Avocado Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Avocado Chicken Salad is the perfect combination of creamy and hearty. The avocado adds a luscious richness to the salad, while the chicken provides a satisfying protein boost. With crunchy vegetables like celery and red onion, a burst of fresh lime juice, and a light dressing made with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, this salad is both flavorful and refreshing. It’s versatile, easy to make, and great for meal prep, as it stays fresh for a couple of days in the fridge. Plus, it’s a perfect option for anyone looking for a healthier, more filling salad!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (about 2 medium chicken breasts)

• 1 ripe avocado, diced

• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)

• 1/4 cup corn kernels (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a creamier version)

• 1 tablespoon lime juice (or lemon juice)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional, for extra flavor)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Preparing the Chicken Salad:

1. Shred or dice the chicken: If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, cook your chicken breasts by boiling, baking, or grilling them until they are fully cooked. Once cooled, shred the chicken with two forks or dice it into small cubes.

2. Prepare the vegetables: Dice the avocado, chop the celery, and finely chop the red onion and fresh cilantro (if using). If you’re adding corn, drain and rinse any canned corn or use fresh kernels.

3. Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken, diced avocado, chopped celery, red onion, and cilantro (if using). Gently toss the ingredients together to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.

Making the Dressing:

1. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, cumin (if using), and salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more lime juice or salt for brightness.

2. Add the dressing: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture and gently toss everything together until well-coated. Be careful not to mash the avocado too much while mixing.

Serving:

Serve the Avocado Chicken Salad immediately on a bed of mixed greens, in a wrap, or as a sandwich filling. You can also serve it as a side dish or in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.

Optional Garnishes:

For extra flavor and color, garnish with extra cilantro, a sprinkle of chili powder, or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Avocado Chicken Salad: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

• Creamier Version: Swap the Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier, richer dressing.

• Add Nuts: For a bit of crunch, toss in some toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.

• Grilled Chicken: Use grilled chicken for added smoky flavor, or substitute the chicken with rotisserie chicken for a quicker, no-cook option.

• Add Fruits: For a fruity twist, add diced apples, grapes, or pomegranate seeds for extra sweetness and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The salad may brown slightly due to the avocado, but it will still taste delicious.

• Refrigerating: If you need to keep the salad for longer, consider storing the avocado and dressing separately, then combining them just before serving to keep the avocado fresh.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and works perfectly in this salad. Just shred or chop it and mix it in with the other ingredients.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad ahead of time. However, the avocado might brown slightly after a few hours, so it’s best to add it shortly before serving or store it separately until ready to eat.

Can I use other types of protein instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The dressing and other ingredients will still work wonderfully with these variations.

How do I prevent the avocado from turning brown?

To prevent the avocado from browning, you can add a little extra lime or lemon juice, which helps preserve its color. If preparing ahead, store the avocado separately and add it just before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This Avocado Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone following a gluten-free diet.

Conclusion

Avocado Chicken Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines healthy ingredients into a refreshing and satisfying meal. With creamy avocado, tender chicken, and a zesty dressing, it’s a perfect choice for a light lunch or dinner. Whether you serve it on greens, in a wrap, or as a filling for sandwiches, this salad is a versatile dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Quick to prepare, nutritious, and bursting with flavor, this Avocado Chicken Salad is a must-try!

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