Grilled Chicken & Avocado Salad Bowl: A Healthy, Flavorful, and Filling Meal
When it comes to quick, healthy meals that don’t compromise on taste, a grilled chicken and avocado salad bowl is a winning choice. This recipe brings together juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, fresh veggies, and a rich homemade avocado dressing for a dish that’s not just light and refreshing but also nutrient-dense and satisfying. Whether you’re eating clean, following a high-protein diet, or simply craving a wholesome lunch or dinner, this salad bowl delivers big flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 2 cups romaine or mixed leafy greens (spinach, arugula, or iceberg work too)
- ½ avocado, diced into small cubes
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- ½ cup grilled corn (adds a smoky, sweet flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
For the Creamy Avocado Dressing:
- ½ ripe avocado
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Grill it on a hot pan or outdoor grill until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly into strips.
2. Prep the Vegetables
- Wash and chop the greens into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the cucumber thinly, halve the cherry tomatoes, and dice the avocado.
- Grill the corn for a smoky flavor, then cut off the kernels.
3. Make the Avocado Dressing
- In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- If it feels too thick, add a splash of water or milk to loosen the texture.
4. Assemble the Salad Bowl
- Start with a base of leafy greens in a large bowl.
- Add the tomatoes, cucumber, corn, and avocado cubes.
- Top with the grilled chicken slices.
- Drizzle generously with the creamy avocado dressing.
- Sprinkle chili flakes or sesame seeds on top if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Add more protein: A boiled egg, roasted chickpeas, or grilled shrimp can make the bowl even heartier.
- Switch the grains: Add quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for a more filling meal.
- Try different flavors: Replace olive oil in the dressing with sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Make it spicy: Mix in hot sauce, sriracha, or smoked paprika for extra heat.
Health Benefits
- Grilled chicken: A lean protein source that keeps you full and helps build muscle.
- Avocado: Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Fresh veggies: Loaded with antioxidants, minerals, and hydration.
- Homemade dressing: Healthier than store-bought dressings, with no added sugars or preservatives.
Time Needed
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Why This Salad Bowl is Perfect
This isn’t just another salad. It’s a complete, balanced meal that combines the freshness of vegetables, the creaminess of avocado, and the savory flavor of grilled chicken. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal-prep for the week. It’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal for anyone looking for a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
- Can I meal-prep this salad?
- What can I use instead of avocado?
- Can I swap chicken for salmon or tuna?