There’s nothing quite like the sound of chicken sizzling on the grill, especially when it’s marinated in fragrant herbs and spices. Last week, after a long day filled with deadlines, I craved a comforting yet vibrant meal that would lift my spirits. That’s when I decided to whip up my Grilled Herb Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries and Avocado Salsa. The combination is a delightful surprise! Juicy, flavorful chicken pairs beautifully with the crispy sweetness of the fries, while the creamy avocado salsa adds that much-needed zing.
This dish is perfect for those evenings when you want a nourishing dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich sweet potatoes, and healthy fats from the avocado, it checks all the boxes for a quick, balanced meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, this recipe promises to make mouths water and hearts happy. Let’s dive in and create a scrumptious feast that brings joy and satisfaction to your table!
Why love Grilled Herb Chicken tonight?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: Marinated chicken paired with crispy sweet potato fries and zesty avocado salsa delivers an unforgettable taste experience.
Healthy ingredients: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.
Versatile dish: Feel free to swap ingredients, like using tofu for chicken, ensuring everyone enjoys a meal tailored to their taste.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds!
Grilled Herb Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Tenders – The primary protein source, marinate for extra flavor.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness while grilling; substitute with avocado oil for a different taste.
• Spices (e.g., garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper) – Elevates the chicken’s flavor; adjust amounts based on your preference.
For the Sweet Potato Fries
• Sweet Potatoes – Rich in fiber and vitamins; frozen fries can be used for convenience.
For the Avocado Salsa
• Avocado – Provides creaminess and healthy fats; mango can be a delicious substitute.
• Lime Juice – Gives a bright lift to the salsa; lemon juice works well too.
• Cilantro – Adds a fresh herbal note; parsley can stand in if cilantro’s not on hand.
Each ingredient in this Grilled Herb Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries and Avocado Salsa recipe plays a key role in achieving the delightful balance of flavors and textures.
How to Make Grilled Herb Chicken
Marinate Chicken: Combine olive oil with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken tenders in this delicious mix and let them marinate for at least an hour to soak up those vibrant flavors.
Prep Sweet Potatoes: Slice fresh sweet potatoes into wedges, or if you’re short on time, grab a bag of frozen fries. Bake or fry them until they’re crispy and golden brown, usually about 20-25 minutes at 425°F.
Grill Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it stays juicy.
Make Avocado Salsa: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced avocado, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently until well mixed, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully.
Assemble Dish: Arrange your grilled chicken on a plate alongside the crispy sweet potato fries, and generously top it all with the vibrant avocado salsa for a burst of color and flavor.
Optional: Garnish with extra lime wedges for an added zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Herb Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover grilled herb chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep it separate from sweet potato fries to maintain texture.
Freezer: Freeze the grilled chicken wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until heated through, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
Salsa Storage: Keep the avocado salsa in a separate airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days to prevent browning; add a little lime juice to help with preservation.
Expert Tips for Grilled Herb Chicken
Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2-4 hours, or even overnight if possible.
Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring juicy chicken without the risk of drying out.
Crispy Fries: If using frozen sweet potato fries, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this helps them get crispy instead of soggy.
Salsa Freshness: Keep avocado salsa separate from the chicken and fries until serving to maintain its freshness and creamy texture.
Customization Options: Experiment with spices or add ingredients like chili flakes for a kick while preparing your Grilled Herb Chicken to suit your taste.
What to Serve with Grilled Herb Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries and Avocado Salsa?
Elevate your grilled meal into a feast that delights all senses and stirs up conversation at the table.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the flavors of the chicken and sweet potatoes.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted, buttery garlic bread brings a warm, crispy element that’s perfect for sopping up the zesty avocado salsa.
- Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers complement the herbaceous chicken, creating a colorful and healthy side.
- Coconut Rice: Light and subtly sweet, coconut rice provides a delightful complement that enhances the tropical notes of the avocado salsa.
- Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens tossed with a citrus vinaigrette brightens the palette and adds a light, crisp contrast to the dish.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage like lemonade or iced tea offers a sweet respite while harmonizing beautifully with savory flavors.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, a rich, creamy mousse made from avocado echoes the flavors in your meal while satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn brushed with lime butter makes a perfect hand-held side that brings that barbecue spirit to your table.
