Looking for a meal that’s hearty yet healthy, fresh yet filling? This Grilled Chicken & Avocado Salad Bowl hits all the right notes. It’s packed with lean protein, heart-healthy fats, fiber, and bold flavors. Think grilled, juicy chicken breast served over crisp greens, creamy avocado, fresh veggies, and your favorite dressing — all coming together in one nutrient-rich bowl.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, trying to eat clean, or just want a refreshing and satisfying lunch or dinner, this chicken and avocado salad bowl is a perfect choice.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ High-protein and low-carb
- ✅ Packed with nutrients and healthy fats
- ✅ Quick and easy to prepare
- ✅ Great for meal prep or clean eating
- ✅ Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or dressing
🧂 Ingredients
For the Salad Bowl:
- 2 grilled chicken breasts (sliced)
- 1 ripe avocado (sliced or cubed)
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine, etc.)
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cucumber (sliced)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or shredded cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin or sunflower seeds (optional for crunch)
For the Marinade (for Chicken):
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Dressing Ideas:
- Balsamic vinaigrette
- Lemon tahini dressing
- Creamy Greek yogurt ranch
- Cilantro lime dressing
🔥 How to Grill the Chicken
- Marinate: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for 15–30 minutes.
- Grill: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
- Rest & Slice: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
🥗 Assembling the Salad Bowl
- Divide the mixed greens between 2 bowls.
- Top each bowl with sliced grilled chicken, avocado, tomatoes, red onions, cucumber, and any extras like cheese or seeds.
- Drizzle with your preferred dressing just before serving.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for freshness and an extra sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Tips for the Best Salad Bowl
- Use ripe avocados: For the perfect creamy texture.
- Don’t skip the rest time: Resting the chicken locks in the juices.
- Add grains: For a more filling bowl, add quinoa, brown rice, or farro.
- Go seasonal: Add seasonal veggies like corn, roasted sweet potato, or pomegranate seeds.
🔁 Customization Ideas
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha or chipotle dressing.
- Switch the protein: Use grilled shrimp, tofu, or steak instead of chicken.
- Go dairy-free: Skip cheese or use a vegan alternative.
- Meal prep: Keep dressing and avocado separate until serving for freshest results.
📦 Storage
- Store salad ingredients (without dressing) in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Keep grilled chicken refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Slice avocado fresh each time for best quality.
📝 Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken & Avocado Salad Bowl is a go-to recipe for anyone wanting a healthy yet hearty meal that delivers on flavor, freshness, and nutrition. It’s easy to throw together, infinitely customizable, and perfect for everything from busy weeknight dinners to clean eating lunches.
