I’m always looking for ways to take a simple, healthy meal and make it feel exciting. Plain grilled chicken can be so… boring! This Grilled California Avocado Chicken is my favorite way to give it a major upgrade. This easy avocado chicken recipe takes a simple, lean protein and turns it into a five-star meal by topping it with a “salsa” of fresh avocado, corn, and basil. It’s the best healthy grilled chicken you’ll ever make.
What makes this grilled california avocado chicken recipes so perfect is how vibrant and colorful it is. The honey garlic balsamic marinade makes the chicken incredibly flavorful and juicy, while the avocado tomato basil topping with fresh mozzarella cheese melt creates this amazing combination of creamy, fresh, and savory. This is keto-friendly with low-carb protein and healthy fats, making it perfect for healthy grilled chicken dinner ideas that actually taste indulgent. Plus, you can marinate for 30 minutes or up to 24 hours, so it works for both quick dinners and planned meals.
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Why You’ll Love This Grilled California Avocado Chicken
1. Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home – This California grilled chicken tastes like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant, but it’s incredibly easy to make at home. The honey garlic balsamic sauce creates layers of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that make the chicken absolutely incredible.
2. Healthy and Satisfying – This is one of those chicken breast dinner recipes healthy enough for meal prep but delicious enough for company. The combination of lean protein, healthy fats from avocado, and fresh vegetables makes it nutritious without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for trending chicken recipes that focus on clean eating.
3. Incredibly Versatile – Serve it as is for a complete meal, turn it into a grilled chicken and avocado sandwich, add it to salads for grilled chicken and avocado bowl, or slice it for wraps. This easy grilled california avocado chicken works for so many different meals, from August dinner meals to avocado dinners any time of year.
Ingredients for Grilled California Avocado Chicken
This california chicken recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to create a meal that tastes amazing. You’re making restaurant-quality grilled chicken with pantry staples and fresh toppings.
What You’ll Need
For the California Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Toppings:
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
Why These Ingredients Matter
Honey Garlic Balsamic Sauce – This marinade is the secret to incredibly flavorful chicken. The balsamic vinegar adds tanginess, the honey provides sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken on the grill, and the garlic brings savory depth. Together, they create this complex flavor that makes the chicken taste gourmet.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – These cook quickly and evenly on the grill, making them perfect for weeknight dinners. If you prefer, you can also make grilled california avocado chicken thighs, which are even more forgiving and stay juicy on the grill.
Avocado Tomato Basil Topping – This fresh topping is what makes it California chicken. The creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil create this amazing contrast with the warm, savory chicken. The fresh mozzarella cheese melt adds richness and ties everything together.
Instructions for Making Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper to create the grilled california avocado chicken marinade.
Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal and refrigerate. You can marinate for 30 minutes for a quick dinner, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
Step 5: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for approximately 6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear. Don’t move the chicken around too much, let it get those beautiful grill marks.
Step 6: During the last 2 minutes of cooking, top each chicken breast with fresh mozzarella slices. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt.
Step 7: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Step 8: Top each chicken breast with sliced avocado, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
Step 9: Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and the cheese is melty.
Hint: This grilled avocado chicken pairs perfectly with san giorgio lasagna recipe for a complete Italian-inspired meal, or turn it into best chicken avocado melt sandwich in 30 minutes for a different presentation.
Top Tip
Don’t Skip the Marinade – Even if you’re short on time, try to marinate for at least 30 minutes. The honey garlic balsamic sauce not only flavors the chicken but also helps keep it moist on the grill. Longer marinating (up to 24 hours) gives you even better flavor.
Get the Grill Hot – Make sure your grill is fully preheated before adding the chicken. You want to hear that sizzle when the chicken hits the grates. This creates a nice sear that locks in juices and prevents sticking.
Use a Meat Thermometer – The only way to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken is to check the internal temperature. Pull it off the grill right when it reaches 165°F in the thickest part. It will continue cooking slightly as it rests.
Let It Rest – Those 5 minutes of resting time allow the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken. If you cut into it immediately, all the juices run out and you’re left with dry meat. Resting ensures every bite is juicy.
My Grilled California Avocado Chicken Journey
I first made this recipe during a summer barbecue when I wanted something healthier than burgers but still exciting enough for guests. I combined my favorite California flavors with a simple balsamic marinade and hoped it would work. When I served it, everyone went crazy for it and asked for the recipe. The next day, I called Grandma to tell her about my success, and she said, “Jazzy, of course it was good! You used fresh ingredients and didn’t overthink it. Sometimes the best recipes are just good ingredients cooked simply.”
