Grilled Chicken and Avocado Salad

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

grilled chicken avocado salad is a fresh, wholesome bowl that marries smoky, tender chicken with buttery avocado and crisp seasonal veggies. It’s special because you get satisfying lean protein, heart-healthy fats, and crunch in one vibrant dish—all lifted by a zesty homemade dressing. Juicy tomatoes, cool cucumber, and a bite of red onion keep every forkful lively and balanced. Quick tip: rest the grilled chicken 5 minutes before slicing; the juices redistribute so every slice stays moist and flavorful.

Ingredients

Salad

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless & skinless (about 1 lb / 450 g)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (2 g)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (2 g)
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 6 cups mixed salad greens (180 g)
• 1 large avocado, sliced (200 g)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
• 1 cucumber, sliced (200 g)
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (60 g)

Dressing

• 3 tbsp olive oil (45 ml)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (30 ml)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (5 g)
• 1 tsp honey (7 g)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the chicken: Pat dry. Rub with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let stand 10 minutes while you heat the grill.
2. Grill: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side until nicely charred and the center reaches 165°F (74°C). Rest 5 minutes, then slice.
3. Make the dressing: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and lightly thickened.
4. Build the salad: In a large bowl or platter, layer greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Fan the avocado slices over the top.
5. Finish & serve: Add sliced chicken, drizzle with dressing, and toss gently (or serve dressing on the side). Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if you like.

FAQs

Can I meal-prep this salad?

Yes. Store chicken, veggies, and dressing separately up to 3 days. Slice avocado and dress just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What can I use instead of the lemon dressing?

Balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy Greek-yogurt ranch both pair well with the smoky chicken and creamy avocado.

How do I keep chicken juicy on the grill?

Pound to even thickness, preheat the grill thoroughly, and avoid overcooking. Rest the meat before slicing to lock in juices.

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