Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 76 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 0h 45m
  • Cook Time: 0h 12m
  • Total Time: 0h 57m
  • Yield: 2 to 3 main course servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. Dress the salad base: Drizzle about half the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly, reserving some dressing for the chicken.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  11. 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).