She was absolutely right. This recipe doesn’t need to be complicated because the flavors are so good on their own. Now this is my signature summer dish that I make for while 30 dinner ideas, work night dinners, and any time I want something that feels special but comes together easily. It’s become one of those easy chicken and avocado recipes that I recommend to everyone because it never fails to impress. Every time I make it, I remember that first barbecue and how Grandma’s advice to keep things simple really is the best approach.
Substitutions for Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Baked Avocado Chicken Recipes – If you don’t have a grill, bake the marinated chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until it reaches 165°F. Add the cheese for the last 3 minutes. The flavor is slightly different but still delicious, perfect for baked avocado chicken recipes when grilling isn’t an option.
Grilled California Avocado Chicken Thighs – Replace chicken breasts with boneless skinless chicken thighs. They’re more forgiving on the grill and stay incredibly juicy. Cook for about 7-8 minutes per side until they reach 165°F.
California Grilled Chicken Sandwich – Serve this in a bun with lettuce and mayo for a california grilled chicken sandwich. It’s perfect for casual dinners or lunch, and the flavors work beautifully in sandwich form.
Dairy-Free Version – Skip the mozzarella or use dairy-free cheese. The chicken is still amazing with just the avocado, tomato, and basil topping. This keeps it lighter and works for those avoiding dairy.
Variations on Grilled California Avocado Chicken
California Chicken Veggie Avocado Rice Bowl – Slice the grilled chicken and serve it over rice with the avocado, tomato, and extra grilled vegetables. Add some corn, black beans, and cilantro lime dressing for a california chicken veggie avocado rice bowl that’s perfect for meal prep.
California Grilled Chicken Avocado and Mango Salad – Turn this into a california grilled chicken avocado and mango salad by slicing the chicken and serving it over mixed greens with avocado, mango, and a citrus vinaigrette. The mango adds sweetness that complements the balsamic chicken perfectly.
California Chicken Avocado Flatbread – Use the grilled chicken, avocado, tomato, and mozzarella as toppings for flatbread. Bake until the cheese melts for a california chicken avocado flatbread that’s perfect for appetizers or light dinners.
California Chicken Wrap Avocado – Slice the chicken and wrap it in a large tortilla with the avocado, tomato, lettuce, and ranch dressing for a california chicken wrap avocado. This is perfect for packed lunches or quick dinners, similar to creamy white cheddar chicken pasta but in wrap form.
Grilled Chicken Burgers with Guacamole – Ground the chicken (or use ground chicken), form into patties, and grill with the same marinade flavors. Top with guacamole for grilled chicken burgers with guacamole that are healthier than beef burgers, similar to how you’d make amish hamburger steak bake but on the grill.
Equipment for Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Gas or Charcoal Grill – Either works great for this recipe. Gas grills offer more temperature control, while charcoal grills add a smoky flavor. Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before cooking.
Meat Thermometer – Essential for perfectly cooked chicken every time. An instant-read thermometer ensures you hit exactly 165°F without overcooking.
Large Zip-Top Bag or Shallow Dish – For marinating the chicken. A zip-top bag works great because you can flip it occasionally to ensure even marinating without using extra dishes.
Grill Tongs – Long-handled tongs keep your hands safe from the heat and make it easy to flip the chicken without piercing it (which would let juices escape).
Storage Tips for Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Refrigerator Storage – Store the grilled chicken separately from the fresh toppings. Keep cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Store avocado, tomato, and basil separately and add them fresh when serving.
Reheating Tips – Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Don’t overheat or it will dry out. Add the fresh toppings after reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Meal Prep for the Week – Grill several chicken breasts at once and store them plain. Throughout the week, slice and use them for grilled chicken and avocado bowl, sandwiches, salads, or wraps. Keep the marinade ingredients on hand to make more as needed.
Freezer Storage – The cooked chicken freezes well for up to 3 months, but don’t freeze it with the fresh toppings. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh avocado, tomato, and mozzarella when serving.
Grandma’s Secret for Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Grandma taught me the most important trick for grilling perfect chicken. “Jazzy,” she said while watching me prep for a barbecue, “the secret is to pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating. If one end is thick and the other is thin, you’ll get dry ends and raw middles. Even thickness means even cooking and juicy chicken every time.”
She was absolutely right. Now I always pound my chicken breasts to about 1 inch thick all the way across, and it makes such a difference. Her other secret is to save a little bit of the marinade before adding the raw chicken. You can reduce this reserved marinade in a small saucepan and use it as an extra drizzle on top of the finished chicken. It adds extra flavor without any food safety concerns. These simple tricks turn good grilled chicken into amazing california grilled chicken that rivals any restaurant.
