Summer Grilled Chicken with Avocado and Balsamic Glaze

If you love fresh, vibrant dinners packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes, this Grilled California Avocado Chicken recipe is for you! Juicy marinated chicken, creamy avocado, sweet tomatoes, fresh basil, and melty mozzarella come together in one irresistible, healthy meal. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, cozy weeknight dinners, or even weekend meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal prep and simple ingredients.
• Healthy and Satisfying: High-protein, low-carb, and packed with healthy fats from avocado.
• Bright, Fresh Flavors: The combination of garlic, honey, balsamic, and fresh produce creates a perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory.
• Versatile: You can grill it outdoors or cook it indoors, and switch up toppings to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This is a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken and Marinade:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar – adds a rich tanginess and helps tenderize the chicken.
• 1/4 cup honey – brings a subtle sweetness that balances the balsamic.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – infuses delicious aromatic flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – helps lock in moisture and prevents sticking.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – a balanced herb blend for savory depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Fresh Toppings:

• 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese – creamy and melts beautifully over the chicken.
• 2 ripe avocados, diced – provides healthy fats and creaminess.
• 3 Roma tomatoes, diced – sweet and juicy, adds freshness.
• 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil – adds an aromatic, peppery brightness.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra balsamic vinegar for drizzling (optional)

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For maximum flavor, marinate for up to 24 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Topping

While the chicken marinates, mix the diced avocado, tomatoes, chopped basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. For an extra zesty touch, you can also add a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). The balsamic-honey marinade will create a delicious caramelized crust.

Step 4: Add the Mozzarella Cheese

During the last minute of grilling, place a slice of mozzarella on each chicken breast and cover the grill. Let the cheese melt until gooey and soft.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Plate the chicken, top each piece with a generous portion of the avocado-tomato-basil mixture, and drizzle lightly with extra balsamic vinegar if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Use Evenly Sized Chicken Breasts: Pound them to uniform thickness for faster and more even grilling.
• Keep an Eye on the Grill: Honey can cause the marinade to caramelize quickly—watch to prevent burning.
• Let Chicken Rest: Always rest the chicken for 5 minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.
• Fresh Mozzarella Works Best: It melts perfectly, but you can also use shredded mozzarella in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile enough to be served in multiple ways:

• With Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or nutty quinoa.
• With Grilled Vegetables: Pair with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a low-carb dinner.
• With Fresh Greens: Slice the chicken and serve it on top of a mixed greens salad.
• As a Sandwich or Wrap: Slice the chicken and stuff it into warm pita or wraps with extra veggies.
• With Roasted Potatoes: For a comforting, heartier meal, pair it with crispy roasted potatoes.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store cooked chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers for 3-4 days.
• Freeze the Chicken: Chicken freezes well without toppings. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Avocado Tip: For meal prep, prepare the avocado topping fresh to avoid browning.
• Reheat Properly: Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave. Add fresh toppings after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling?

Yes! Bake in a 400°F oven for 20-25 minutes, then top with cheese for the final 5 minutes.

Is it suitable for keto or low-carb diets?

Absolutely! This chicken dish is naturally low-carb and high in protein and healthy fats.

Can I swap the cheese?

Of course! Feel free to use provolone, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor twist.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Why This Recipe Works

This Grilled California Avocado Chicken combines the smoky flavor of grilled meat with the freshness of summer produce. The marinade keeps the chicken tender, the mozzarella adds indulgence, and the avocado-tomato topping brightens every bite. It’s colorful, nourishing, and comes together effortlessly—perfect for any occasion from weeknight dinners to summer BBQ parties.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fresh, delicious, and easy dinner idea, Grilled California Avocado Chicken checks all the boxes. It’s healthy, full of flavor, and loved by both kids and adults. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking inside, this meal always delivers big on taste. Try it for your next dinner and you’ll see why it’s a favorite!

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