking; chicken can quickly go from perfectly grilled to overcooked. After about 6-7 minutes on one side, check for those golden edges and flip it over. To check for doneness, I use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F.

Crafting the Avocado Salsa

The avocado salsa is a celebration of fresh ingredients, and selecting ripe avocados is crucial for the best flavor and texture. To choose them, gently press near the top; it should yield slightly but not feel overly soft. Dicing your avocados just before serving minimizes browning, which is especially important if you're preparing this ahead of time. If you need to store the salsa, keep the ingredients separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

This salsa can be customized to suit your taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Additionally, swapping the lime juice for lemon juice can give the salsa a different, yet refreshing twist. Gently tossing the ingredients together without mashing the avocado ensures you maintain that creamy texture while still allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Avocado Salsa

2 ripe avocados, diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 medium tomato, diced
1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes.

Make the Avocado Salsa

In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocados, red onion, tomato, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Gently toss to combine, being careful not to mash the avocados.

Serve

Slice the grilled chicken and serve topped with the avocado salsa. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of chili powder to the chicken marinade. Also, using fresh ingredients for the salsa makes a noticeable difference in taste!

Serving Suggestions

This grilled chicken with avocado salsa works beautifully as a standalone dish, but don’t hesitate to serve it alongside brown rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. If you're enjoying this dish as a lighter option, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad topped with a vinaigrette. I also find that adding some corn or black beans to the salsa can provide additional texture and earthiness that complements the chicken perfectly.

For a festive touch, serve the grilled chicken and salsa in lettuce wraps for a refreshing and low-carb option. The crispness of the lettuce contrasts nicely with the warm, succulent chicken. You can also provide various toppings, such as Greek yogurt or sour cream, for guests to personalize their wraps, adding a fun and interactive element to your meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is ideal for meal prepping! You can marinate the chicken the night before for even better flavor. Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have leftovers, they can be diced and tossed into salads or wraps, making quick work of lunches throughout the week. Just reheat the chicken gently on medium heat to avoid drying it out, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing option.

As for the avocado salsa, it's best enjoyed fresh but can last about 1-2 days in the fridge if stored properly. To minimize browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salsa before sealing it in an airtight container. If you have excess salsa, consider using it as a dip with your favorite tortillas or mixing it into scrambled eggs for a delicious breakfast treat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the avocado salsa a few hours in advance. Just add lime juice right before serving to prevent browning.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.