Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa

Name: Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 small red onion, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Bites

I love making Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa because it's not only delicious, but also incredibly satisfying. The vibrant flavors of fresh avocado and lime really elevate the grilled chicken, creating a dish that's perfect for summer barbecues or a healthy weeknight dinner. It’s an easy recipe that allows me to enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a wholesome choice for any day of the week.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-23T20:49:36.429Z

When I first tried this Healthy Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa, I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so flavorful. The key is to let the chicken marinate in lime juice and spices, which infuses it with moisture and taste. I found that even a quick 20-minute marinade can make a big difference; the chicken turns out juicy and tender.

As for the avocado salsa, I like to add a touch of diced red onion for extra crunch and color. It's refreshing and complements the chicken perfectly. The combination of flavors creates a dish that I often serve to guests, and they always ask for the recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tender, juicy chicken infused with zesty flavors
Creamy avocado salsa that adds a refreshing crunch
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight meals

Ingredient Insights

The marinade for the chicken is key to ensuring it is flavorful and moist. The combination of lime juice and olive oil not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with zesty freshness that complements the rich, smoky flavors from the grill. For a variation, try using lemon juice instead of lime, or add a teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness that will caramelize beautifully on the grill.

Cumin and chili powder bring warmth and depth to the chicken. If you don’t have these spices on hand, you can substitute them with a taco seasoning blend. Keep in mind that pre-mixed seasoning may contain salt, so adjust your salt level accordingly when marinating.

Salsa Magic

Avocado salsa not only enhances the grilled chicken but also adds a creamy texture that balances the dish. To perfectly ripe avocados, gently squeeze them; they should yield slightly without being mushy. If they are too firm, let them sit at room temperature for a day or two. For added freshness, consider mixing in diced mango or pineapple for a fruit twist that pairs delightfully with the lime.

The acidity of the lime juice in the salsa helps to preserve the vibrancy of the avocado while adding a refreshing tang. If you're preparing this in advance, to prevent the avocados from browning, try adding an extra splash of lime juice before storing them in an airtight container until you're ready to serve.

Grilling Tips

When grilling the chicken, it’s essential to preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F) to achieve those beautiful grill marks and seal in the juices. Avoid flipping the chicken too soon; it should release easily from the grill when it’s ready to turn. An internal temperature of 165°F is ideal; using a meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness without guesswork.

If you find your chicken is cooking unevenly, consider pounding the breasts to a uniform thickness before marinating. This technique not only promotes even cooking but also shortens the grilling time, giving you tender results in about 12-14 minutes total grilling time. You can use a plastic wrap and a meat mallet for this, which helps maintain cleanliness and reduces mess.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado Salsa

2 ripe avocados, diced
1 small red onion, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them evenly. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes.

Prepare the Salsa

In a separate bowl, combine diced avocados, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Toss gently and set aside.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

Serve

Slice the grilled chicken and top with the avocado salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, grill the chicken on a marinade of herbs and spices the night before. Serve with a side of brown rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of this recipe is that it can be easily prepped in advance. Marinate the chicken the night before to allow the flavors to meld and develop. You can also prepare the avocado salsa a few hours ahead; just be sure to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. If you plan to meal prep, this dish holds up well; the grilled chicken can last in the fridge for up to four days, and the salsa can be made fresh each time to maintain the best texture.

If you have leftovers, consider storing the chicken and salsa separately to keep the textures intact. The grilled chicken can also be sliced and added to salads or wraps throughout the week for easy lunches, making it versatile as well as nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve the grilled chicken and avocado salsa on a bed of quinoa or brown rice. This adds healthy grains to your plate, complementing the protein and healthy fats from the chicken and salsa. You can also pair it with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for added crunch and nutrients.

Don’t hesitate to customize your serving presentation. Serve the chicken on a warm tortilla for delicious tacos or over a nacho platter with tortilla chips, melted cheese, and topped with the avocado salsa for a fun twist.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the spices in the marinade. Adding smoked paprika will give the chicken a deeper smoky flavor, while a touch of cayenne or hot sauce can cater to spice lovers for an added kick. Alternatively, try marinating the chicken in yogurt for a creamy texture and unique tang that pairs beautifully with grilled dishes.

As for the salsa, consider incorporating additional ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or even black beans to add more texture and nutrition. Each twist can turn this dish into a completely new experience, ensuring it never feels repetitive while keeping it healthy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating to ensure even seasoning and cooking.

→ What can I substitute for cilantro?

If you're not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions work nicely as a substitute.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

→ Can I make the avocado salsa ahead of time?

It’s best to make the salsa fresh, as avocados can brown. If you need to prepare it early, add lime juice to help preserve the color.