Description
Juicy grilled chicken marinated in lime, garlic, and warm spices, then topped with creamy California avocado, cherry tomatoes, melted cheese, and a balsamic drizzle. This fresh and flavorful Grilled California Avocado Chicken is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or summer cookout.
Ingredients
Scale
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 grill (or grill pan) to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. - Grill the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess. Grill for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid flipping frequently to allow a good sear to develop. - Add Toppings
Once cooked, top each piece with sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Close the grill lid for 1–2 minutes to slightly melt the cheese. - Serve
Transfer to plates and garnish with cilantro, balsamic glaze, or diced red onion if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra juiciness.
- Slice avocados just before serving to prevent browning.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently and add fresh avocado before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg