A refreshing and nutritious meal, the Grilled Chicken & Avocado Salad Bowl combines juicy grilled chicken with creamy avocado, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing. It’s a perfect go-to for lunch or a light dinner, offering a satisfying blend of protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad bowl is not only incredibly flavorful but also packed with nutrients. The grilled chicken provides lean protein, while avocado offers heart-healthy fats. It’s quick to prepare, customizable with your favorite toppings, and great for meal prep. Plus, it’s gluten-free and can be made low-carb or dairy-free depending on your preferences.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find 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
Romaine lettuce or mixed greens
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber
Red onion
Ripe avocado
Lemon or lime juice
Optional: crumbled feta cheese, corn, black beans
Dressing: balsamic vinaigrette, ranch, or your favorite

directions

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Grill chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.
Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and red onion.
Add sliced grilled chicken and diced avocado on top.
Drizzle with lemon or lime juice and your preferred dressing.
Toss gently and top with optional ingredients like feta, corn, or black beans if using.
Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–4 people.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian version
Use kale or spinach instead of romaine for a different green base
Add cooked quinoa or brown rice for more fiber and bulk
Try a spicy chipotle dressing for a kick
Include fruit like mango or strawberries for a sweet twist

storage/reheating

Store leftover ingredients separately to prevent sogginess. Keep in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat grilled chicken separately in a microwave or skillet until warm. Assemble fresh when ready to eat.

FAQs

How do I know when the grilled chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I make this salad bowl ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the ingredients in advance and store separately. Assemble right before serving for best texture.

What dressing goes best with this salad?

Balsamic vinaigrette, ranch, or a lemony olive oil dressing pair well.

Is this salad bowl low-carb?

Yes, as long as you skip high-carb add-ins like corn or beans.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely. It’s a great time-saver.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss avocado pieces in lemon or lime juice to slow oxidation.

Can I grill the chicken ahead of time?

Yes. Store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What can I use instead of lettuce?

Spinach, kale, or arugula are all great alternatives.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What other toppings can I add?

Try olives, roasted chickpeas, shredded carrots, or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and flavor.

Conclusion

The Grilled Chicken & Avocado Salad Bowl is a versatile and wholesome dish that’s easy to love. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout meal or a clean-eating lunch, this salad is sure to satisfy without weighing you down. Give it a try and customize it to your taste!

Grilled Chicken & Avocado Salad Bowl