Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad Recipe

This Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad is a fresh, healthy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, crisp greens, and a zesty lime dressing come together to create a vibrant and flavorful meal. It’s light yet filling, making it ideal for warm days or when you’re craving something nutritious and delicious.

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for grilling)
• 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, or romaine)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes , halved
• 1 cucumber , sliced
• 1 red onion , thinly sliced
• 2 ripe avocados , diced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the Lime Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 clove garlic , minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side , or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips or cubes.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.
2. Add the diced avocado and gently toss to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.

Step 3: Make the Lime Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more honey for sweetness or lime juice for tanginess.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. Divide the salad greens and vegetables among serving bowls or plates.
2. Top each portion with sliced grilled chicken and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
3. Drizzle the lime dressing evenly over the salads.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve immediately as a refreshing and wholesome meal. Add a slice of crusty bread or garlic knots on the side if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Add-ins: Customize the salad with extras like roasted corn, black beans, shredded carrots, or toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu, chickpeas, or tempeh, and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
• Meal prep: Grill the chicken and chop the veggies ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the salad just before serving.
• Dressing variations: Swap lime juice for lemon juice or add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4):

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~15g
• Fat: ~22g

Enjoy this Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad as a nutrient-packed meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors and textures. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for fueling your body with wholesome ingredients!