If you’re craving a meal that feels like summer on a plate, the Grilled Chicken with Fresh Avocado Tomato Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish strikes the perfect balance between smoky, juicy grilled chicken and a vibrant, creamy salad bursting with fresh avocado, tangy lime, and sweet cherry tomatoes. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to bring to a gathering. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a go-to for anyone who wants something wholesome, colorful, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, but each one plays a crucial role in building the flavors and textures that make this dish shine. From the tender chicken to the creamy avocado and zesty lime, every element complements the others beautifully.
- 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose breasts about 6-8 ounces each for even grilling and juicy results.
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This not only keeps the chicken moist but adds a lovely fruity undertone.
- 2-3 cloves Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic elevates the chicken with its aromatic kick.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat to the chicken.
- 2 pieces Ripe Avocados, diced: Look for avocados that are slightly soft to the touch for that creamy texture.
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved: These add bursts of sweetness and vibrant red color to the salad.
- 1 small Red Onion, finely chopped: Soaking in cold water helps mellow its bite for a sweeter crunch.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice: This brightens and balances the salad with a refreshing tang.
- 1 handful Fresh Cilantro, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal note that ties all the salad ingredients together.
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Fresh Avocado Tomato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Marinate and Prepare the Chicken
Start by mixing the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Rub this mixture generously all over the chicken breasts. Letting the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes allows those flavors to seep in, setting the stage for a juicy, flavorful grilled main.
Step 2: Fire Up the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high. Once hot, place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. The goal is a nice golden sear with grill marks, ensuring the chicken stays moist inside. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe and perfect doneness.
Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Tomato Salad
While the chicken grills, toss the diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion into a bowl. Add the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro, then gently mix everything together. The lime juice keeps the avocado from browning and adds a burst of brightness to the salad.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Plate the chicken alongside a generous scoop of the fresh avocado tomato salad for a colorful, balanced meal that’s as delicious as it looks.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Fresh Avocado Tomato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro on top for an herbaceous brightness, or add a few thin slices of lime for a zesty touch. A drizzle of good quality olive oil over the chicken can also enhance the richness right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides like garlic roasted potatoes, a crisp green salad, or even a fluffy quinoa pilaf. These options add texture and variety without overpowering the clean flavors of the main.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the chicken atop a bed of mixed greens with the avocado tomato salad spooned over everything, creating a vibrant, layered presentation. Alternatively, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken and salad, turning this into a fresh, handheld delight that’s perfect for outdoor dining or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover grilled chicken and avocado tomato salad in separate airtight containers. Keep the chicken refrigerated for up to 3 days, and the salad for 1-2 days since avocado can brown quickly even with lime juice.
Freezing
The grilled chicken freezes well if wrapped tight in plastic wrap and foil or kept in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. However, the avocado tomato salad doesn’t freeze well because of the delicate texture and freshness of the ingredients.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over low-medium heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain juicy texture. Serve the salad fresh and cold for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and often more forgiving on the grill. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs can take longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
The key is fresh lime juice tossed with the avocado right after dicing. The lime’s acidity slows down oxidation, keeping that beautiful green color longer.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can easily cook the chicken on a grill pan or even bake it in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes. Just ensure it’s cooked through and nicely browned.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Definitely! Sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even corn can bring extra crunch and sweetness, but keep it balanced so the avocado and tomato flavors still shine.
Is this recipe keto or low-carb friendly?
Yes, this combination of grilled chicken with fresh avocado tomato salad fits perfectly into low-carb and keto diets thanks to its healthy fats and lean protein.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about the harmony of flavors and textures in the Grilled Chicken with Fresh Avocado Tomato Salad Recipe. It’s fresh, vibrant, and comforting all at once. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or serving it to friends on the weekend, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite summer meal!
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Grilled Chicken with Fresh Avocado Tomato Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Grilled Chicken With Fresh Avocado Tomato Salad is a vibrant and healthy meal that combines juicy, well-seasoned grilled chicken breasts with a refreshing salad of ripe avocado, sweet cherry tomatoes, crisp red onion, lime juice, and fresh cilantro. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this dish is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and balances protein with wholesome fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (6–8 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2–3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
For the Avocado Tomato Salad
- 2 pieces Ripe Avocados, diced
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- 1 small Red Onion, finely chopped (soaked in cold water to mellow flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice
- 1 handful Fresh Cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Coat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts thoroughly with this mixture to ensure flavor and moisture retention during cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. This will allow for a good sear and proper cooking of the chicken breasts without drying them out.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring the meat is cooked through but still juicy. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes.
- Prepare the Salad: While the chicken is grilling, combine the diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion in a mixing bowl. Add the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro, then gently toss the ingredients to coat and blend the flavors.
- Assemble and Serve: Plate the grilled chicken breasts alongside or on top of the fresh avocado tomato salad. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm grilled chicken and cool, refreshing salad.
Notes
- Use ripe avocados that are slightly soft to the touch for the best texture and flavor in the salad.
- Soaking red onion in cold water for 10 minutes reduces its sharpness and adds a pleasant mild crunch.
- Resting the grilled chicken after cooking allows juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
- For added zest, consider sprinkling extra lime juice over the grilled chicken just before serving.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted to accommodate various dietary preferences.
