Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa

Name: Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small red onion, diced; 1 jalapeño, minced (optional); Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Classics

I love preparing Healthy Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa for dinner because it’s a vibrant and wholesome meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the fresh, creamy avocado salsa, adding a delightful twist to my usual recipes. It's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Plus, the grilling brings out incredible flavors that are hard to resist!

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:29:35.479Z

When I first tried making grilled chicken with avocado salsa, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it turned out. Grilling the chicken brings out its natural juices, and the addition of lime juice in the salsa adds a refreshing zing that complements the dish beautifully. I like marinating the chicken for a little while to boost its flavor — it really makes a difference!

Adding diced tomatoes and red onion to the avocado salsa not only enhances the flavor but also provides a beautiful contrast in color. If you want a milder taste, feel free to remove the seeds from the jalapeño. It’s a dish that can easily be adapted to suit your taste and is sure to impress anyone you serve it to.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and flavorful avocado salsa adds a delightful crunch
Juicy chicken infused with zesty marinade
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for busy nights

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that infuses flavor and moisture into the meat. Using a simple blend of olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika not only enhances the taste but also helps keep the chicken juicy on the grill. I recommend allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes, but for deeper flavor, consider marinating it for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. This can significantly elevate the overall dish, making each bite bursting with flavor.

Ensure the chicken is evenly coated during marination. You can use a resealable plastic bag for easier mixing and marinating, allowing the spices to adhere better. If you're pressed for time, even a quick 10-minute marinate will add a pleasant zest, but sticking to longer periods will yield even tastier results.

Choosing Avocados for Salsa

The star of the avocado salsa is, of course, the avocado. It's essential to choose ripe avocados that yield gently to pressure when squeezed but aren't overly soft or brown inside. The best way to check for ripeness is by feeling the fruit; if it feels slightly firm with some give, it’s ready to use. For this recipe, you need two ripe avocados that will complement the texture of the diced tomatoes and add creaminess to the salsa.

Additionally, combining the avocados with fresh lime juice helps to maintain their vibrant green color and adds a zesty flavor. If you're making this salsa ahead of time, consider placing the diced avocado and lime juice in an airtight container to minimize oxidation. This simple trick helps ensure your salsa remains fresh and appealing until you're ready to serve it.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious meal.

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado Salsa

2 ripe avocados, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small red onion, diced
1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Prepare the Avocado Salsa

In another bowl, gently mix together the diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. Set aside.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.

Serve

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it topped with the avocado salsa and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your meal with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced mango to the salsa for a sweet twist.

Alternative Ingredients

If you're looking to modify the heat level of the avocado salsa, consider omitting the jalapeño if you prefer a milder version. Alternatively, a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a nice kick without the crunch of fresh jalapeños. Also, if cilantro isn’t your favorite herb, freshly chopped parsley can serve as a delightful substitute while maintaining the color and freshness of the salsa.

For those watching their carb intake, the grilled chicken can be served over a bed of greens, turning it into a hearty salad. Adding cooked quinoa or black beans can increase the protein and fiber content of the meal, making it even more nutritious while maintaining the satisfying flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa pairs wonderfully with fresh corn tortillas or brown rice, enhancing the wholesome, nutritious aspect of the meal. Adding a side of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, can provide more color and flavor. To amplify the dining experience, serve with a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea, which complements the zesty lime and fresh ingredients beautifully.

For a festive touch, consider topping the dish with crumbled feta or goat cheese. This adds a creamy, tangy element that contrasts nicely with the zesty salsa and juicy chicken. It's ideal for summer gatherings or barbecues when you want something fresh yet satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well and will be even juicier!

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add extra jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the salsa.

→ Can I prepare the salsa in advance?

Yes, you can make the salsa a few hours ahead, but be careful not to add the avocado until you’re ready to serve to prevent browning.

→ What side dishes go well with this chicken?

This chicken pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.