Summery Grilled Avocado Chicken

This vibrant Grilled California Avocado Chicken has become my summer grilling staple. The combination of juicy grilled chicken topped with creamy avocado, fresh tomatoes, and melty cheese creates a protein-packed meal that's both satisfying and bursting with flavor.

I first created this recipe during a backyard cookout when friends dropped by unexpectedly. Everyone raved about it so much that it's now requested at every summer gathering we host.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provide the perfect canvas for our toppings and marinade; the meat stays juicy when grilled properly
• Fresh lime juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken naturally
• California avocados: Bring creamy richness; look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure
• Cherry tomatoes: Offer sweet acidity that balances the richness of the avocado and cheese
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistible melty texture; choose whole milk for best flavor
• Paprika and cumin: Provide smoky depth without overpowering the fresh toppings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:

Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined. The acid from the lime juice will tenderize the chicken while the spices infuse it with flavor. Make sure to really whisk until the oil and lime juice are temporarily emulsified.

Marinate the Chicken:

Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip top bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is fully coated by turning them several times. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes but no more than 4 hours as the lime juice can start to break down the meat too much.

Preheat and Prepare Grill:

Heat your grill to medium high heat around 375 – 400°F. Take the time to thoroughly clean and oil the grates which prevents sticking and gives you those beautiful grill marks. Let the grill fully heat before adding chicken.

Grill the Chicken:

Place marinated chicken on the hot grill and resist the urge to move it for at least 6 minutes. This ensures proper caramelization and those coveted grill marks. Flip once and cook another 6 – 7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should have a golden crust with clear grill marks.

Add the Toppings:

Once chicken is fully cooked, top each piece with sliced avocado arranged in a fan pattern, followed by halved cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese and close the grill lid for 1 – 2 minutes. The residual heat will gently warm the avocado and tomatoes while melting the cheese to perfection.

Rest and Serve:

Transfer to a serving platter and allow to rest for 2 – 3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken and the toppings to settle. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra flavor boost.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is watching the cheese melt over the vibrant green avocado and red tomatoes. My daughter calls it "sunset chicken" because the colors remind her of a California sunset, which makes perfect sense for this dish.

Perfect Sides for Serving

This Grilled California Avocado Chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without overpowering. A light arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil makes the perfect fresh counterpart. For something more substantial, consider cilantro lime rice which echoes the flavors in the chicken marinade while soaking up any delicious juices from the plate.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline the process. Marinate the chicken up to 4 hours in advance and prepare the toppings just before grilling. If you have leftovers, store the chicken separately from the avocado and tomatoes. Reheat the chicken gently in a 300°F oven before adding fresh toppings, as avocado doesn't maintain its texture well when reheated.

Variations to Try

This recipe welcomes creative adaptations based on what you have available. For a Southwestern twist, add a sprinkle of corn kernels and black beans to the topping. Prefer more heat? Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the marinade. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated by using dairy free cheese alternatives or even omitting the cheese entirely the avocado provides plenty of richness on its own.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work excellently in this dish! They typically have more flavor and stay juicier than breasts. You may need to adjust grilling time slightly - thighs usually require about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.

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

The safest way is to use an instant-read thermometer - chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Without a thermometer, ensure the juices run clear and the meat has no pink areas when cut into the thickest part.

→ What can I serve as sides with this dish?

This versatile main pairs beautifully with many sides. Try a simple green salad, cilantro-lime rice, grilled corn on the cob, roasted vegetables, or a light quinoa salad for a complete meal.

→ How do I pick perfectly ripe avocados?

Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren't soft. California avocados should have dark skin when ripe. If you have firm avocados, place them in a paper bag with a banana to speed ripening. For this dish, you want them firm enough to slice cleanly but ripe enough to be creamy.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. However, for best results, grill the chicken and add the toppings just before serving. Avocado oxidizes quickly once cut, so this dish is best enjoyed fresh rather than fully prepared ahead.

→ What cheese alternatives work well for this dish?

Beyond mozzarella and Monterey Jack, you could try pepper jack for added spice, crumbled cotija for a Mexican twist, or even a mild goat cheese. For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese entirely or use a plant-based alternative that melts well.