Zesty Grilled Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries & Chunky Guacamole: A Flavor-Packed Trio for Any Season

If you’re looking for a meal that strikes the perfect balance between zesty, hearty, and fresh, look no further than this Zesty Grilled Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries & Chunky Guacamole. This vibrant dish brings together the smoky char of citrus-marinated chicken, the crispy satisfaction of oven-roasted sweet potato fries, and the creamy, punchy delight of homemade guacamole.

Ideal for summer grilling, fall gatherings, or healthy weeknight dinners, this colorful plate is packed with nutrients and bold flavors. It’s a full meal that hits every note: protein-rich, fiber-filled, and naturally gluten-free—with a harmony of spice, sweetness, and richness that keeps you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is more than just the sum of its parts. Each component complements the others to create a complete, satisfying experience:

• Zesty chicken: Marinated in lime, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection.

• Crispy sweet potato fries: Naturally sweet, slightly smoky, and oven-baked until golden.

• Chunky guacamole: Creamy avocado with texture from diced onions, tomato, and fresh cilantro.

Together, they form a vibrant plate that’s hearty, healthy, and packed with real-food ingredients.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Zesty Grilled Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Juice of 2 limes

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sweet Potato Fries:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin wedges or matchsticks

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (for extra crispiness)

For the Chunky Guacamole:

• 2 ripe avocados

• 1 small tomato, diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: diced jalapeño for heat

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Optional Additions and Variations

• Dairy twist: Add crumbled queso fresco or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

• Grain base: Serve over brown rice or cauliflower rice for a burrito bowl feel.

• Extra veggies: Add grilled bell peppers or zucchini to the plate.

• Spice it up: Add chipotle powder to the chicken marinade or guacamole.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and all spices.

2. Add the chicken and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

3. Bring to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.

Tip: Thighs stay juicier on the grill, but breasts also work well with this marinade.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Fries

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Toss sweet potato slices in olive oil, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap.

4. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Pro tip: For crispier fries, soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then dry thoroughly before seasoning.

Step 3: Make the Chunky Guacamole

1. Scoop the avocados into a bowl and roughly mash with a fork—leave some chunks for texture.

2. Stir in tomato, onion, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning. Cover with plastic wrap touching the surface if not serving immediately.

Optional: Add a splash of olive oil for a silkier texture.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

2. Cook the marinated chicken for 5–6 minutes per side (thighs may take slightly longer), or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

3. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

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Assemble the Plate

1. Arrange a portion of sweet potato fries on one side of the plate.

2. Slice grilled chicken and lay it alongside the fries.

3. Scoop a generous serving of chunky guacamole on the plate.

4. Garnish with fresh lime wedges and cilantro if desired.

This plate is colorful, satisfying, and perfectly balanced in flavor and texture.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with:

• A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette

• Grilled corn or elote-style corn on the cob

• A sparkling lime water or chilled hibiscus tea

Perfect for casual summer dinners, outdoor grilling nights, or a healthy meal prep option that feels like comfort food.

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Meal Prep and Storage Tips

• Chicken: Cooked grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Sweet potato fries: Best fresh, but can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

• Guacamole: Store in a small container with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to minimize browning—use within 24–48 hours.

Meal prep idea: Divide all components into meal containers for grab-and-go lunches during the week.

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Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

Serves 4

• Calories: 510

• Protein: 38g

• Fat: 28g

• Carbohydrates: 32g

• Fiber: 9g

• Net Carbs: 23g

Naturally gluten-free and can be easily adjusted to suit paleo, Whole30, or keto preferences by modifying the sweet potatoes and seasoning.

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Why This Recipe Works

This dish succeeds because it brings together:

• Bold flavors: The zesty marinade wakes up your taste buds.

• Textural contrast: Crisp fries, creamy guacamole, tender grilled chicken.

• Nutritious balance: A smart mix of lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats.

• Customizability: Each element can be tweaked or prepped ahead.

It’s the kind of meal you can feel great about eating and even better about serving.

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Tips for Success

• Use a meat thermometer: Avoid dry chicken by checking for doneness at 165°F.

• Don’t overcrowd fries: Spread them out on the baking sheet for maximum crisp.

• Marinate longer for deeper flavor: But even 30 minutes makes a big difference.

• Guacamole freshness: Add lime juice last to preserve the green color.

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Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish fits beautifully into:

• Weeknight dinners: Quick enough for after work, flavorful enough to feel special.

• Healthy BBQs: Great grilled main for guests with dietary restrictions.

• Meal prep Sundays: Make all three components ahead and enjoy throughout the week.

• Game night: Serve platter-style with extra guac and dips for a healthier alternative to wings and nachos.

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FAQs About Zesty Grilled Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries and Guacamole

Can I use an air fryer for the fries?
Absolutely. Cook at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crisp.

Can I use chicken drumsticks or wings?
Yes, just adjust the cooking time and ensure they’re cooked through.

What’s the best substitute for cilantro in the guacamole?
Try flat-leaf parsley or a bit of green onion if cilantro isn’t your thing.

Can I grill the sweet potatoes?
Yes! Parboil slices for 5 minutes, then grill for charred edges.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick. You can leave out the cayenne or add more chili powder to adjust heat.

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Final Thoughts

This Zesty Grilled Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries & Chunky Guacamole recipe is the ultimate trifecta of fresh, flavorful, and filling. It’s everything you want in a wholesome meal: protein-packed, loaded with color and crunch, and bursting with real, satisfying ingredients.

Whether you’re looking for a new meal prep go-to or a recipe to wow your guests without turning on the oven for hours, this dish is your answer. It’s simple, customizable, and always delicious.

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Try It Tonight

Fire up the grill, preheat the oven, and bring this bold, nourishing plate to life. This recipe proves that wholesome food doesn’t have to be boring—and that bold flavor can fit right into your healthy lifestyle.

Don’t forget to share your version, pair it with your favorite sides, and come back for more real-food inspiration

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