Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this salad bowl strikes the perfect balance between protein, healthy fats, and fiber. It’s customizable, quick to prep, and perfect for meal prep or a simple lunch or dinner. The grilled chicken adds smoky flavor, while the avocado gives it that creamy richness I always crave. It’s clean eating made easy—and it never feels like a compromise.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Olive oil
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Garlic (minced)
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Lemon juice or lime juice
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Salt and pepper
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Mixed greens or romaine lettuce
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Avocado (sliced)
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Cherry tomatoes (halved)
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Cucumber (sliced)
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Red onion (thinly sliced)
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Crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
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Optional toppings: sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, boiled egg, corn
For the dressing (optional homemade):
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Olive oil
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Lemon or lime juice
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Dijon mustard
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Honey or maple syrup
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Salt and pepper
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Garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
directions
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I start by marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper for at least 20 minutes (or overnight in the fridge).
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I grill the chicken over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred. I let it rest before slicing.
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I assemble the salad by layering the greens in a large bowl or plate.
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I top with sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and any other toppings I like.
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I add the sliced grilled chicken on top.
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I whisk together the dressing ingredients and drizzle over the salad just before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 large bowls or 4 smaller servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Variations
Sometimes I add quinoa or brown rice to the bowl to make it more filling. I’ve also swapped the grilled chicken for grilled shrimp or salmon, or used chickpeas for a vegetarian version. For extra crunch, I throw in roasted chickpeas or crushed tortilla chips. If I want it spicy, I sprinkle on chili flakes or drizzle with a spicy vinaigrette.
storage/reheating
I store any leftover grilled chicken and chopped veggies separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. I assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh. The dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. I don’t recommend storing the avocado long—it’s best sliced fresh.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes, I can! It’s a great shortcut when I don’t have time to grill. I just slice or shred and toss it in.
What greens work best for this salad?
I usually use a mix of spring greens, spinach, or romaine. Anything fresh and crisp works well.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Absolutely. I prep all the components ahead of time and store them separately, then assemble when I’m ready to eat.
Can I grill the chicken indoors?
Yes, I use a grill pan or even a skillet if I’m cooking inside. It still gets that delicious sear and flavor.
What dressing goes best?
I like a simple lemon vinaigrette, but ranch, balsamic, or avocado cilantro dressing also work great with these flavors.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken & Avocado Salad Bowl is one of those meals that keeps me coming back again and again. It’s fresh, customizable, and full of nourishing ingredients that leave me feeling good. Whether I’m prepping ahead for the week or throwing together a quick dinner, this bowl never disappoints.
PrintGrilled Chicken & Avocado Salad Bowl
Fresh, filling, and full of flavor, this grilled chicken & avocado salad bowl is a wholesome meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course, Salad
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American, Healthy
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 large avocado, diced
4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or romaine)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
1/4 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice (or lime juice)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the salad ingredients. Slice the avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion and cucumber, and shred the carrots.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Salad Bowls:
Divide the mixed greens between two salad bowls. Top with the sliced grilled chicken, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and shredded carrots. Sprinkle with crumbled feta or goat cheese if desired.
Drizzle the Dressing:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve:
Serve immediately, or refrigerate the dressing separately if preparing in advance to keep the salad fresh.
Notes
For added crunch, you can top the salad with roasted nuts, seeds, or tortilla strips.
You can use any other grilled protein like shrimp or tofu for a variation.
To make the salad even more filling, add quinoa or brown rice on the side or mixed in.