Strips & Avocado Toast
Crispy, golden-brown chicken strips paired with creamy smashed avocado on crusty toasted bread. A satisfying open-faced sandwich that balances crunchy, juicy chicken with rich, buttery avocado—ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~3 min
Season the chicken strips.
1.Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels.2.In a bowl, toss strips with minced garlic, smoked paprika, 0.25 tsp salt, and black pepper.3.Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and massage to coat evenly. - prep · ~2 min
Prepare the avocado smash.
1.Halve the avocados, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.2.Add lemon juice and the remaining 0.25 tsp salt.3.Mash with a fork to your desired consistency—chunky or smooth.TIPA squeeze of lemon not only adds tang but keeps the avocado from turning brown. - grill · ~7 min
Grill the chicken strips.
1.Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat until smoking hot.2.Place the chicken strips in a single layer and cook without moving for 3–4 minutes.3.Flip and cook the other side until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (2–3 minutes).4.Transfer to a plate and let rest.TIPDon't crowd the pan—cook in two batches if needed. Proper spacing gives you a golden sear instead of steaming. - grill · ~4 min
Toast the bread.
1.Brush the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil on both sides of each bread slice.2.Place on the same hot grill pan and toast until golden-brown grill marks appear (1–2 minutes per side). - assemble · ~2 min
Assemble the toasts.
1.Spread a generous layer of avocado smash on each toast.2.Slice the rested chicken strips and arrange them over the avocado.3.Top with halved cherry tomatoes, a pinch of chili flakes, and fresh cilantro. - serve
Serve immediately while the toast is crisp and the chicken is warm.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pat the chicken strips very dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden sear.
- 2Let the grilled chicken rest for at least 2 minutes before slicing to keep juices inside.
- 3Use a ripe avocado that yields to gentle pressure for the creamiest smash.
- 4Toast the bread on the same grill pan to pick up smoky chicken residue for extra flavor.
- 5Don't overcrowd the grill pan — cook chicken in batches to get a proper crust.
- 6Make the avocado smash just before assembling to prevent browning.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy chipotle
Add 1 tsp chipotle powder to the chicken seasoning and top with sliced jalapeño for a smoky heat that complements the creamy avocado.
high proteinHigh-protein
Swap sourdough for two large lettuce cups to reduce carbs, and add a poached egg on top for extra protein.
veganVegan
Replace chicken with 400g firm tofu strips, marinated in the same garlic-paprika mix, and grill until golden. Use a plant-based bread.
herb crustedHerb-crusted
Mix 2 tbsp dried oregano and thyme into the chicken seasoning for a Mediterranean twist that pairs well with the cherry tomatoes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Avocado provides monounsaturated fats that are great for heart health and help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the other ingredients.
Lean Protein Source
Chicken breast is a low-fat, high-quality protein that supports muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
Rich in Vitamin C
Cherry tomatoes and lemon juice contribute vitamin C, which boosts iron absorption and supports immune function.
Good Source of Potassium
Avocado and tomatoes both provide potassium, an essential electrolyte for muscle function and blood pressure regulation.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well — they are juicier and more forgiving, but may need an extra minute per side to reach 165°F.



