Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe Ruby Tomato And Avocado Ribbon

I often find myself looking for meals that are both exciting and simple to pull together after a long day. This grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon delivers with its vibrant colors, tender chicken, and creamy avocado ribbons, making it truly special. It’s a fantastic solution for busy families and health-minded cooks looking for a quick, flavorful meal that feels special. This vibrant grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon transforms simple ingredients into a visually stunning and delicious meal. Truly a go-to family favorite, this recipe is beloved in my kitchen for its freshness and ease.

What You’ll Need for Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon Grilled Chicken Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating a truly spectacular grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 large / approx. 400g): The lean protein star of our salad, perfect for healthy recipes for dinner.
• Romaine lettuce (1 head): Provides a crisp, refreshing base. Choose firm, unblemished heads.
• Ruby tomatoes (2-3, like Roma or heirloom): For sweet, juicy bursts of color. Select deep red, firm tomatoes for best flavor (or use any ripe, firm tomato variety if ruby tomatoes aren’t available).
• Ripe avocados (2): Essential for creamy, nutrient-rich “ribbons.” Avocados should yield slightly to gentle pressure.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp / 30ml): Used for grilling and the simple dressing (I often use extra virgin for flavor).
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp / 15ml): Brightens all the flavors in the salad.
• Balsamic vinegar (1 tbsp / 15ml): Adds tangy depth to the dressing (apple cider vinegar also works in a pinch).
• Dijon mustard (1 tsp / 5ml): Helps emulsify the dressing and adds a subtle zing.
• Garlic powder (1/2 tsp / 2.5ml): A savory kick for the chicken.
• Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning for both chicken and dressing.

For an elevated experience, consider organic, free-range chicken and locally sourced, in-season ruby tomatoes and crisp lettuce. For a super-fast meal, store-bought grilled chicken strips or rotisserie chicken are excellent budget-friendly swaps. Remember, freshly grilled chicken truly makes all the difference in this delicious, family-friendly grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon.

Step-by-Step Method Made Simple

Creating this delicious grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon is straightforward. Follow these steps for a vibrant, high-protein meal:

1. Prep the Chicken (5 minutes prep, 15-30 minutes marinade): Pat two large chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, lightly coat them with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the fridge for deeper flavor. When my weeknights are truly packed, I sometimes use a pre-seasoned chicken breast from my local butcher to save even more time. The chicken should look evenly seasoned.
2. Grill the Chicken (10-14 minutes cook time): Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Place the seasoned chicken on the hot grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until you see nice grill marks and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. If it looks dry, remove it from the heat promptly; overcooked chicken can get tough. Let the chicken rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain to keep it tender and juicy.
3. Prepare the Veggies (10 minutes): While the chicken rests, wash and chop one head of romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Slice 2-3 ruby tomatoes into attractive wedges. For the avocado “ribbons,” halve two ripe avocados, remove the pit, scoop out the flesh with a spoon, and slice thinly lengthwise. The ribbons should hold their shape, not be mushy.
4. Whisk the Dressing (2 minutes): In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is emulsified and looks slightly creamy.
5. Assemble Your Salad (3 minutes): In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, sliced grilled chicken, ruby tomatoes, and delicate avocado ribbons. Drizzle with the freshly whisked dressing to complete your grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly without bruising the lettuce. This quick meal is now ready to enjoy.

Quick Inline Suggestions for Your Grilled Chicken Salad

• Faster Method: For a truly speedy dinner, skip the grilling and use pre-cooked grilled chicken strips or shred a rotisserie chicken instead.
• Healthier Twist: Enhance the nutritional value by adding extra greens like baby spinach or kale, or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch and extra protein. This makes for even more wholesome easy dinner ideas.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon is perfect:

• Overcooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer for 165°F (74°C) internal temp; resting after grilling ensures juiciness.
• Mushy Avocado: Use ripe but firm avocados and add them right before serving to maintain texture and prevent browning.
• Soggy Salad: Always dress the salad immediately before serving; early dressing makes lettuce limp.

Perfect Occasions and Serving Inspiration

When to serve:

• Quick weeknight dinner for busy families.
• Refreshing lunchbox idea for school or work.
• Light and satisfying option for summer picnics or barbecues.
• Easy dish to bring to a casual gathering or potluck.

Serving pairings: sides, toppings, sauces, beverages:

• Serve with crusty whole-grain bread or a warm tortilla for a heartier meal.
• Top with crumbled feta cheese, toasted nuts, or homemade croutons for extra texture.
• A light lemon-herb vinaigrette or a creamy Greek yogurt dressing can complement the flavors beautifully.
• Pair with sparkling water with lemon or a crisp, refreshing beverage.

Storage and reheating: fridge vs. freezer, containers, meal-prep tips:

Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Dress just before serving to prevent soggy greens. Not freezer-friendly due to fresh produce. For meal prep, I often grill a larger batch of chicken at the start of the week.

Nutrition & Everyday Wellness Benefits

Link grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon to wellness angles:

This vibrant grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon offers lean protein for sustained energy, healthy fats for satiety, and a rainbow of vitamins from fresh produce.

3-5 concise bullets:

• Weight-friendly: High in protein and fiber, it keeps you full and satisfied without excess calories, supporting healthy eating goals.
• High-protein: An excellent source of lean protein from grilled chicken, perfect for muscle repair and growth.
• Heart-healthy: Avocados provide beneficial monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular wellness.
• Rich in antioxidants: Ruby tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant supporting overall health.

