Enjoy Grilled California Avocado Chicken for a Flavorful Meal!

Get ready to fire up the grill and savor the delicious, vibrant flavors of Grilled California Avocado Chicken. This dish is a perfect blend of juicy, marinated chicken, creamy California avocados, and fresh, colorful toppings. Not only is it a mouthwatering meal, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits from the lean protein and heart-healthy fats. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a showstopping entree for your next backyard barbecue, this Grilled California Avocado Chicken is sure to impress.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Grilled California Avocado Chicken

To make this flavorful and nutritious dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. For the chicken and marinade, you’ll use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, olive oil, fresh lime juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. The star toppings are sliced California avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, and shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese. Optional garnishes include chopped cilantro, balsamic glaze, and diced red onion.

The key to this recipe is the use of fresh, high-quality California avocados. These creamy, nutrient-dense fruits add a wonderful creaminess and richness to the dish, as well as a dose of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and antioxidants. Paired with the tender, flavorful chicken, the avocados create a truly satisfying and nourishing meal.

Preparing the Marinade

The first step in creating Grilled California Avocado Chicken is to prepare the simple, yet flavor-packed marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with delicious seasonings, but it also helps to tenderize the meat, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result on the grill.

Marinating the Chicken

Once the marinade is ready, place the chicken breasts or thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it is evenly coated. Cover or seal the bag and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more time the flavors have to penetrate the meat, resulting in an even more delicious final dish.

Grilling the Chicken

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it directly on the hot grill. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). During the last 2 minutes of grilling, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chicken pieces, close the grill lid, and let the cheese melt and get bubbly.

Adding the Toppings

As soon as the chicken is off the grill, top it with the sliced California avocados and halved cherry tomatoes. The warmth of the just-grilled chicken will help the avocado slices become deliciously creamy. For an optional finishing touch, you can drizzle the dish with a balsamic glaze and sprinkle it with chopped cilantro and diced red onion.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled California Avocado Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light and flavorful rice or quinoa dish. This meal also complements grilled or roasted potatoes, corn on the cob, or a simple side of steamed broccoli. For a refreshing beverage, try pairing it with a crisp white wine, a light beer, or a citrusy non-alcoholic mocktail.

FAQs about Grilled California Avocado Chicken

What is California grilled chicken?

California grilled chicken refers to chicken that has been marinated and grilled, then topped with fresh California avocados and other vibrant ingredients. The California avocados add a creamy, nutrient-dense element to the dish.

Is avocado and chicken a good combo?

Yes, avocado and chicken make an excellent flavor and texture combination. The creamy, healthy fats in the avocado pair perfectly with the lean protein in the chicken, creating a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

How many calories are in grilled chicken and avocado?

The exact calorie count can vary depending on the portion sizes, but a serving of Grilled California Avocado Chicken typically contains around 400-500 calories. The avocado and chicken provide a good balance of healthy fats, protein, and complex carbohydrates to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

What is a good grilled chicken marinade?

The marinade used in this Grilled California Avocado Chicken recipe is a simple, yet flavorful combination of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. This marinade helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with a variety of seasonings that complement the avocado and other toppings.

Conclusion

Grilled California Avocado Chicken is a fresh, vibrant, and nutritious summertime meal that’s sure to delight your taste buds. With its juicy, marinated chicken, creamy California avocados, and colorful toppings, this dish is a winning combination of flavor and healthfulness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, give this Grilled California Avocado Chicken a try. Your family and friends are sure to love it!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Classic Chicken Salad
• Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch
• Cucumber Avocado Salad

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