Grilled Chicken Avocado Bowl

This vibrant grilled chicken and avocado bowl transforms everyday ingredients into a nutritious powerhouse meal that satisfies both hunger and health goals. The combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will keep you energized throughout your day.

I first created this bowl during a hot summer when I wanted something filling yet refreshing. Now it has become my go-to lunch option that I prep ahead for busy workdays, and my friends always request the recipe after trying it at my gatherings.

Ingredients

• Grilled chicken breast: Provides lean protein that keeps you satisfied longer while adding smoky flavor
• Romaine or mixed greens: Forms a nutritious base packed with vitamins and minerals
• Ripe avocado: Contributes creamy texture and heart-healthy fats that make the bowl truly satisfying
• Cherry tomatoes: Add juicy bursts of flavor and beautiful color contrast
• Cucumber: Delivers refreshing crunch and hydration
• Grilled corn: Brings sweet notes and additional texture to complete the bowl
• Olive oil: Contains monounsaturated fats that help absorb nutrients from the vegetables
• Sea salt: Enhances all flavors without overwhelming them
• Black pepper: Adds subtle heat that balances the coolness of the vegetables
• Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with aromatic flavor without the harshness of fresh garlic
• Chili flakes: Provide optional heat that can be adjusted to your preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chicken:

Season your chicken breast generously with sea salt, fresh ground black pepper, and garlic powder, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and add the chicken. Allow it to cook undisturbed for 5–6 minutes until beautiful grill marks form, then flip and cook for another 5–6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The key is not overcooking the chicken to ensure it stays juicy. Let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Create the creamy avocado dressing:

Combine half a ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, about 30–60 seconds. The dressing should have a pourable but thick consistency. If it seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning.

Assemble your bowl base:

Start with a generous bed of crisp romaine lettuce or mixed greens, about 2 cups per serving. Add your chopped cherry tomatoes, spreading them evenly around the bowl. Follow with sliced cucumber arranged in a pattern around the edge. Place your grilled corn kernels in a section of the bowl, creating a colorful arrangement. Finally, add the diced avocado pieces, being gentle to maintain their shape and creaminess.

Finish with protein and dressing:

Arrange your sliced grilled chicken on top of the vegetables, either in the center or across the entire bowl. Drizzle the avocado dressing generously over everything, starting with about 2 tablespoons and adding more to taste. If you enjoy some heat, sprinkle chili flakes across the top for a pleasant spicy contrast to the cool vegetables and creamy avocado.

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You Must Know

The avocado is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. Not only does it appear twice in both the bowl and dressing, but its creamy texture creates a richness that makes this healthy meal feel indulgent. I discovered this particular dressing combination during a California vacation where I was inspired by the abundance of fresh avocados, and it has remained my secret weapon for elevating simple salads ever since.

Meal Prep Magic

This bowl is perfect for meal prepping with a few strategic steps. Prepare all components separately and store them in individual containers. Keep the dressing in a sealed jar with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to prevent oxidation. Assemble fresh bowls each day by combining the pre-prepped ingredients. The chicken and grilled corn will stay fresh for 3–4 days in the refrigerator, while the chopped vegetables can be prepped 1–2 days ahead. For the avocado, either dice it fresh each day or sprinkle cut pieces with extra lemon juice to prevent browning.

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Customization Options

This versatile bowl welcomes many variations based on dietary needs or what you have available. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese, crispy tofu, or a scoop of quinoa. Pescatarians might enjoy substituting grilled shrimp or salmon for equally delicious results. The vegetables can be swapped seasonally—consider roasted sweet potatoes and kale in fall, or asparagus and radishes in spring. For those avoiding dairy, replace the Greek yogurt in the dressing with coconut yogurt or additional avocado for an equally creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bowl immediately after assembly for the perfect temperature contrast between the warm chicken and cool vegetables. For a more substantial meal, add a scoop of cooked quinoa, brown rice, or farro to the base. This bowl also pairs beautifully with a slice of toasted sourdough bread rubbed with garlic for scooping up extra dressing. For entertaining, consider setting up a build-your-own bowl bar with all ingredients separated, allowing guests to customize according to their preferences. This interactive serving style makes for a fun casual gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I grill chicken breast perfectly?

Season it well with salt, pepper, and spices before grilling. Cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

→ Can I make the avocado dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness.

→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the dressing?

You can use sour cream, plain yogurt, or even dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt.

→ Can I use other greens instead of romaine?

Absolutely! Mixed greens, spinach, or kale work well as substitutes for romaine lettuce in this bowl.

→ What other toppings can I add to this bowl?

Try adding shredded cheese, toasted nuts, beans, or quinoa for added texture and flavor.

→ Is this dish spicy?

It's mild by default, but you can add chili flakes to increase the spice level. Adjust to your taste preference!