Description
A vibrant and satisfying Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad combining smoky marinated grilled chicken with fresh mixed greens, ripe avocado, juicy tomatoes, crunchy nuts, and a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing. Perfect for a healthy main course that balances protein, healthy fats, and refreshing vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
For the grilled chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g total)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin (optional but recommended)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, spring mix, or baby spinach), washed and dried
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large ripe avocado, sliced or cubed
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
- 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or lime juice for a brighter flavor)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced or grated
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1–2 tbsp water, as needed to thin
Optional garnish:
- Extra lemon or lime wedges
- Extra herbs (cilantro or parsley)
- Pinch of chili flakes for heat
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Marinate the chicken: Slice thick chicken breasts horizontally into thin cutlets for even cooking, then pat dry. Place chicken in a shallow dish or resealable bag and coat thoroughly with marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Prepare the grill or grill pan: Preheat an outdoor grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan using a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place on the hot grill and cook 4–6 minutes per side until nicely charred and internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C. Avoid moving too often to get good grill marks.
- Rest and slice the chicken: Transfer grilled chicken to a plate or board and let rest 5–10 minutes so juices redistribute. Slice into strips or bite-sized pieces against the grain.
- Prepare the salad components: While chicken grills or rests, assemble salad by combining mixed greens, halved tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion in a large bowl. Toss gently.
- Make the dressing: In a jar or small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon/lime juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until emulsified and slightly thickened. Thin with 1-2 tbsp water if needed. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Dress the salad base: Drizzle about half the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly, reserving some dressing for the chicken.
- Add avocado, cheese, and crunch: Gently add avocado slices or cubes to the salad, sprinkle crumbled feta, add toasted pumpkin seeds or almonds, and scatter chopped cilantro or parsley on top.
- Assemble with the grilled chicken: Arrange sliced grilled chicken over the salad. Lightly drizzle remaining dressing over the chicken. Garnish with extra herbs, chili flakes, and lemon or lime wedges if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately while chicken is warm, for best contrast of flavors and temperatures. Offer extra dressing on the side. Suitable as a main course for 2–3 people or lighter option for 3–4.
Notes
- For best flavor and juiciness, do not skip marinating the chicken.
- Use freshly ground black pepper and fresh lemon juice for optimal taste.
- To toast nuts, dry roast pumpkin seeds or almonds in a pan over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant.
- Grill marks add flavor and texture, so avoid flipping chicken too often.
- Avocado should be added last to avoid mashing and browning.
- Adjust the dressing thickness by adding water gradually to suit your preference.
- This salad is great for meal prep if you keep components separate and assemble before eating.
- Can substitute grilled chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option (adjust diet accordingly).
