Why make this recipe
Grilled California Avocado Chicken is a perfect dish for anyone looking for a tasty and healthy meal. It combines juicy grilled chicken with creamy avocados and fresh veggies. This recipe is packed with flavor and offers a balance of protein and healthy fats. It’s easy to make, and you can prepare it for a family dinner or a weekend barbecue.
How to make Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Ingredients
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 California avocados (sliced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- Chopped cilantro
- Balsamic glaze
- Diced red onion
Directions
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken and coat it well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly.
Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is no longer pink inside.
Add Toppings: Once grilled, take the chicken off the grill. Top each piece with sliced avocados, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Let it sit for a minute for the cheese to melt slightly.
Serve: Drizzle balsamic glaze on top and sprinkle with chopped cilantro and diced red onion before serving.
How to serve Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Serve this delicious dish hot off the grill. It pairs well with a fresh salad or some grilled veggies. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
How to store Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes.
Tips to make Grilled California Avocado Chicken
- For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- If you prefer, you can grill the avocados briefly just until grill marks appear.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite toppings such as jalapeños for some heat, or switch the cheese for feta for a different taste. You can also use different herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure that it is fully thawed before marinating and grilling.
2. How can I make this recipe spicy?
Add chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to switch to your favorite cheese, or even omit it for a dairy-free option.
4. What can I serve with Grilled California Avocado Chicken?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides like rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing salad.
Grilled California Avocado Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious and healthy meal combining grilled chicken, creamy avocados, and fresh veggies, perfect for family dinners or barbecue.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 California avocados (sliced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- Chopped cilantro
- Balsamic glaze
- Diced red onion
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken and coat it well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is no longer pink inside.
- Once grilled, take the chicken off the grill and top each piece with sliced avocados, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Let it sit for a minute for the cheese to melt slightly.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze on top and sprinkle with chopped cilantro and diced red onion before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also grill the avocados briefly for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American