Looking for a light, flavorful, and easy-to-make summer dinner? This Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa is the answer! Tender, juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with a vibrant and creamy avocado salsa create a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend barbecue, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
What is Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa?
Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a delightful culinary creation that combines the smoky char of perfectly grilled chicken with the fresh, zesty flavors of homemade avocado salsa. This recipe offers a healthy and balanced meal option, ideal for warm weather gatherings or a simple, satisfying dinner any day of the week.
The combination of lean protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the avocado makes it a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s incredibly versatile, lending itself well to variations and substitutions based on personal preferences and available ingredients. Give this recipe a try and experience a burst of summer flavors in every bite!
Key Ingredients for Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa:
For the Grilled Chicken:
- Chicken Breasts: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for marinating the chicken.
- Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons, fresh lime juice for flavor and tenderizing.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, for seasoning the chicken.
- Chili Powder: 1/2 teaspoon, for a touch of warmth.
- Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon, adds earthy flavor.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste.
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste.
For the Avocado Salsa:
- Avocados: 2 ripe avocados, diced.
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced, adds a sharp bite.
- Tomato: 1 medium tomato, seeded and diced. Roma or cherry tomatoes work well.
- Jalapeño: 1/2, seeded and finely minced (optional, for heat).
- Cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro.
- Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons, fresh lime juice, brightens the flavors.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste.
- Black Pepper: 1/8 teaspoon, or to taste.
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa:
This recipe is incredibly easy and quick, perfect for those busy weeknights! The flavorful marinade tenderizes the chicken while the simple avocado salsa adds a burst of freshness. The preparation time is around 15 minutes, and the cooking time is only about 15-20 minutes, making it a delicious and satisfying meal ready in under 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
Prepare the Avocado Salsa: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the avocado salsa. In a medium bowl, gently combine the diced avocados, red onion, tomato, jalapeño (if using), and chopped cilantro.
Season the Salsa: Add the lime juice, salt, and pepper to the avocado mixture. Gently stir to combine, being careful not to mash the avocados too much. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Set aside.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them on the preheated grill. Discard any remaining marinade.
Cook the Chicken: Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Slice and Serve: Slice the grilled chicken breasts against the grain and arrange them on plates. Top with generous portions of the avocado salsa.
Garnish & Serve( Optional): Garnish with extra cilantro or a wedge of lime for serving and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa:
This Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a guaranteed winner! The main highlight is the combination of smoky grilled chicken and the creamy, refreshing avocado salsa. The contrast in textures and temperatures is simply divine. Making this dish at home is also a huge cost saver compared to ordering it at a restaurant. You control the quality of the ingredients and can tailor the flavors to your liking. The special touches are definitely the fresh lime juice and cilantro in the salsa, which brighten up all the flavors and make it utterly irresistible.
If you’re a fan of Mexican-inspired flavors, you might also enjoy our recipe for Black Bean Salsa Chicken Bowls, but trust us, this avocado salsa takes chicken to a whole new level! Try making this Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa tonight and experience the perfect summer dinner.
What to Serve Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa With:
This Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: A classic summer side dish that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
- Black Beans and Rice: A simple and satisfying side that adds a hearty element to the meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A light and healthy side dish with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Tortilla Chips and Guacamole: Another great way to enjoy the flavors of avocado!
- Margaritas or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages that pair well with the Mexican-inspired flavors.
Top Tips for Perfecting Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa:
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C) and remove it from the grill immediately after.
- Use ripe avocados: Make sure your avocados are ripe but not mushy for the best salsa. You should be able to gently press into the avocado and it should yield slightly.
- Spice Level : Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the salsa to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can omit it altogether.
- Marinate for Flavor: For a deeper, more complex flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Lime Zest: Add lime zest to the marinade and salsa to enhance the citrus notes.
- Vinegar Substitute: Try using a splash of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar if short of lime juice.
- Garlic Variations: Incorporate roasted or smoked garlic for a richer depth.
Health Benefits of Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa:
This Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits! The grilled chicken provides a lean source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair. Avocados are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. They also provide a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
The fresh vegetables in the salsa, such as tomatoes and onions, are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, which help boost the immune system. Plus, grilling the chicken instead of frying it reduces the amount of added fat, making this a healthier alternative to many other chicken recipes. It’s a balanced and nutritious meal option that you can feel good about serving to your family.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing Leftovers:
- Grilled Chicken: Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Avocado Salsa: Avocado salsa is best enjoyed fresh, as avocados tend to brown over time. However, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To help prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salsa before sealing the container.
Note; It’s best to store the chicken and salsa separately to prevent the salsa from making the chicken soggy.
Reheating:
- Grilled Chicken:
- Microwave: Reheat the chicken in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.
- Oven: For a more even reheat, wrap the chicken in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Cook the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, or until heated through.
- Avocado Salsa: It is not generally recommended to reheat avocado salsa. However, if you need to use it immediately, it is best eaten cold to preserve the freshest flavour.
- Freezing: Freezing Grilled Chicken is possible, wrap pieces individually and store for upto 2 months. Salsa will not freeze well, the water content will affect avocados texture.
Final Thoughts:
This Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a fantastic way to enjoy a light, flavorful, and healthy meal. The combination of grilled chicken and fresh avocado salsa is simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a summer barbecue, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices to make it your own.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa Faqs:
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs! They will require a slightly longer cooking time, so make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they are fully cooked.
Q: Can I make the avocado salsa ahead of time?
A: It’s best to make the avocado salsa close to serving time to prevent the avocados from browning. However, you can chop the other ingredients (red onion, tomato, jalapeño, cilantro) ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the salsa.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the salsa?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like corn, black beans, mango, or bell peppers to the salsa for added flavor and texture.
Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: You can increase the amount of jalapeño in the salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade for an extra kick.
Q: Is there a good substitute for cilantro?
A: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley or even a little bit of fresh mint for a different flavor profile.