This grilled chicken salad with avocado is fresh, healthy, and packed with protein. Perfect for meal prep, weight loss, or an easy weeknight dinner. Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy (ready in under 30 minutes)
- Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Budget-friendly with simple ingredients
- Customizable for low-carb or dairy-free diets
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, arugula, or spring mix)
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar or crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions (H2)
- Season the chicken:
Brush chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. - Grill the chicken:
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until fully cooked and grill marks appear. - Rest and slice:
Remove chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into strips. - Prepare the salad base:
In a large bowl, add salad greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado slices. - Make the dressing:
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. - Assemble:
Top salad with sliced grilled chicken, drizzle with dressing, and sprinkle with cheese if using.
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Tips & Variations
- Protein swap: Use grilled shrimp or salmon instead of chicken.
- Cheese-free: Skip cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Meal prep: Store grilled chicken separately and assemble fresh.
- Avoid overcooking: Use a meat thermometer (165°F / 74°C) for juicy chicken.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast
- Pair with a light soup for a complete meal
- Present on a large platter for gatherings or BBQs
Nutrition Facts
Approximate per serving
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 26g
Conclusion
This Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado is the perfect balance of fresh, hearty, and healthy. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch, this recipe delivers every time. Save it, print it, and share it with friends who love easy, wholesome meals.
FAQ Section
Can I freeze this recipe?
The grilled chicken can be frozen, but the salad and avocado should always be prepared fresh.
How do I make it ahead of time?
Grill the chicken and prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance. Assemble just before serving.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, mozzarella, goat cheese, or parmesan all work well.
Is this salad low carb?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates and suitable for low-carb diets.
What dressing works best?
Lemon vinaigrette, balsamic dressing, or ranch all pair nicely.