Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked. Once done, remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Prepare the salad ingredients:
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced avocado, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shredded carrots (if using). Toss gently to combine.
Make the avocado dressing:
In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired dressing consistency.
Assemble the salad:
Add the grilled chicken slices to the salad. Drizzle the avocado dressing over the top and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
Serve:
Serve the salad immediately, or chill it for 10-15 minutes if you prefer a cooler dish.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serve fresh: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate the dressing separately for up to 2 days.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
Variants:
- Add Crunch: Top the salad with some toasted nuts (like almonds or walnuts) or seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower) for added texture.
- Spicy Version: Add some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the salad or dressing for a bit of heat.
- Cheese Option: Sprinkle with feta cheese, goat cheese, or shredded mozzarella for an extra layer of flavor.
FAQ:
1. Can I use grilled chicken leftovers?
Yes! Leftover grilled chicken works perfectly for this salad, making it a great option for meal prepping.
2. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the avocado dressing can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before using.
3. Can I substitute the avocado in the dressing?
If you’re not a fan of avocado, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture, though the flavor will be a little different.