Grilled Mango-Avocado Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Mango-Avocado Chicken Salad is a tropical, light, and nutritious option that’s packed with flavor and texture. The grilled chicken adds a satisfying protein boost, while the mango brings a refreshing sweetness and the avocado provides a creamy, rich element. The homemade citrus dressing ties it all together with a tangy punch. It’s perfect for warm weather meals, and it’s an excellent choice if you want a healthy dish that still feels indulgent.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and sliced
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

For the dressing:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked.
3. While the chicken is grilling, prepare the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
4. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
5. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, mango slices, avocado, red onion, and cilantro (if using).
6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
7. Top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add nuts or seeds: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some toasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds over the salad.
• Make it spicy: Add a sliced jalapeño or drizzle some hot sauce over the top for an extra kick.
• Swap proteins: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can replace it with grilled shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Add cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese would complement the sweetness of the mango and the richness of the avocado.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. If you’re meal prepping, store the dressing separately and only toss it with the salad right before serving to avoid wilting the greens.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before grilling. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.

Can I use a store-bought dressing for this salad?

Sure! If you prefer convenience, you can use a store-bought citrus or honey mustard dressing, though the homemade version adds a nice touch and is super easy to make.

How can I make this salad more filling?

To make the salad more filling, add some quinoa, couscous, or brown rice. You can also add hard-boiled eggs or roasted chickpeas for extra protein.

Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this Grilled Mango-Avocado Chicken Salad is low in carbs, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Can I use a different fruit instead of mango?

Yes! You can substitute the mango with pineapple, peaches, or even strawberries for a different fruity twist.

How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and spices for 30 minutes before grilling.

Can I make this salad without avocado?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of avocado or have an allergy, you can leave it out or substitute it with a handful of roasted sweet potatoes for creaminess.

What other greens can I use in the salad?

You can use a variety of greens like kale, butter lettuce, or mixed spring greens. Choose what you like best!

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat for a similar result.

Conclusion

This Grilled Mango-Avocado Chicken Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for warm days or whenever you’re craving something light yet satisfying. The combination of grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and sweet mango creates an irresistible balance of flavors, while the citrus dressing adds a refreshing zing. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with healthy ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a quick and delicious meal.

Grilled Mango-Avocado Chicken Salad

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A fresh and vibrant Grilled Mango-Avocado Chicken Salad combining juicy grilled chicken, sweet mango, creamy avocado, and a tangy citrus dressing, perfect for a light, healthy meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

1. 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
   
   1 tablespoon olive oil
   
   Salt and pepper, to taste
   
   1 teaspoon garlic powder
   
   1 teaspoon paprika
   
   1 ripe mango, peeled and sliced
   
   1 ripe avocado, diced
   
   4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
   
   1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
   
   1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
   
   For the dressing:
   2 tablespoons olive oil
   
   1 tablespoon lime juice
   
   1 tablespoon honey
   
   1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
   
   Salt and pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

1. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked.
2. While the chicken is grilling, prepare the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, mango slices, avocado, red onion, and cilantro (if using).
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken and serve immediately.

Notes

• For extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds over the salad.
• For a spicier version, add a sliced jalapeño or drizzle some hot sauce over the top.
• Consider swapping chicken for grilled shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a different protein.
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese would complement the sweetness of the mango and the richness of the avocado.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 70mg