Grilled California Avocado Chicken is a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dish perfect for a sunny day or any time you crave something light yet satisfying. Marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, then topped with creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and melty cheese, creating a burst of deliciousness in every bite.
It’s a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for outdoor grilling or indoor grill pans.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Grill or grill pan
- Meat thermometer
- Knife and cutting board
- Tongs
Ingredients Overview
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy grilling and serving.
- Marinade: A zesty combination of olive oil, garlic, lime juice, and spices.
- Avocado & Tomato: The creamy avocado and fresh tomato topping add a California-inspired twist.
- Cheese: Mozzarella or Monterey Jack melts beautifully for a gooey finish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts and coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Prepare the Topping:
- While the chicken grills, combine diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and cilantro in a small bowl. Gently toss.
- Add the Cheese:
- In the last 2 minutes of grilling, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chicken breasts. Close the grill lid to let the cheese melt.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Spoon the avocado and tomato mixture on top.
- Serve:
- Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately.
Recipe Tips
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Avocado Ripeness: Use avocados that are ripe but firm to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Grill Marks: Press the chicken gently onto the grill for perfect sear marks.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Side Dishes: Pair with grilled vegetables, a crisp garden salad, or cilantro lime rice.
- Drinks: Serve with a refreshing drink like iced tea, sparkling water, or a margarita.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time to ensure the thighs are fully cooked.
Q: How can I make this dairy-free?
A: Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead?
A: Yes. Bake the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, then add the cheese during the last few minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled California Avocado Chicken is best enjoyed warm, topped with fresh avocado and tomato. Pair it with tortilla chips and guacamole for an appetizer, or serve it on top of a bed of greens for a satisfying salad.
Enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors of California in this easy and wholesome chicken dish!
Grilled California Avocado Chicken i
vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dish perfect for a sunny day or any time you crave something light yet satisfying. Marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, then topped with creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and melty cheese, creating a burst of deliciousness in every bite.
Equipment
- Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Grill or grill pan
- Meat thermometer
- Knife and cutting board
- Tongs
Ingredients
- boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Topping:
- 2 ripe avocados diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts and coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Prepare the Topping:
- While the chicken grills, combine diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and cilantro in a small bowl. Gently toss.
- Add the Cheese:
- In the last 2 minutes of grilling, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chicken breasts. Close the grill lid to let the cheese melt.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Spoon the avocado and tomato mixture on top.
- Serve:
- Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately.
- Recipe Tips
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Avocado Ripeness: Use avocados that are ripe but firm to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Grill Marks: Press the chicken gently onto the grill for perfect sear marks.
- What to Serve With This Recipe
- Side Dishes: Pair with grilled vegetables, a crisp garden salad, or cilantro lime rice.
- Drinks: Serve with a refreshing drink like iced tea, sparkling water, or a margarita.
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- A: Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time to ensure the thighs are fully cooked.
- Q: How can I make this dairy-free?
- A: Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Q: Can I bake the chicken instead?
- A: Yes. Bake the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, then add the cheese during the last few minutes.
- Serving Suggestions
- Grilled California Avocado Chicken is best enjoyed warm, topped with fresh avocado and tomato. Pair it with tortilla chips and guacamole for an appetizer, or serve it on top of a bed of greens for a satisfying salad.
- Enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors of California in this easy and wholesome chicken dish!
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