Grilled California avocado chicken is a fast, flavorful dish that feels like summer on a plate. The chicken is tender and juicy, marinated in a sweet balsamic blend. Then it’s topped with melted mozzarella, creamy avocado, and garden-fresh tomato and basil.
It’s quick to make, full of bright flavor, and perfect for warm nights outside.
You can toss it on the grill after work, or make it for guests without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s loaded with wholesome ingredients that leave you satisfied without feeling heavy.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 2 avocados, diced
- 3 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: extra balsamic for drizzling
Ingredient Tips:
- Use ripe but firm avocados so they hold shape.
- Choose fresh basil for the most fragrant finish.
- Roma tomatoes work well since they aren’t too watery.
How to Make Grilled California Avocado Chicken
Step 1 – Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken and coat it well. Let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes while you prep the topping.
Step 2 – Prepare the Avocado-Tomato Topping
Dice your avocados and Roma tomatoes. Add chopped basil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Stir gently and set aside. This mixture should be made fresh so the avocado doesn’t brown.
Step 3 – Grill the Chicken to Juicy Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium-high.
Place the marinated chicken on clean, oiled grates. Grill each side for about 6 minutes or until the internal temp hits 165°F.
If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them slightly for even cooking.
Step 4 – Assemble and Serve
Once cooked, top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella. Let it melt slightly from the heat.
Then spoon the avocado-tomato topping right over the cheese.
Drizzle with extra balsamic if you’d like a tangy punch at the end.
Grilling Tips for Best Results
- Always clean and oil the grates before cooking.
- Use indirect heat to prevent burnt outsides and raw centers.
- A meat thermometer keeps things foolproof—165°F is your magic number.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes before topping for better texture.
Variations and Serving Ideas
Flavor Variations
- Citrus twist: Marinate with lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cilantro instead.
- Cheese swap: Pepper jack or provolone add a new spin.
- Toppings: Bacon bits or sliced black olives bring a salty crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with rice, herby potatoes, or a green salad.
- For rainy days, bake it in the oven: 350°F for 45 minutes, then finish with cheese and toppings uncovered for 5 more.
For more summer-friendly ideas, try my Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn for a Fresh Summer Meal.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
- Cool leftovers, then store in an airtight container within 2 hours.
- Fridge: Keeps well for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or freezer bags for up to 4 months.
To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Want to plan ahead? Prep the topping and marinade separately and assemble fresh the day of.
Grilled California Avocado Chicken Recipe Card
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Grilled California Avocado Chicken | Easy & Juicy Dinner
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Juicy grilled chicken topped with creamy avocado, mozzarella, fresh basil, and sweet tomato. A fast and flavorful dinner for summer nights.
Ingredients
3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 slices mozzarella cheese
2 avocados, diced
3 Roma tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup fresh chopped basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: balsamic vinegar for drizzling
Instructions
1. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts and coat fully; marinate for 30 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix avocado, tomato, basil, salt, and pepper; set aside.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Grill chicken ~6 minutes per side or until internal temp reaches 165°F.
6. Top grilled chicken with mozzarella cheese, then spoon avocado-tomato mixture on top.
7. Drizzle with extra balsamic vinegar before serving.
Notes
• Use ripe but firm avocados to prevent mushy texture.
• Pound thicker chicken breasts for even grilling.
• Let the chicken rest before topping to keep juices in.
• Optional: bake at 350°F for 45 minutes if not grilling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with topping
- Calories: 558
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 621mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
More Such Recipes
- Try Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Meal for Easy Weeknight Dinners
- Or Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken for a Low-Carb Twist
- Or fire up the grill for Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers for Grilling Season
FAQs About Grilled Avocado Chicken
What is California Grilled Chicken?
It’s usually grilled chicken topped with California-style ingredients like avocado, tomato, and cheese—fresh, light, and packed with flavor.
Is Grilled Chicken and avocado good for you?
Yes! It’s a balanced combo of protein and healthy fats. It keeps you full and satisfied without feeling heavy.
What is a California chicken?
California chicken often refers to grilled or roasted chicken paired with avocado, cheese, and fresh herbs. It reflects the West Coast’s fresh, simple cooking style.
What flavor is California chicken?
It’s savory, a little tangy from balsamic, and creamy from the avocado and cheese. The basil and tomato add a garden-fresh bite.
Final Thoughts
Grilled California avocado chicken is one of those recipes that hits every note juicy, fresh, creamy, and quick. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but good enough for guests too.
Give it a try and let me know what you think. And if you’re loving these kinds of meals, come find more over on Pinterest or follow along on Facebook.