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Grilled California Avocado Chicken Recipe

5 from 106 reviews

This Grilled California Avocado Chicken recipe features juicy, marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection and topped with creamy California avocados, fresh cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal any time of the year.

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

  1. 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 it well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to absorb.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking during cooking.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, ensuring a nice sear develops. Avoid flipping frequently. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  4. Add Toppings: Once the chicken is cooked, top each piece with sliced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Close the grill lid for 1 to 2 minutes to gently melt the cheese over the toppings.
  5. Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken to serving plates. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or a drizzle of balsamic glaze and optionally diced red onion. Serve immediately alongside your choice of sides for a delicious meal.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken longer enhances the flavor and tenderness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without drying out.
  • Substitute Monterey Jack cheese for mozzarella if preferred.
  • Optional toppings add fresh brightness and additional flavor.
  • This recipe works great with chicken thighs as an alternative to breasts.

Keywords: grilled chicken, avocado chicken, California avocado, healthy chicken recipe, grilled dinner, summer chicken, easy grilled chicken