Looking for a salad that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying? Grilled Chicken Salad with Pineapple & Avocado delivers the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and creamy flavors. Whether you’re prepping a quick lunch or a light dinner, this vibrant dish brings tropical vibes to your table — all while keeping things healthy and delicious!
In this article, you’ll discover how to make this irresistible salad, tips to customize it to your taste, and why it should become a staple in your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe
Grilled Chicken Salad with Pineapple & Avocado isn’t just any ordinary salad. Here’s why it stands out:
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Nutrient-packed: A great source of lean protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
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Flavorful: Combines smoky grilled chicken, juicy pineapple, and creamy avocado.
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Quick to prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes.
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Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
Whether you’re watching your carbs, boosting your protein, or simply want a delicious and colorful meal, this salad fits the bill.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Salad with Pineapple & Avocado
Here’s everything you need to create your own Grilled Chicken Salad with Pineapple & Avocado:
the Salad
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 ripe avocado, sliced
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1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
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6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine)
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½ red onion, thinly sliced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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¼ cup fresh cilantro or mint (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Marinade
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dressing
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Grilled Chicken Salad (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to make a salad that bursts with flavor:
Marinate the Chicken for Your Grilled Chicken Salad
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In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Add chicken breasts and coat well.
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Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
Grill the Chicken & Pineapple
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Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
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Grill chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
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During the last 2–3 minutes, grill pineapple chunks until caramelized and lightly charred.
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Let chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
Assemble the Perfect Grilled Chicken Salad
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In a large bowl or platter, layer the mixed greens.
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Top with grilled chicken slices, grilled pineapple, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs.
Make the Dressing for Grilled Chicken Salad
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In a small jar, whisk or shake olive oil, honey, lime juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Drizzle over the salad just before serving.
Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken Salad with Pineapple & Avocado
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Use ripe avocados for maximum creaminess.
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Don’t overcook the chicken — juicy grilled chicken is key.
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Grill pineapple until slightly caramelized for extra sweetness.
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Make ahead: Grill extra chicken and pineapple and store them separately to assemble fresh salads throughout the week.
Variations & Add-Ins
Customize your Grilled Chicken Salad with Pineapple & Avocado with these ideas:
Protein Swaps
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Grilled shrimp
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Grilled tofu
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Seared salmon
Extra Toppings
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Feta or goat cheese
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Toasted nuts (almonds, pecans, cashews)
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Cucumber slices
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Black beans or corn
Dressing Ideas
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Creamy cilantro-lime dressing
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Spicy chipotle vinaigrette
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Yogurt-based dressing
Health Benefits of Grilled Chicken Salad with Pineapple & Avocado
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Grilled Chicken: Lean source of protein to support muscle growth.
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Avocado: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber.
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Pineapple: Packed with vitamin C and digestive enzymes (bromelain).
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Greens and veggies: Provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
This salad is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made low-carb or dairy-free.
FAQ:
1. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, but for the best flavor, fresh pineapple is preferred. If using canned, choose pineapple in juice (not syrup) and drain well before grilling.
2. How long can I store leftovers?
Store salad components separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble fresh when ready to eat to maintain texture.
3. What type of greens works best?
Any greens you like! Arugula, spinach, romaine, mixed baby greens, or even kale can work wonderfully.
4. Is this salad good for meal prep?
Absolutely! Grill extra chicken and pineapple ahead of time. Pack separately from the greens and dressing, then assemble when ready.
5. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Swap grilled chicken for grilled tofu, tempeh, or extra avocado and beans for a hearty plant-based version.
Conclusion: Add This Vibrant Salad to Your Weekly Menu
Grilled Chicken Salad with Pineapple & Avocado is a colorful, flavor-packed dish you’ll love making again and again. It’s perfect for warm-weather meals, quick lunches, or healthy dinners. With its juicy grilled chicken, sweet pineapple, and creamy avocado, this salad hits all the right notes.
