Introduction
Grilled California avocado chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich, creamy texture of ripe avocados with juicy, marinated chicken. This recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
The combination of grilled chicken and avocado not only pleases the palate but also packs a nutritional punch. With healthy fats from the avocado and lean protein from the chicken, this dish supports a balanced diet while satisfying your cravings.
Whether you're cooking for a family or entertaining friends, this grilled California avocado chicken is sure to impress. Let's dive into the ingredients and get started on this mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 2 ripe California avocados, halved and pitted
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for grilling chicken and achieving those beautiful grill marks.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large 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 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the avocados. Scoop out a bit of the flesh to create a small well in each half, making space for the cheese. Brush the avocado halves lightly with olive oil and set aside.
- Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before grilling. This helps the chicken cook more evenly.
- Place the marinated chicken on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Avoid flipping the chicken too often to achieve nice grill marks.
- In the last few minutes of grilling, place the avocado halves on the grill, cut side down. Grill for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly charred and warmed through.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist chicken.
- To serve, place each grilled chicken breast on a plate and top with a grilled avocado half. Fill the well with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for garnish. Enjoy!
FAQs
What if my avocados are not ripe enough?
If your avocados are too firm, leave them at room temperature for a day or two until they soften.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well and can add additional flavor and moisture.
What if my chicken is overcooked?
If your chicken is overcooked, try serving it with a sauce or dressing to add moisture.
How can I add more flavor to the chicken?
Consider adding additional spices or herbs to the marinade, like paprika or fresh lime zest.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can easily cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or bake it in the oven.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Monterey Jack or feta cheese would also complement the dish nicely.
What can I do if the avocados are too soft?
If your avocados are overly ripe, handle them gently to avoid mashing and consider using them only as a topping.
Conclusion
Grilled California avocado chicken is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal packed with flavor. The combination of grilled chicken and creamy avocado creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love.
With its simple preparation and vibrant ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy your culinary creation and the compliments that follow!
Recipe Card
Grilled California Avocado Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for grilling chicken and achieving those beautiful grill marks.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large 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 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the avocados. Scoop out a bit of the flesh to create a small well in each half, making space for the cheese. Brush the avocado halves lightly with olive oil and set aside.
- Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before grilling. This helps the chicken cook more evenly.
- Place the marinated chicken on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Avoid flipping the chicken too often to achieve nice grill marks.
- In the last few minutes of grilling, place the avocado halves on the grill, cut side down. Grill for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly charred and warmed through.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist chicken.
- To serve, place each grilled chicken breast on a plate and top with a grilled avocado half. Fill the well with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for garnish. Enjoy!
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
