Description
A vibrant, protein-rich dish blending tender marinated chicken with buttery avocados and melted Monterey Jack cheese. This summer-ready recipe offers a balanced profile of healthy fats, lean protein, and zesty citrus notes for a weeknight or cookout favorite.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (halal-certified)
1 pint vine-ripened cherry tomatoes, halved
2 large California avocados, sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tbsp cilantro oil (optional)
*Alternatives: Substitute chicken thighs, use nutritional yeast for a cheese-free option
Instructions
Prepare the marinade by combining olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl
Marinate chicken for 30 minutes on the counter or up to 4 hours in the fridge
Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to high heat
Sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and juices run clear
Top each chicken breast with 2-3 tbsp shredded cheese and let melt slightly while grilling
Assemble the avocado-avocado relish: gently toss avocados, cherry tomatoes, and fresh cilantro in a bowl
Drizzle cilantro oil over the chicken after grilling
Serve chicken immediately with the avocado relish and lime wedges
Notes
For best results, do not over-marinate beyond 4 hours to prevent texture breakdown
Montery Jack cheese can be substituted with mozzarella, Havarti, or a melty vegan alternative
Prepare cherry tomatoes at least 10 minutes in advance to allow juice to concentrate
Sliced avocados turn brown quickly—toss with a splash of lime juice before serving
- Prep Time: 40
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Easy Chicken Dinner Recipes for Busy Nights
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with 1/2 avocado and 1/4 cup relish
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 46g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
