Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa

I love sharing this recipe for Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa because it's not only delicious but incredibly easy to make. The vibrant flavors of the grilled chicken paired with the creamy avocado salsa create a dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. I often prepare this on busy weeknights or when I have friends over, as it takes just a short time to cook and is sure to impress anyone at the table. Plus, it’s packed with healthy fats and protein, making it a great choice for any meal.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:25:35.872Z

When I first tried making grilled chicken at home, I was overwhelmed by how simple and flavorful it could be. What really makes this dish shine is the fresh ingredients used in the avocado salsa. I absolutely love how the ripe avocados blend together with lime, cilantro, and tomatoes, enhancing the smoky taste of the grilled chicken.

To ensure perfectly juicy chicken, I marinate it before grilling, which adds flavor and keeps it moist. Using a thermometer helps to avoid overcooking, and I always let the chicken rest before slicing. Trust me; these small steps make all the difference for a delightful meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and zesty avocado salsa elevates the flavor of the grilled chicken
Simple preparation makes it a perfect midweek meal
Packed with protein and healthy fats for a balanced dish

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step for tenderizing the meat and infusing it with flavor. The olive oil helps keep the chicken moist during grilling, while the garlic powder and paprika provide a robust taste. If you're short on time, even a 15-minute marination can make a difference; however, I recommend at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor. For best results, you can marinate overnight in the refrigerator to allow the spices to penetrate deeper into the meat.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with your marinade! If you're looking for a kick, try adding cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for some heat. You can also substitute lime juice for vinegar to add acidity, which further helps in tenderizing the chicken. Keep in mind that while citrus works well, it can toughen the meat if marinated too long—stick to the recommended time frame and enjoy the juicy results.

Crafting the Perfect Avocado Salsa

The avocado salsa not only adds zest but also a creamy texture that complements the smokiness of the grilled chicken. Use ripe avocados, as unripe ones will lack the desirable creaminess. If you find your avocado is slightly underripe, simply give it a day at room temperature to ripen. To prevent the avocado from browning in your salsa, the lime juice not only enhances flavor but also acts as a natural preservative, keeping the salsa fresh for longer.

Feel free to customize your salsa by adding diced jalapeños for an extra kick or a handful of corn for sweetness and crunch. Alternatively, if you're not a fan of tomatoes, substitute them with diced mango for a refreshing twist on the traditional preparation. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly—each ingredient's flavor profile will change the end result.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This Healthy Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa makes a versatile dish. You can serve it over a bed of leafy greens for a fresh salad or alongside quinoa for a hearty meal. If you're feeling creative, shred the chicken to make tacos topped with the avocado salsa for an easy, fun dinner option. The grilled chicken can also be sliced and added to wraps or grain bowls for lunch the next day, ensuring you make the most of your culinary efforts.

If you have leftovers (which might be rare!), store the chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The grilled chicken will last for up to 3 days, while the avocado salsa should be consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to maintain its moisture, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious healthy meal:

For the Grilled 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
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your healthy grilled chicken with avocado salsa:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Salsa

In a medium bowl, combine diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Add a pinch of salt and mix gently.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve topped with avocado salsa.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cumin or chili powder to the chicken marinade. Ensuring your grill is preheated will help achieve those beautiful grill marks and enhance the flavor.

Grilling Techniques

Achieving perfectly grilled chicken requires attention to heat and timing. Preheating your grill to medium-high is essential as it allows for proper searing, which locks in juices. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side; avoid the urge to flip too soon. Look for clear grill marks as a visual cue that it's time to turn. If the chicken tends to stick, ensure your grill grates are clean and oil them beforehand for easier release.

Using a meat thermometer is a game changer for grilling chicken. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast to ensure it reaches at least 165°F (75°C). If you frequently end up with dry chicken, consider trying bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts—they tend to retain moisture better during cooking and can impart more flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

For those watching their fat intake, you can replace the olive oil with a lighter option like avocado oil, which also offers a similar flavor profile. For the chicken, consider using turkey breasts or even tofu for a plant-based twist that still captures the core essence of this dish. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly as tofu will need to be pressed and marinated longer to yield optimal flavor.

Should you wish to boost the nutritional value further, you could add black beans or corn to your salsa. They not only provide fiber but also enhance the dish's overall texture. If cilantro isn't to your taste, try fresh basil or parsley instead—these serve as excellent substitutes that still lend a fresh note to the salsa.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use skin-on chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, skin-on chicken thighs will add extra flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

This recipe is already dairy-free as it uses chicken and vegetables only. Just ensure your seasoning is also dairy-free.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs wonderfully with brown rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I prepare the avocado salsa ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best made fresh to prevent the avocados from browning. If preparing early, add lime juice right before serving.