Grilled Avocado Chicken
Before diving into the culinary creation that is Grilled Avocado Chicken, let’s first explore what goes well with this delicious dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breast boneless and skinless (about 4 medium pieces)
For the Marinade:
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Juice of one lime
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon sea salt adjust to taste
- 2 cloves of garlic minced finely
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
For the Avocado Salsa:
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 2 small or 1 large ripe tomato chopped
- 2 ripe avocados diced
- Juice of one fresh lime
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro finely minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 jalapeño seeds removed and finely chopped (optional for heat)
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine all marinade ingredients: smoked paprika, black pepper, lime juice, honey, sea salt, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, cilantro, cumin, and chili flakes. Whisk until well combined and set aside. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse for your chicken!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least one hour, but if time allows, let it marinate overnight. The longer it sits, the more flavorful the chicken becomes.
Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Salsa
While the chicken marinates, prepare the avocado salsa. In a separate bowl, combine diced avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, and olive oil. Gently mix, being careful not to mash the avocado.
Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. If you like heat, toss in the jalapeño. This refreshingly zesty salsa brings the entire dish together.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
Place the chicken breasts on the grill, cooking for about 6 to 7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You want the chicken to have a nice char and be cooked through without drying out.
Step 6: Serve
Once grilled, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This resting period allows the juices to settle, making every bite succulent.
Serve the grilled chicken with a generous dollop of avocado salsa on top. Enjoy the vibrant colors and aromas, and watch it disappear quickly at your gathering!
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensuring the chicken is fully cooked lends to both safety and juiciness.
- Experiment with Marinades: If you enjoy experimenting, consider adding different herbs or spices to the marinade. Fresh dill or even a splash of soy sauce can lend unique flavors.
- Choose Ripe Avocados: Opt for avocados that are slightly soft to the touch. These will be easier to mash and will taste better.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling retains moisture and flavor.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh cilantro rather than dried for maximum flavor impact.
Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 35gFat: 25gFiber: 6g
Keyword Grilled Avocado Chicken