Easy Grilled Chicken and Avocado Salad (High-Protein & Paleo!)

This healthy grilled chicken and avocado salad is packed with protein and perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in 20 minutes with simple ingredients!

Easy Grilled Chicken and Avocado Salad

Looking for a healthy, satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? This grilled chicken and avocado salad is your answer! Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, it’s the perfect combination of nutritious and delicious.

What makes this salad so special? It’s naturally high-protein and completely paleo-friendly, making it ideal for anyone following a clean eating lifestyle. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep Sunday.

The smoky grilled chicken pairs beautifully with creamy avocado and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a zesty lime dressing that brings everything together. Trust me, this will become your new go-to healthy dinner!

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad:

• 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and romaine)
• 2 large ripe avocados, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Lime Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and place in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasonings evenly on both sides.
2. Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using an outdoor grill, make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
3. Grill the chicken: Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Cooking time may vary depending on thickness. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Make the Salad

4. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Prep the vegetables: While chicken is resting, wash and dry the mixed greens. Slice the avocados, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion, and dice the cucumber.
6. Slice the chicken: Cut the grilled chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
7. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber. Top with sliced grilled chicken and fresh cilantro.
8. Dress and serve: Drizzle the lime dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for best results.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Substitution Ideas:

• Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or salmon for variety
• Use baby spinach or kale instead of mixed greens
• Add bell peppers or corn for extra color and crunch
• Try fresh basil or mint instead of cilantro

Storage Tips:

• Store components separately for meal prep
• Dressed salad keeps for 1 day in the refrigerator
• Grilled chicken stays fresh for up to 3 days refrigerated

Pro Tips:

• Pound chicken to even thickness for uniform cooking
• Let chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy
• Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning
• Make extra dressing – it’s great on other salads too!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this grilled chicken and avocado salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prep all components separately and store in the fridge. Combine everything except the avocado up to 1 day ahead, then add fresh avocado and dressing just before serving.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Slice avocado just before serving, or toss cut avocado with a little lime juice to slow browning. The acid in the dressing also helps prevent oxidation.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Grilled shrimp, salmon, or even hard-boiled eggs work wonderfully. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes! This grilled chicken and avocado salad is naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it perfect for keto diets.

How long does grilled chicken last in the fridge?

Properly stored grilled chicken will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I use store-bought dressing instead?

While homemade is best, you can substitute with your favorite vinaigrette. Look for paleo-friendly options if following that diet.

What’s the best way to grill chicken for salads?

Cook over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let it rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

Can I make this without a grill?

Yes! Use a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or even bake the chicken at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.

Conclusion

This grilled chicken and avocado salad proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. With its perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, it’s a complete meal that will leave you satisfied and energized.

The combination of smoky grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and zesty lime dressing creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and filling. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick dinner solution, this salad delivers every time.

The best part? This recipe is completely customizable. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, switch up the protein, or experiment with different herbs and seasonings to make it your own.

Call to Action

Ready to make this delicious grilled chicken and avocado salad? Give it a try tonight and let me know how it turns out! Drop a comment below with your favorite add-ins or variations.

Don’t forget to snap a photo and share it on Instagram – tag me so I can see your beautiful creation! And if you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family. They’ll thank you for introducing them to their new favorite healthy dinner!

Looking for more healthy, protein-packed recipes? Browse my collection of paleo-friendly meals that are perfect for busy weeknights. Happy cooking!