Name: Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped; ¼ cup red onion, finely diced; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; Salt and black pepper, to taste

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If you’re looking for a dish that combines juicy, perfectly grilled chicken with a fresh burst of vibrant flavors, this Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, colorful meal that feels indulgent yet light. The creamy avocado salsa with tangy lime and sweet tomatoes complements the smoky, spice-rubbed chicken beautifully, making every bite a delightful celebration of texture and taste. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe brings a bright and satisfying flair to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with an arrangement of ingredients for cooking. In the center, there is a white bowl with raw chicken pieces. Around it, there are several small white bowls and wooden spoons. One bowl has chopped red tomatoes, another has finely chopped red onions, and a small bowl contains minced garlic. Two wooden spoons hold ground spices—one with a brown spice and the other with a red spice. There is a small pile of fresh chopped green herbs on a spoon. Next to the bowls are two whole oranges and two green limes placed on a white plate. A whole green jalapeño pepper lies near the chicken bowl. A small amount of yellow oil and a cup of pale liquid are also placed among the ingredients. The colors are soft and natural, showing fresh cooking elements. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen carefully to add specific notes of flavor, texture, and color that come together harmoniously. Getting the fresh elements right ensures the dish pops in every way.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, 1½ pounds: Choosing thighs keeps things juicy, but breasts work great too if you prefer leaner meat.
Olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Helps lock in moisture and carries the spices perfectly.
Salt, 1 teaspoon: Essential for bringing out the chicken’s natural flavor.
Black pepper, ½ teaspoon: Adds a subtle, aromatic heat without overpowering the dish.
Garlic powder, ½ teaspoon: Brings a savory warmth that complements the smoky paprika.
Paprika, ½ teaspoon: Offers a mild smokiness and beautiful color.
Fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon (plus more for salsa): Adds brightness and zesty acidity balancing the richness.
Ripe avocados, 2 diced: The star of the salsa; creamy and smooth texture that contrasts with the grilled chicken.
Cherry tomatoes, 1 cup chopped: Juicy bursts of sweetness that brighten every bite.
Red onion, ¼ cup finely diced: Adds just the right amount of crunch and sharpness.
Fresh cilantro, 2 tablespoons chopped: Brings an herbal, citrusy freshness essential to the salsa.
Salt and black pepper for seasoning salsa: To taste, ensuring every flavor shines.

How to Make Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Chicken

Start by combining olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and fresh lime juice in a bowl. This marinade is flavorful yet simple, designed to enhance the natural taste of the chicken without overpowering it. Coat your chicken pieces evenly with the mixture and let them rest for at least 15 to 30 minutes so the flavors can seep in deeply while the chicken tenderizes slightly.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 400 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This heat level ensures a gorgeous char on the outside while sealing in juicy tenderness within. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side. Aim for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to guarantee it’s perfectly cooked and safely juicy.

Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Salsa

While the chicken rests for about 5 minutes after grilling—an important step to keep juices locked in—assemble the salsa. Gently combine diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Be careful to mix gently so the avocado keeps its creamy texture and doesn’t turn mushy.

Step 4: Serve it Up

Now the fun part: generously spoon the bright, flavorful avocado salsa over your beautifully grilled chicken, serving immediately for the freshest taste and texture combination. This dish is guaranteed to impress whether it’s a casual family meal or a gathering with friends.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa Recipe

The image shows four grilled chicken pieces on a round white plate, each topped with a colorful salsa made of yellow mango cubes, green avocado chunks, and small green herbs. The chicken has a charred, brown texture with visible grill marks, giving a slightly rough surface. The mango and avocado pieces add a fresh, smooth texture with bright yellow and green colors, scattered evenly on top of each chicken piece. Small lime wedges are placed on the edge of the plate, which is set on a white marbled surface. The arrangement is neat, and the colors create a warm, fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this dish even further, consider garnishing with fresh lime wedges for an extra citrus kick, a sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro for color and brightness, or even a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you’re craving some heat. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil can also add a glossy finish and richness.

Side Dishes

Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fragrant cilantro-lime rice, fluffy quinoa, or grilled vegetables for an added smoky element. Fresh green salads or even corn on the cob can complement this dish perfectly, balancing the creamy salsa and smoky chicken flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling festive? Serve this recipe layered on a bed of mixed greens as a hearty salad, or wrap the chicken and salsa in warm tortillas for fresh, homemade tacos. You could also turn it into a colorful grain bowl by adding black beans, corn, and avocado slices for added texture and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover grilled chicken or avocado salsa, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the chicken juicy and prevents the salsa from turning brown quickly due to the avocado. Both should be consumed within 1 to 2 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

While the grilled chicken freezes well, reach for the avocado salsa fresh whenever possible. Freezing the salsa can cause the avocado to become mushy and lose its vibrant color. You can freeze cooked chicken tightly wrapped for up to three months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat the grilled chicken, gently warm it in a pan over medium heat or bake in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. Avoid high heat to keep it tender and juicy. Always add fresh avocado salsa right before serving to maintain its bright, creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts are leaner and cook a bit faster than thighs. Just be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness. Marinating and proper rest time help keep them juicy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The grilled chicken holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days, and you can prepare the avocado salsa fresh each day to keep it bright and creamy. Just store salsa separately to prevent browning.

Can I add some spice to the avocado salsa?

Definitely. Add finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salsa for a nice kick that contrasts the creamy avocado perfectly.

What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook the chicken another way?

You can pan-sear or bake the chicken if you don’t have access to a grill. Cooking on medium-high heat in a skillet or roasting at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until cooked through will still produce delicious results.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The chicken should have nice grill marks and feel firm but juicy when pressed.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa Recipe is such a wonderful way to bring fresh, wholesome ingredients to your plate without sacrificing flavor or fun. It’s perfect for warm weather meals or any time you want to brighten up dinner with something colorful and satisfying. I promise once you try it, this recipe will become a staple in your cooking repertoire — so grab your grill, gather your fresh ingredients, and treat yourself to a dish that tastes as good as it looks!

Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need