Grilled Turmeric-Spiced Chicken Salad with Avocado
Juicy grilled chicken marinated in turmeric and spices served over fresh mixed greens with creamy avocado and a citrus dressing. This mediterranean-inspired healthy bowls (high protein, gluten free) ready in about 35 minutes pairs ground turmeric, ground cumin, garlic powder for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart.
Ingredients
- 2 (6 oz each) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp, divided extra virgin olive oil
- 3/4 tsp, divided salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 medium, diced ripe avocado
- 1 cup, halved grape tomatoes
- 1 small, thinly sliced cucumber
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tsp ground turmeric, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Rub this marinade evenly over 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each). Let marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature.
- Step 2: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Drizzle the grill with 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side until firm to the touch and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Step 3: While chicken cooks, toss 4 cups mixed salad greens with 1 cup halved grape tomatoes, 1 small thinly sliced cucumber, and 1 diced medium avocado in a large bowl.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp honey, and a pinch of 1/4 tsp salt to make the dressing.
- Step 5: Slice grilled chicken into strips and arrange on top of the salad. Drizzle the lemon-honey dressing over the salad and gently toss just before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Grilled Turmeric-Spiced Chicken Salad with Avocado take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.
How do I store leftover Grilled Turmeric-Spiced Chicken Salad with Avocado?
Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep ground turmeric from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled Turmeric-Spiced Chicken Salad with Avocado?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Grilled Turmeric-Spiced Chicken Salad with Avocado for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Grilled Turmeric-Spiced Chicken Salad with Avocado high protein?
Yes — this recipe is tagged high protein, gluten free, low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
This is my new go-to recipe for meal prep. So easy and delicious!
- ★★★★★
Loved the turmeric flavor, and the avocado made it creamy. Perfect for a healthy lunch!
- ★★★★☆
The chicken was a bit bland for my taste, but the avocado and salad made it great. Next time I'll add more spices.