Grilled California Avocado Chicken Recipe
Grilled California Avocado Chicken is a vibrant, summery dish featuring marinated grilled chicken breasts topped with creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and melty cheese. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for healthy weeknight dinners or outdoor gatherings.With a simple marinade and fresh toppings, this dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Marinade:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Toppings:
- 2 California avocados sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
Optional:
- chopped cilantro, balsamic glaze, diced red onion
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken and coat well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
Preheat the Grill
- Heat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high.
- Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess.
- Grill for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Do not flip frequently—let each side get a nice sear.
Add Toppings
- Once the chicken is cooked, top with sliced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
- Close the grill lid for 1–2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
Serve
- Transfer to plates, garnish with fresh cilantro or a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides.