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This vibrant and nutritious Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado & Lime Vinaigrette is the perfect blend of fresh, zesty, and savory flavors.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

1.For the Salad

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, romaine, spinach)
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
Optional: crumbled feta or goat cheese

2.For the Lime Vinaigrette:

3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.
Assemble the Salad: On a large serving plate or bowl, layer the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado slices.
Add Chicken: Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the lime vinaigrette over the top just before serving. Toss lightly if desired. Garnish with optional cheese if using.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 420
Protein: 35g
Total Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 420mg
Total Carbohydrates: 14g
Dietary Fiber: 6g
Sugars: 5g
Vitamin A: 35% DV
Vitamin C: 40% DV
Calcium: 8% DV
Iron: 15% DV

Nutritional Benefits of Grilled Chicken Salad

Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado & Lime Vinaigrette is a powerhouse of nutrition. It provides a lean source of protein through the chicken, which supports muscle maintenance and satiety. The inclusion of avocado adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the mixed greens and vegetables contribute vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This meal promotes balanced eating, giving you essential nutrients without excessive calories, refined carbs, or unhealthy fats.

Perfect Balance of Macros

This salad offers a well-balanced macronutrient profile, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary goals. It contains high protein content to aid in muscle repair and energy, moderate fats mainly from healthy sources like olive oil and avocado, and low carbohydrate content mostly derived from fiber-rich vegetables. This macro distribution supports blood sugar stability and prolonged satiety, ideal for those on low-carb or high-protein diets.

Heart-Healthy Ingredients

The ingredients in this salad are particularly beneficial for heart health. Avocados are rich in potassium and good fats that help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Olive oil, especially when used in the vinaigrette, is high in oleic acid, which supports cardiovascular function. Paired with leafy greens known for their nitrate content and tomatoes rich in lycopene, the recipe promotes vascular health naturally.

Weight Management Friendly

Because this salad is low in calories and high in fiber and protein, it is an excellent choice for anyone looking to manage or lose weight. Protein helps reduce hunger and cravings, while fiber adds volume and slows digestion, making you feel full longer. Additionally, the fresh vegetables and lean grilled chicken provide bulk without calorie overload, making it ideal for meal prep or a light dinner.

Supports Healthy Skin and Hair

The combination of vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats in this recipe plays a role in enhancing skin and hair health. Avocados are high in vitamin E and biotin, while tomatoes and greens contain vitamin C, essential for collagen production. The good fats from both avocado and olive oil help maintain moisture in the skin and support cellular regeneration, contributing to a natural glow and improved hair texture.

Ideal for Diabetic-Friendly Diets

This salad is naturally low in refined sugars and carbohydrates, making it a smart meal choice for people with diabetes or those managing blood sugar levels. The high fiber content from vegetables and avocado helps slow glucose absorption, while the protein from chicken aids in maintaining energy levels without spiking insulin. The vinaigrette is sweetened minimally, if at all, making it even more suitable for diabetic-friendly eating plans.

Customizable for Different Diets

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. It can be easily adjusted for paleo, keto, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets. Simply omit cheese for a dairy-free version, or skip honey in the vinaigrette for a lower-carb or ketogenic adaptation. You can also add or substitute different vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or shredded carrots for variety without straying from your dietary restrictions.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

This salad is ideal for busy individuals who still want to eat healthy. Grilling chicken and assembling a salad can be done in under 30 minutes, making it suitable for lunch breaks or a fast weeknight dinner. It requires minimal equipment and kitchen skills, so anyone from beginner cooks to experienced meal preppers can prepare it efficiently. The vinaigrette can also be made in batches and stored for several days to save even more time.

Promotes Digestive Health

The fiber-rich content of the greens, cucumber, and avocado contributes significantly to digestive health. Fiber aids in bowel regularity, helps cleanse the digestive tract, and feeds beneficial gut bacteria. The lime vinaigrette provides a touch of acidity that may stimulate digestion and improve nutrient absorption. This salad not only nourishes but also helps maintain a balanced gut environment.

Great for Meal Prepping

Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado & Lime Vinaigrette is an excellent option for meal prepping. The grilled chicken can be cooked in bulk and stored for up to four days in the refrigerator, and the vinaigrette can last just as long. You can assemble salad bases in containers and add the avocado and dressing just before eating. This makes it easy to enjoy a fresh, wholesome meal throughout the week without added stress or last-minute cooking.

Seasonal and Sustainable Eating

This recipe encourages the use of seasonal and local ingredients, which not only enhances flavor and nutritional value but also supports sustainability. During the summer months, avocados, tomatoes, and greens are at their peak, making them both affordable and eco-friendly. Choosing locally sourced chicken and produce reduces the carbon footprint and supports local farmers, aligning your meal choices with environmentally responsible eating habits.

Ideal for Outdoor Grilling and Gatherings

Because the chicken is grilled, this recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, barbecues, or picnic settings. It’s easy to prepare on an outdoor grill and offers a fresh, vibrant alternative to heavier, carb-laden dishes typically found at gatherings. Served chilled or at room temperature, it can be made ahead and transported easily, making it a popular, health-conscious crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado & Lime Vinaigrette is more than just a tasty meal—it’s a nutrient-dense, versatile, and convenient option that fits into nearly any healthy eating plan. It supports heart and gut health, is friendly to weight and blood sugar control, and adapts well to a variety of dietary preferences. With its quick preparation time and high customization potential, it’s an ideal recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, health-forward meal any day of the week.