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Grilled California Avocado Chicken

Grilled chicken topped with fresh avocado salsa on a white plate

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This recipe features juicy, spice-rubbed grilled chicken topped with a fresh and creamy avocado mixture. It’s a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed meal perfect for summer nights. The contrast of smoky chicken and cool, bright topping makes every bite satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely diced (optional)
  • 1 lime, juiced and zested
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. Place them on a plate and drizzle with olive oil and the juice of one lime, rubbing to coat.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast, pressing gently to adhere.
  3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  4. While the grill heats, make the avocado topping. In a medium bowl, gently combine the diced avocado, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using). Add the juice and zest of the second lime, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Fold gently to combine, keeping the avocado chunky. Set aside.
  5. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, without moving it too much, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and grill marks form.
  6. Transfer the grilled chicken to a clean plate and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  7. Top each chicken breast generously with the fresh avocado mixture and serve immediately.

Notes

For the best sear, ensure chicken is dry before seasoning. Do not over-mix the avocado topping to keep it chunky. Letting the chicken rest is crucial for juiciness. The avocado topping is best made just before serving.

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