Grilled California Avocado Chicken

Short Description

Juicy grilled chicken topped with creamy California avocado, fresh cherry tomatoes, and melted cheese—bright, flavorful, and perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The zing of lime and garlic in the marinade pairs beautifully with rich avocado and juicy tomatoes.
• Quick and Easy: About 30 minutes prep (including marinating) and minimal cooking time.
• Customizable: Adapt toppings to your taste—opt for different cheeses or add herbs and sauces.
• Visually Stunning: Beautifully vibrant presentation with fresh colors and textures.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll Find The Full List Of Ingredients And Measurements In The Recipe Card Below.)

For the Chicken & Marinade

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Toppings

• 2 California avocados, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

Optional Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro
• Balsamic glaze
• Diced red onion

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken
   In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken and coat well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill
   Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken
   Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for 6–7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and you’ve got a good sear. Avoid frequent flipping.
4. Add Toppings
   Once cooked, top each piece with sliced avocado, cherry tomato halves, and shredded cheese. Close the grill lid for 1–2 minutes to let the cheese melt slightly.
5. Serve
   Transfer to plates and garnish as desired with cilantro, balsamic glaze, or red onion. Serve immediately—great with fresh sides like salads, rice, or grilled veggies.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marination time)
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
• Cook Time: About 12–14 minutes
• Total Time: 42 minutes to about 4.5 hours (depending on marinating)

Variations

• Cheese Options: Try pepper Jack for a spicy kick, or queso fresco for a milder touch.
• Extra Toppings: Add sliced jalapeño, crumbled feta, or fresh corn kernels for more flavor complexity.
• Marinade Twist: Replace lime with lemon juice or add a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Healthier Option: Skip cheese, or use a reduced-fat version and skip the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm chicken gently in the oven or grill pan (about 5 minutes) and top with fresh avocado and tomatoes before serving.

FAQs

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes—thighs stay juicy and are slightly more forgiving on the grill.

What If I Don’t Have a Grill?

Broil in the oven on high heat, or use a stovetop grill pan to get similar results.

Will Avocado Turn Brown?

Squeeze a little lime juice over the slices to help preserve the bright green color.

Can I Use Pre-shredded Cheese?

Yes—just note that it may melt faster and a little differently than fresher shredded cheese.

Is the Marinade Spicy?

Not particularly. To add mild heat, toss in a pinch of chili powder or cayenne.

Can I Make This Ahead?

You can marinate the chicken in advance, but wait to add avocado and tomatoes until just before serving to keep them fresh.

Conclusion

Grilled California Avocado Chicken brings together juicy, flavorful chicken with creamy avocado, vibrant tomatoes, and melty cheese for a dish that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious. Quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s bound to become a mealtime favorite.

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