Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa

Name: Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Collection

I always look for ways to make meals healthier without sacrificing flavor, and this Healthy Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa does just that! Combining juicy grilled chicken breasts with a zesty salsa made from ripe avocados, tomatoes, and lime, I’ve found that this dish is both refreshing and satisfying. It’s perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. I love that it's packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nourishing option for the whole family.

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:17:35.668Z

I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a warm summer evening, and I wanted something that would celebrate the season without being too heavy. I tossed marinated chicken on the grill, and the aroma filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. Pairing it with a vibrant avocado salsa added that fresh element, creating a well-rounded meal that everyone adored.

Over time, I’ve refined the seasoning and proportions, ensuring that the flavors really shine through. A great tip is to use ripe avocados; they add a creaminess that complements the grilled chicken perfectly. This dish is now a staple in my household!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty protein from grilled chicken paired with fresh, creamy avocado.
Bright, zesty salsa adds a refreshing kick to each bite.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Mastering the Grilling Technique

Grilling chicken can sometimes lead to dryness, so it's essential to monitor the cooking time and temperature closely. Cooking the chicken breasts for 7-8 minutes on each side over medium-high heat ensures they achieve that ideal golden-brown color while locking in moisture. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee it's cooked through without becoming dry. If you find yourself with grilled chicken that's slightly overcooked, serving it with the avocado salsa will help reintroduce that required creaminess.

To enhance the flavor profile further, consider marinating the chicken for longer than the minimum duration. Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for 30 minutes to 2 hours allows the spices to permeate the meat more deeply, creating a juicier flavor and a more vibrant result. During this time, keep the chicken covered in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent any cross-contamination.

Choosing Quality Ingredients

The quality of the avocados is paramount for this salsa. Selecting ripe avocados will ensure a buttery texture that can hold up the other fresh ingredients. Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure; this indicates they are ripe. If you can't find ripe avocados, you can store them at room temperature for a few days before using them, speeding up the ripening process. Keep in mind that the diced avocados should be added last to the salsa to avoid browning and maintain their firmness.

Cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and acidity, which perfectly balances the richness of the avocado. Choosing a mix of different colored cherry tomatoes can also enhance visual appeal, making your dish more exciting. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute with diced Roma tomatoes or even grape tomatoes, but ensure they are firm and ripe for the best outcome in terms of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare a delicious meal!

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado Salsa

2 ripe avocados, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start grilling!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly grilled chicken and delicious salsa.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them evenly. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Prepare the Salsa

In a separate bowl, mix together the diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Set aside.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 7-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Slice the grilled chicken and top it with the avocado salsa. Enjoy your meal!

Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy this refreshing dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, grill some lime halves alongside the chicken to squeeze over before serving.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To preserve its flavor and moisture, store the chicken in an airtight container. When you are ready to enjoy it again, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist. Avoid reheating in the microwave due to the risk of drying out the chicken.

The avocado salsa, however, is best enjoyed fresh. If you do have leftovers, store them separately from the chicken to avoid the salsa browning. For the best flavor, try to consume it within a day or two. A little lime juice added to the salsa can help slow down oxidation and keep the color vibrant for a bit longer.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This healthy grilled chicken with avocado salsa pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, which adds heartiness and additional fiber. A fresh green salad or grilled vegetables can also complement this dish well, enhancing the summer vibe while keeping it healthy. You could also serve it in taco form, using lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb option.

Feel free to experiment with the salsa ingredients as well. Adding diced mango or pineapple can lend a tropical twist, while jalapeños can introduce a spicy kick. If you're looking for a creamier salsa, try incorporating Greek yogurt or a dollop of sour cream, which can create a rich contrast against the grilled chicken, providing another layer of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the salsa a few hours in advance. Just keep them stored separately in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a side of brown rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

→ Is there a substitute for avocado?

If you’re not a fan of avocados, you can use mango for a sweet twist in the salsa.