- Yogurt Dip: A cool, tangy yogurt-based dip pairs well with the chicken and fries, providing a creamy contrast alongside the salsa.
- Fruit Salad: Finish the meal with a light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits, adding a refreshing end to a satisfying dinner.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Herb Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries and Avocado Salsa are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can marinate the chicken tenders up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the olive oil and spices, coat the chicken, and refrigerate. For the sweet potato fries, slice them into wedges or prepare frozen fries ahead of time, storing them in the freezer. The avocado salsa can be made a few hours before serving, but remember to add the diced avocado right before you serve to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, just grill the chicken, bake the fries, and assemble everything for a vibrant, fresh meal that’s just as delicious!
Variations & Substitutions for Grilled Herb Chicken
Feel free to personalize this dish with these exciting twists that will tickle your taste buds and keep your meals lively!
Veggie-Loaded: Use zucchini or carrots instead of sweet potatoes for a colorful and crunchy alternative that complements the grilled chicken beautifully. Their natural sweetness shines through and adds a new flavor dimension.
Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into your avocado salsa for an extra layer of heat. This fiery addition enhances the freshness and creates a delightful contrast.
Herb Swaps: If cilantro isn’t your thing, fresh parsley or basil can stand in beautifully for the salsa, offering a different, yet refreshing herbaceous note that makes every bite a joy.
Low-Carb Option: Swap sweet potatoes for roasted cauliflower or air-fried broccoli for a delicious, low-carb version that still delivers on flavor and texture. These veggies hold up beautifully next to the savory chicken.
Whole Grain Twist: Try serving the grilled chicken over a bed of quinoa or brown rice instead of fries for a hearty, wholesome approach. This base not only adds fiber but also pairs wonderfully with the zesty salsa.
Citrus Infusion: Want to elevate the flavor further? Replace lime juice with a splash of orange or grapefruit juice in your salsa for a bright, fruity twist that transports you to sunny days.
Creamy Replacement: Swap out avocado for a creamy Greek yogurt in your salsa to keep that rich texture while providing a tangy twist—perfect if you’re looking for a lighter option!
Exploring these variations allows you to make this meal your own and keeps your dinner table fun and exciting every time!
Grilled Herb Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries and Avocado Salsa Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when choosing sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and smooth, without any dark spots or blemishes. The skin should be a rich, vibrant color, indicating freshness. Avoid those that feel soft or have dark spots all over, as they may be starting to spoil.
How should I store leftover grilled herb chicken and sweet potato fries?
To keep your grilled herb chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For sweet potato fries, consume them quickly as they tend to become soggy; ideally, store them in a separate container for maximum crispiness.
Can I freeze grilled herb chicken?
Very! To freeze your grilled herb chicken, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. It can be stored like this for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
What if my chicken is overcooked or dry?
Don’t worry! If your chicken turns out a bit dry, you can always slice it and serve it with a drizzle of olive oil or a flavorful sauce to add moisture. You can also shred the chicken and mix it into salads or wraps where the extra sauce can help retain moisture.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions (like allergies)?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to avoid certain ingredients, consider using coconut oil instead of olive oil, and sub out spices that may trigger allergies. For the avocado salsa, if you’re allergic to avocados, diced mango is a fantastic alternative—it brings a similar creamy texture and a touch of sweetness that pairs well too!
Savor Grilled Herb Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries & Avocado Salsa
Equipment
- - Grill
- - Mixing bowl
- - Baking sheet
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound Chicken Tenders Marinate for extra flavor
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to taste
For the Sweet Potato Fries
- 2 medium Sweet Potatoes Or use frozen fries
For the Avocado Salsa
- 1 medium Avocado Can substitute with mango
- 1 tablespoon Lime Juice Can use lemon juice
- 0.5 cup Cilantro Can substitute with parsley
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Combine olive oil with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken tenders in this mix and let marinate for at least an hour.
- Slice sweet potatoes into wedges, or use frozen fries. Bake or fry until crispy and golden, about 20-25 minutes at 425°F.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through to 165°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced avocado, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently.
- Arrange grilled chicken on a plate with crispy sweet potato fries and top with avocado salsa.