Description
Mediterranean sunshine dances through this Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad, blending zesty herbs with succulent grilled chicken and creamy avocado. Fresh ingredients create a light, nutritious meal perfect for summer dining when you crave something delicious and wholesome.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings and Dressing Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Fresh Produce:
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup lettuce or mixed greens (optional)
Instructions
- Massage chicken with a blend of fragrant spices, creating a flavorful coating using olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook chicken on a hot grill or skillet, maintaining medium heat and rotating to achieve a golden-brown exterior and ensure thorough internal cooking.
- Allow chicken to rest and settle, which helps retain moisture and tenderness before slicing into elegant strips.
- Prepare a vibrant salad base by combining creamy avocado chunks, burst-like cherry tomatoes, and fresh cilantro leaves.
- Optional: Enhance the salad’s volume and nutrition by incorporating crisp lettuce or mixed greens.
- Craft a zesty dressing by whisking together olive oil, tangy lime juice, sweet honey, sharp Dijon mustard, and a balanced seasoning of salt and pepper.
- Arrange sliced chicken atop the colorful salad mixture, distributing protein evenly throughout the dish.
- Gently cascade the prepared dressing over the salad, carefully tossing to ensure every ingredient is lightly coated and harmoniously blended.
- Present immediately to preserve freshness and enjoy the dynamic flavors and textures of this vibrant meal.
Notes
- Marinate chicken in advance for deeper flavor infusion by letting spices sit on meat for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.
- Swap honey with agave nectar for vegan version or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Keep avocado fresh by adding it just before serving to prevent browning and maintain crisp texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 29 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg