Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Avocados abound with such a rich array of healthy nutrients that they’ve been called “nature’s most perfect food.” In this easy, low-calorie recipe, an avocado-tomato salsa is paired with tender, perfectly grilled chicken. The result is a delightful blend of classic Southwestern flavors your family and friends are sure to love. You can also vary the recipe by replacing the cilantro with parsley or other fresh herbs of your choice. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with grilled tofu or meatless chicken tenders.

For the chicken

• ¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro 
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced 
• ½ teaspoon cumin 
• 1 tablespoon lime zest 
• 2 tablespoon fresh lime juice 
• ½ teaspoon black pepper 
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 
• 2 pounds raw skinless chicken (once cooked = four 6 oz. servings) 

For the salsa

• 3 medium avocados, cubed 
• ½ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, minced 
• 1 cup tomatoes, chopped 
• 2 tablespoons chopped red onion 
• 2 tablespoon lime juice 
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes 

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cilantro, garlic, lime zest and juice, cumin and olive oil. Season with black pepper, to taste. Add chicken to the marinade in a large ziplock bag and marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until no longer pink. Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken from grill and transfer to a serving platter.

Combine all salsa ingredients in a medium bowl and toss gently to mix. Top chicken with salsa and enjoy! Adapted from joyfulhealthyeats.com and gimmedelicous.com. And we offer a special thank you to Jennifer Kingdon Weaver for alerting us to this delicious recipe!

Heart Benefits of Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

This heart healthy grilled chicken recipe offers more than just great taste. The chicken provides lean protein that supports muscle health and helps maintain a healthy weight, both of which reduce strain on the heart. The lime juice and cilantro add freshness while also contributing antioxidants that support circulation.

The avocado salsa recipe is a powerhouse of nutrients. Avocados are rich in fiber, potassium, and healthy fats, which support cholesterol balance and help manage blood pressure. Tomatoes add lycopene, an antioxidant linked to improved arterial health, while red onion provides compounds that may support better blood flow. Together, these ingredients create a light avocado salsa chicken recipe that aligns well with a Mediterranean-style lime chicken salsa approach, long considered beneficial for heart wellness.

Even better, this dish is naturally gluten-free heart healthy chicken, making it a versatile choice for almost any diet.

FAQs

Is grilled chicken good for heart patients?

Yes. Grilled chicken is lean, lower in fat, and provides quality protein. Recipes like grilled cilantro lime chicken are particularly good since they avoid heavy frying and use fresh, heart-smart ingredients.

How to cook chicken for heart patients?

The best way is to grill, bake, or steam it without excess oil or salt. A heart healthy grilled chicken recipe like this one, topped with a fresh avocado salsa recipe, makes a flavorful and safe option.

How many calories are in cilantro lime chicken?

One serving of this light avocado salsa chicken recipe comes in at about 350–400 calories, depending on portion size. It’s nutrient-rich and fits well into a balanced heart diet.