Grilled Avocado Chicken is a fresh and tasty dish that brings together juicy, smoky chicken with creamy avocado. The combination is simple but so satisfying—perfect for a warm day when you want something light but still filling. The chicken cooks up with a nice char that pairs great with the cool, buttery avocado slices.
I love making this dish because it feels like a little upgrade to everyday grilled chicken. Adding avocado makes it feel special without much extra effort. A quick tip: grill the chicken just right so it stays juicy, and then add the avocado at the last minute so it doesn’t get too soft or lose its bright flavor.
When I serve Grilled Avocado Chicken, I usually toss it on a bed of greens or alongside some grilled veggies. It also works really well inside a tortilla wrap for an easy lunch. Everyone I’ve shared it with ends up asking for the recipe, which always feels like a win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: These are the main protein, and boneless skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and grill well. If you prefer, chicken thighs also work great and stay juicy.
Olive oil & spices: Olive oil helps the marinade soak in and keeps the chicken moist. The chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder add a smoky, mild kick. You can swap chili powder for smoked chipotle powder if you want more heat.
Avocado: A ripe but firm avocado is best to keep its shape on top of the chicken. If you can’t find ripe avocados, try adding sliced cucumbers or a creamy salsa instead.
Lime juice & cilantro: These fresh ingredients brighten up the avocado topping and balance the smoky spices. No cilantro? Try parsley or basil for a different fresh twist.
How Do You Grill Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken breasts can be tricky because they dry out easily. Here’s how I keep mine tender and juicy:
- Pat chicken dry before marinating, so the marinade sticks well.
- Marinate for at least 15 minutes to add flavor and moisture, but don’t go over an hour to avoid a mushy texture.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high for nice sear marks without burning.
- Grill chicken about 5-7 minutes per side, flipping once. Use a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) means it’s done.
- Let the chicken rest 3-5 minutes before slicing to keep juices inside.
Following these tips helps make sure your chicken is flavorful and juicy every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I recommend this because it gives the chicken nice grill marks and smoky flavor.
- Small mixing bowls – for making the marinade and avocado topping, and they’re easy to clean.
- Tongs or a spatula – to flip the chicken easily without piercing the meat and losing juices.
- Meat thermometer – helps you cook the chicken perfectly and avoid dryness.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping avocado, tomato, and cilantro.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu—grill these for a different protein option that still pairs well with avocado.
- Add shredded cheese, like pepper jack or feta, on top of avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Include chopped red onion or jalapeños in the avocado topping for a bit of heat and crunch.
- Use lime and cilantro, or swap with lemon and parsley, depending on your favorite fresh herbs and citrus.
Grilled Avocado Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Avocado Topping:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 small tomato, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and marinate the chicken, plus 10-15 minutes to grill the chicken breasts until they’re juicy and cooked through. You can also let the chicken marinate up to 1 hour ahead for extra flavor. All together, plan for about 25-30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade and Prepare Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub the marinade evenly over the chicken and let them sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the fridge if you want more flavor.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Heat your grill to medium-high. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach 165°F (75°C) inside. Once done, remove from the grill and let the chicken rest a few minutes to keep it juicy.
3. Prepare Avocado Topping and Serve:
While the chicken rests, combine diced avocado, tomato, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt (and crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat) in a small bowl. Toss gently to mix. Spoon this fresh topping over each grilled chicken breast and serve right away. Enjoy with your favorite sides or a salad!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before marinating and grilling. This helps ensure even cooking and the best texture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken and avocado topping separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently on the grill or in a pan, then add fresh avocado topping before serving to keep it creamy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken up to 1 hour ahead. It’s best to grill the chicken and prepare the avocado topping right before eating to keep the avocado fresh and bright.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve With Grilled Avocado Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple green salads, grilled vegetables, rice, or even wrapped up in a tortilla for a tasty sandwich or taco.
