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grilled chicken topped with avocado slices and melted cheese
Isaac blogger

Grilled California Avocado Chicken

Juicy grilled chicken topped with creamy avocado, fresh tomatoes, and melted cheese for a bright, balanced meal that’s simple yet flavorful.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories:
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 ripe but firm avocados, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

Method
 

  1. Before You Begin
  2. Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.
  3. In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until combined.
  4. Add chicken and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F / 190–200°C) and lightly oil the surface.
  6. Grill chicken 6–7 minutes per side until lightly charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
  7. Remove from heat and immediately top with avocado slices, tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
  8. Close grill lid or tent loosely with foil 1–2 minutes until cheese melts.
  9. Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Cook chicken to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a food thermometer.
  • Avoid over-marinating in citrus (limit to about 4 hours) to maintain proper texture.
  • Let chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
  • Add avocado and fresh toppings only after cooking to maintain quality and food safety.
  • Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and store airtight up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently until heated through before serving; add fresh toppings after reheating.