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Grilled California Avocado Chicken Recipe


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4.2 from 1 review

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Grilled California Avocado Chicken recipe features tender, marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection and topped with fresh mozzarella, creamy avocado slices, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this vibrant dish combines fresh flavors and satisfying textures for a delightful meal perfect for summer gatherings or a wholesome weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup balsamic vinaigrette or marinade

Toppings

  • 1 package (8 oz) sliced fresh mozzarella cheese
  • 2 large avocados (cored and sliced)
  • 2 large slicing tomatoes (sliced)
  • Chopped fresh basil, to taste
  • Balsamic glaze, for drizzling


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover them with plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat tenderizer or meat pounder to gently pound each breast to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This ensures even cooking and quicker grilling time.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Transfer the pounded chicken breasts into a gallon-size Ziploc bag. Pour in 1 cup of balsamic vinaigrette or marinade, seal the bag carefully, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, to infuse the chicken with flavor and tenderize the meat.
  3. Bring to Room Temperature: When ready to grill, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This helps the chicken cook more evenly.
  4. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly grease the grates or pan with your favorite cooking oil or spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the Chicken: Drain and discard the marinade from the bag. Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill and cook for 8 to 10 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through with nice grill marks.
  6. Melt the Cheese: Remove the grilled chicken from the heat and immediately top each breast with 2 to 3 slices of fresh mozzarella. Cover with a piece of foil and let it rest for a few minutes so the cheese melts gently over the chicken.
  7. Add Fresh Toppings: Top each chicken breast with slices of creamy avocado and fresh tomato. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and finish with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy contrast that elevates the dish.

Notes

  • For best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for the full hour if possible.
  • Balsamic glaze can be purchased pre-made or easily made by reducing balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey until syrupy.
  • Use fresh mozzarella for the best melt and texture; buffalo mozzarella is a great option for extra creaminess.
  • If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan on the stove works perfectly to achieve grill marks and smoky flavor.
  • Serve this dish alongside a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American