Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado and Guacamole

Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado and Guacamole

**Ingredients:**

*For the Chicken:*
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Juice of 1 lime

*For the Salad:*
– 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup canned corn, drained
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves
– 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
– 1 cucumber, sliced

*For the Guacamole:*
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 small tomato, diced
– 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

**Instructions:**

1. **Marinate and Grill the Chicken:**
– In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Mix well.
– Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
– Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
– Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

2. **Prepare the Guacamole:**
– In a medium bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until smooth but slightly chunky.
– Stir in the diced tomato, chopped red onion, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
– Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. **Assemble the Salad:**
– On a large platter or individual plates, arrange the mixed salad greens.
– Top with sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, corn, red onion, cucumber, and cilantro leaves.
– Add a generous scoop of guacamole in the center.
– Arrange the grilled chicken slices on top of the salad.

4. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Garnish with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick, if desired.
– Serve immediately, either as is or with your favorite dressing on the side (a simple lime vinaigrette would pair nicely).

This Grilled Chicken Salad is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, full of fresh and bold flavors. Enjoy!