FAQ about Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Is grilled chicken and avocado good for you?
Yes, grilled chicken and avocado is very healthy! Chicken breast is lean protein that’s low in calories and high in nutrients. Avocado provides healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Together, they create a balanced, nutritious meal that’s keto-friendly and great for weight management. The combination keeps you full and satisfied while supporting heart health and muscle maintenance.
What is California grilled chicken?
California grilled chicken is chicken topped with fresh, healthy ingredients commonly associated with California cuisine, like avocado, tomato, fresh mozzarella, and basil. It’s inspired by the fresh, light style of California cooking that emphasizes quality ingredients and vibrant flavors. The chicken is usually marinated in a flavorful sauce and grilled, then topped with these fresh ingredients.
What is California chicken?
California chicken is any chicken dish that features the fresh, healthy ingredients popular in California cuisine. This typically includes avocado, tomatoes, fresh cheese, and herbs. The term comes from California’s emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and lighter cooking styles. It can refer to grilled chicken, sandwiches, salads, or bowls that feature these signature toppings.
Do chicken and avocado go well together?
Yes, chicken and avocado are a perfect pairing! The lean protein of chicken complements the creamy, healthy fats of avocado. The mild flavor of chicken breast is enhanced by avocado’s rich, buttery texture. Nutritionally, they balance each other by providing both protein and healthy fats, making meals more satisfying. This combination is popular in salads, sandwiches, bowls, and wraps because the flavors and textures work so well together.
Conclusion
This Grilled California Avocado Chicken is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. Here’s to a meal that proves healthy eating can be incredibly exciting and absolutely packed with flavor. Say goodbye to boring chicken forever, this is your delicious new upgrade!
If you love chicken and avocado combinations, check out this Avocado Chicken Stir-Fry from Allrecipes for another delicious way to enjoy these flavors together.
Give this grilled california avocado chicken recipe a try and let me know what you think. Grandma and I love hearing about your grilling successes!
Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Equipment
- 1 Grill (Gas or Charcoal) Make sure the grates are nice and clean!
- 1 Medium Bowl For mixing up that magical marinade.
- 1 Large Zip-Top Bag or Shallow Dish For letting the chicken soak up all the flavor.
- 1 Meat thermometer Grandma's #1 rule: never guess! This is the only way to get perfectly juicy chicken.
Ingredients
For the California Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts About 6-8 oz each. (See Note 1)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic Minced. I can still smell this mixing with the honey!
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Toppings
- 2 ripe avocados Sliced.
- 2 large tomatoes Sliced.
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese Sliced. The good stuff in the brine, if you can find it.
- Fresh basil leaves For garnish.
- Balsamic glaze Optional, for an extra drizzle.
Instructions
- First things first, let's follow Grandma's best trick. Place the [4 boneless skinless chicken breasts] between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even 1-inch thickness. She always said, "Jazzy, even chicken means even cooking. No dry ends and raw middles!" This is the secret to juicy chicken every time.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the [1/4 cup balsamic vinegar], [3 tablespoons honey], [2 tablespoons olive oil], [3 cloves garlic, minced], [1 teaspoon dried basil], [1/2 teaspoon salt], and [1/4 teaspoon black pepper]. This honey garlic balsamic sauce is what makes the chicken so incredible. (See Note 2)
- Pour the marinade over your evenly-pounded chicken in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Make sure every piece is coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time (and Grandma always said it's worth it), let it go for up to 24 hours.
- Get your grill preheated to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). Grandma always said to get the grill good and hot before the food touches it. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off (discard that used marinade). Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 6 minutes per side. Try not to move it around, let it get those beautiful, charred grill marks.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, lay the [8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced] on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to get it all melty and wonderful. The chicken is done when a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
- This is the hardest part! Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This keeps all the juices inside. Now, top each piece with [2 ripe avocados, sliced], [2 large tomatoes, sliced], and a few [Fresh basil leaves].
- Drizzle with a little [Balsamic glaze] if you're feeling fancy. Serve it hot and just listen to how quiet everyone gets. That's the sound of a perfect meal!
Notes
- Note 1 (Grandma’s Secret): Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is the most important step for juicy grilled chicken. Don’t skip it!
- Note 2 (Extra Sauce): If you want extra sauce, set aside 1/4 cup of the marinade before you add the raw chicken. Simmer it in a small saucepan for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, then drizzle it over the finished chicken.
- No Grill? No Problem: You can bake this chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Add the cheese in the last 3 minutes of baking.
- Storage: Store leftover chicken (without toppings) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Add fresh avocado and tomato when you’re ready to serve for the best texture
