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Grilled Avocado Chicken Recipe

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4.4 from 104 reviews

This Grilled California Avocado Chicken recipe combines juicy marinated chicken breasts with fresh, creamy California avocados, cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfectly grilled to achieve a smoky sear and topped with fresh ingredients, it’s a flavorful and healthy dish ideal for summertime meals or easy weeknight dinners.

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

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking during cooking.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid flipping the chicken frequently so each side can develop a nice sear and grill marks.
  4. Add Toppings: Once the chicken is cooked through, top each piece with sliced California avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese. Close the grill lid for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt slightly over the toppings.
  5. Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken with toppings onto serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and a drizzle of balsamic glaze or add diced red onion if desired. Serve immediately with your preferred side dishes.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 4 hours to avoid mushy texture.
  • If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broil the chicken in the oven.
  • Adjust the seasoning to taste; add more lime juice for extra tanginess.
  • Use ripe California avocados for the best creamy texture and flavor.
  • Optional toppings like cilantro, balsamic glaze, and diced red onion add fresh and tangy notes.
  • Ensure proper food safety by cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).