Grilled california avocado chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds, a reminder of sunny skies and relaxed afternoons. This recipe combines the smoky char of grilled chicken with the creamy richness of California avocados, creating a dish that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying. Grilled california avocado chicken is a staple in my kitchen, and I’m so excited to share my version with you!
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This dish was inspired by a trip to Southern California, where I fell in love with the abundance of fresh avocados. I wanted to create a recipe that celebrated this amazing ingredient, and what better way than to pair it with juicy grilled chicken? Let’s get cooking!
Why You Will Love This grilled california avocado chicken Recipe
This avocado chicken recipe is seriously craveable, and super simple to make. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to your weekend barbecue. The combination of flavors is just irresistible: the smoky chicken, the creamy avocado, and a hint of lime… yum!
What I especially love is how customizable it is. You can easily adjust the seasonings to your liking, add a little spice, or change up the toppings. It’s super versatile. Thinking back, I first made Grilled california avocado chicken for a neighborhood potluck, and it was gone within minutes! It’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser, I am sure you will agree.
Beyond the taste, it’s a healthy option too. The chicken provides lean protein, while the avocado is packed with healthy fats and nutrients. Plus, it’s naturally gluten free and easily adaptable for other dietary needs. For another delicious and healthy recipe be sure to check out these Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. They are perfect for warm summer nights.
Ingredients Needed for This grilled california avocado chicken Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this incredible grilled dish.
For the Chicken:- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 ripe California avocados, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortillas, lettuce wraps, or salad greens for serving
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Hot sauce
- Mango salsa
How to Make This grilled california avocado chicken Recipe
Ready to transform those ingredients into a mouthwatering meal? Let’s do it!
- 1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- 2. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F or 190°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- 3. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- 4. Make the Avocado Topping: While the chicken is grilling, prepare the avocado topping. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocados, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix everything together, being careful not to mash the avocados too much.
- 5. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
- 6. Assemble and Serve: Slice the grilled chicken breasts. Serve the sliced chicken topped with the fresh avocado mixture. You can serve it in tortillas for tacos, in lettuce wraps for a lighter option, or over a bed of salad greens for a healthy salad.
How to Serve This grilled california avocado chicken Recipe
The beauty of this avocado chicken recipe is its versatility. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Tacos: Serve the grilled chicken and avocado topping in warm tortillas with your favorite taco fixings like salsa, sour cream, and shredded lettuce.
- Salad: Create a vibrant and healthy salad by placing the grilled chicken and avocado on a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette or a creamy cilantro lime dressing.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low carb option, ditch the tortillas and use crisp lettuce leaves as wraps. Add some shredded carrots and bean sprouts for extra crunch.
- Grilled Cheese Upgrade: Take inspiration from our Bbq Chicken Grilled Cheese recipe and add the fresh flavors into your new favorite comfort food.
How to Store This grilled california avocado chicken Recipe
Proper storage is key to enjoying this dish later!
- Refrigeration: Store the grilled chicken separately from the avocado topping in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. The avocado mixture is best used within 1-2 days to prevent browning.
- Freezing: Freezing the cooked chicken is an option. Wrap the chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. The avocado topping doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best to make it fresh.
- Reheating: To reheat the chicken, use the microwave, oven, or skillet. For best results, add a splash of broth or water to keep the chicken moist. Reheat until the chicken is warmed through.
Tips to Make This grilled california avocado chicken Recipe
Here are my top tips for making the best grilled chicken:
- Marinate for Flavor: Don’t skip the marinating step! It infuses the chicken with so much flavor and helps keep it moist during grilling.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), but don’t go beyond that.
- Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender and flavorful.
- Grill Perfection: Preheat grill to medium high heat to get those perfect lines without drying out the chicken too much.
Helpful Notes for This grilled california avocado chicken Recipe
A couple of extra notes to keep in mind:
- Avocado Ripeness: Use ripe but firm avocados for the topping. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure. Avoid overripe avocados, as they will be too mushy.
- Jalapeño Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the avocado topping to your liking. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is always best for its vibrant flavor.
Variation of This grilled california avocado chicken Recipe
Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations to try:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken marinade or avocado topping for a spicy kick.
- Citrus: Grate some lime or orange zest into the avocado topping for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Grilled Pineapple: Add diced grilled pineapple to the avocado topping for a sweet and tropical twist.
- If you are interested in a healthy chicken salad, incorporate other vegetables like corn and bell peppers.
What goes well with grilled California avocado chicken?
Grilled California avocado chicken pairs well with various side dishes, such as a fresh green salad, grilled vegetables (corn, asparagus), quinoa, or rice. Lighter options complement the richness of the avocado.
How do you prevent the avocado from browning after grilling?
To prevent browning, brush the avocado halves with lemon or lime juice before grilling. Grilling the avocado briefly and serving immediately also minimizes browning.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful option. Adjust the grilling time accordingly to ensure the thighs are fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What is the best way to grill chicken so it doesn’t dry out?
Marinating the chicken beforehand helps retain moisture. Grill over medium heat and use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious grilled california avocado chicken as much as I do! It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Now, fire up the grill and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. Give the grilled california avocado chicken recipe a go and let me know what you think in the comments below!
Grilled California Avocado Chicken: Easy Recipe!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Grilled California avocado chicken is a healthy and flavorful dish that combines juicy grilled chicken with creamy, fresh avocado topping. Perfect for tacos, salads, or lettuce wraps!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 ripe California avocados, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- 2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F or 190°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- 3. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- 4. While the chicken is grilling, prepare the avocado topping. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocados, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix everything together, being careful not to mash the avocados too much.
- 5. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
- 6. Slice the grilled chicken breasts. Serve the sliced chicken topped with the fresh avocado mixture. You can serve it in tortillas for tacos, in lettuce wraps for a lighter option, or over a bed of salad greens for a healthy salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg


