Name: Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490674H21M48S
Total time: PT-490674H21M48S
Cuisine: American / California-style
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; 4 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese; 2 ripe avocados, sliced; 2 fresh tomatoes, sliced or diced; Fresh basil or cilantro (optional); Balsamic glaze or fresh lime juice for finishing

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Grilled California Avocado Chicken is a fresh, flavorful, and protein-packed dish that’s perfect for warm weather or when I want something satisfying but light. Juicy grilled chicken breasts are topped with creamy avocado, ripe tomatoes, and gooey melted cheese—finished with a touch of balsamic or lime for a zesty twist. It’s the kind of simple, wholesome meal I love making on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together clean, real ingredients with bold, fresh flavor. The chicken is seasoned and grilled to perfection, while the avocado adds creaminess and the tomato brings a juicy, vibrant bite. The melted cheese ties everything together. It’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and incredibly versatile. Whether I serve it on its own, over a salad, or with rice, it’s always a hit.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt and black pepper
Mozzarella or provolone cheese slices
Ripe avocados, sliced
Fresh tomatoes, sliced or diced
Fresh basil or cilantro (optional)
Balsamic glaze or fresh lime juice (for finishing)

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
I preheat the grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat and grill the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.
During the last minute of grilling, I top each chicken breast with a slice of cheese and cover the grill to melt it.
I remove the chicken from the grill and top with fresh avocado and tomato slices.
I drizzle with balsamic glaze or squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, and finish with chopped herbs if I have them on hand.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 25–30 minutes total—10 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to grill and assemble. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for guests.

Variations

Sometimes I swap mozzarella for pepper jack to give it a little kick, or I add red onion slices for more bite. For a dairy-free version, I simply leave off the cheese and load up on avocado and herbs. This chicken is also great chopped over a salad or wrapped in lettuce for a light lunch.

Storage/reheating

I store leftover chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days, separately from the avocado and tomato to keep everything fresh. To reheat, I warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave, then add fresh toppings just before serving. It’s not ideal for freezing due to the fresh produce, but the cooked chicken alone freezes well.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes. I bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked, then melt the cheese under the broiler.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Mozzarella and provolone melt well and have a mild flavor, but I’ve also used Monterey Jack or even Swiss. Use what I like best.

How do I keep avocados from browning?

I slice the avocado right before serving and toss it in a little lime juice if I need to prep ahead—it helps keep it green.

Can I make this dish ahead?

I cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just before serving, I reheat it and add the fresh toppings.

What can I serve with this dish?

I usually serve it with grilled veggies, rice, salad, or roasted potatoes. It’s also great over quinoa or in a sandwich wrap.

Conclusion

Grilled California Avocado Chicken is one of those meals I come back to again and again—fresh, fast, and full of flavor. With juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and melty cheese, it checks all the boxes for a perfect summer dinner or light yet satisfying lunch. It’s easy to customize and always tastes like sunshine on a plate.