Naturally include phrases like healthy recipes for dinner, quick protein snacks, easy meal prep for busy families:

This offers healthy recipes for dinner without compromising flavor, and it’s great for quick protein snacks or easy meal prep for busy families.

Why This Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe Works for You

Tie grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon to lifestyle goals:

This grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon helps you save time and enjoy delicious, healthy family meals effortlessly.

2-4 short points showing practical benefits:

• Budget-friendly: Uses common, accessible ingredients and is easily adaptable to what’s on sale at your local market.
• Speed & convenience: Most steps are quick; grilling chicken is an efficient cooking method for a busy weeknight.
• Diet fit: Naturally gluten-free, this recipe is easily adaptable for low-carb or dairy-free needs with simple swaps.
• Versatile: Great as a satisfying main dish or a hearty side salad, fitting various meal plans.

Smart Upgrades and Adjustments

Technique tips for a more polished finish:

• Slice chicken against the grain for maximum tenderness and a pleasant chew.
• Use a sharp knife for clean avocado ‘ribbons’ and uniform tomato wedges.
• Toast any nuts or seeds you add for enhanced flavor and crunch in every bite.

Flavor variations: spice blends, herbs, marinades:

• Spice it up with a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika added to the chicken rub before grilling.
• Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley add a vibrant finish and aroma.
• Try different marinades: a lemon-herb, honey-mustard, or Italian dressing marinade for the chicken adds variety.

Diet adaptations: (low-carb, vegan, diabetic-friendly, kid-friendly):

• Low-carb: Simply omit any croutons or whole-grain bread sides.
• Vegan: Replace chicken with grilled tofu, seasoned chickpeas, or plant-based protein strips.
• Diabetic-friendly: Focus on lean protein and fresh, non-starchy vegetables; ensure your dressing has no added sugar.
• Kid-friendly: My children often prefer their chicken and veggies served separately, allowing them to assemble their own mini-salads. Sometimes I cut the chicken into fun shapes!

Reader Q&A

“Can I prepare grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon ahead of time?”

Yes, grill chicken and chop veggies 1-2 days ahead. Store components separately and assemble your grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon just before serving.

“Is grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon good for meal prep?”

Absolutely! It’s excellent for easy meal prep. Keep dressing separate to avoid soggy greens when packing for lunches.

“What’s the best way to store grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon?”

Store leftover chicken and prepped vegetables in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add dressing right before eating; I find this keeps everything perfectly fresh.

“Are there healthier substitutes for this grilled chicken salad recipe?”

To boost health, use a homemade vinaigrette with less oil, add more leafy greens, or incorporate vibrant vegetables like bell peppers for extra crunch.

“Can I use a different protein instead of chicken in this salad?”

Yes, grilled salmon, shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs work wonderfully. For a plant-based option, try grilled halloumi or seasoned chickpeas.

“How do I get perfect grill marks on my chicken?”

Ensure your grill is hot (medium-high), clean, and lightly oiled. Don’t move chicken for the first few minutes, allowing distinct marks to form.

“What if I don’t have ruby tomatoes?”

Any ripe, flavorful tomato like Roma, cherry, or grape tomatoes sliced in half works beautifully in this grilled chicken salad recipe. Fresh, sweet tomatoes are key for flavor.

Conclusion

This grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon makes healthy, delicious eating achievable and enjoyable for everyone, perfect for quick meals and family dinners.

Try this vibrant, easy recipe tonight and taste the difference, or save this recipe on Pinterest for your next weekly meal prep! Enjoy your healthy eating journey!

grilled chicken salad recipe Ruby Tomato and Avocado Ribbon

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• Author: Sarah Williams
• Total Time: 54 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: General

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Description

This grilled chicken salad features tender chicken, ruby tomatoes, and creamy avocado ribbons over crisp romaine lettuce, tossed with a simple tangy dressing. It’s a vibrant, healthy, and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy families.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 400 g)
• 1 head romaine lettuce, firm and unblemished
• 2–3 ruby tomatoes, like Roma or heirloom, deep red and firm
• 2 ripe avocados, yielding slightly to gentle pressure
• 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin often used)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (apple cider vinegar also works)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• salt to taste
• pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat two large chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, lightly coat them with 1 tbsp olive oil, 0.5 tsp garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the fridge for deeper flavor.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400(degree)F or 200(degree)C). Place the seasoned chicken on the hot grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until nice grill marks appear and the internal temperature reaches 165(degree)F (74(degree)C). Let the chicken rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
3. Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken rests, wash and chop one head of romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Slice 2-3 ruby tomatoes into attractive wedges. For the avocado ribbons, halve two ripe avocados, remove the pit, scoop out the flesh with a spoon, and slice thinly lengthwise.
4. Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is emulsified and looks slightly creamy.
5. Assemble Your Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, sliced grilled chicken, ruby tomatoes, and delicate avocado ribbons. Drizzle with the freshly whisked dressing. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly without bruising the lettuce.

Notes

For a faster meal, use pre-cooked grilled chicken strips or shredded rotisserie chicken. Enhance nutrition by adding baby spinach, kale, or toasted pumpkin seeds. Always dress the salad immediately before serving to prevent sogginess. Use ripe but firm avocados and add them right before serving to prevent browning.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad serving
• Calories: 280 calories
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg

Keywords: grilled chicken, chicken salad, avocado, ruby tomatoes, healthy dinner, quick meal, family favorite, low carb, easy recipe