Avocado Chicken Salad

This Avocado Chicken Salad brings together the creamy goodness of ripe avocado, tender chicken, and a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing and satisfying dish. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, it’s a versatile recipe you can enjoy as a light lunch or dinner.

Perfect for meal prep or a quick weekday fix, this salad is as easy as it is delicious. Serve it solo, wrap it in a tortilla, or scoop it onto your favorite greens for a vibrant and nutritious meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
• 1 large avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced avocado, red onion, and fresh cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss to combine.
4. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice, if desired.
5. Serve immediately on its own, in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes

Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Origins and Inspiration

Avocado Chicken Salad combines classic chicken salad with the creamy, nutrient-rich addition of avocado. This dish is inspired by the fresh and wholesome flavors of California cuisine, where avocados are a staple ingredient in many recipes. By incorporating a lime-based dressing, the salad gets a subtle tanginess that complements the creamy avocado and tender chicken perfectly.

Health Benefits

This recipe is packed with nutrients and is an excellent option for those seeking healthy and balanced meals:

1. Avocado: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and essential vitamins like potassium and vitamin E.
2. Chicken: A great source of lean protein to keep you full and energized.
3. Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess without the need for heavy mayonnaise while providing calcium and probiotics.
4. Lime Juice: A natural source of vitamin C, it boosts immunity and enhances flavor.

This salad is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and can easily fit into keto or paleo diets by substituting Greek yogurt with coconut cream or similar alternatives.

Customizations

• Spices: Add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the dressing for a deeper flavor profile.
• Extras: Include chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) for crunch or sprinkle in dried cranberries for a sweet touch.
• Vegetables: Mix in diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for added texture and freshness.
• Cheese: For a richer flavor, crumble feta or add a handful of shredded cheddar.

Serving Suggestions

1. Wraps and Sandwiches: Spread the salad inside whole-grain wraps or sandwich it between slices of your favorite bread for a portable lunch.
2. Over Greens: Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a vibrant and hearty salad bowl.
3. Avocado Bowls: Hollow out a halved avocado and stuff it with the chicken salad for a fun and healthy presentation.

Cooking Tips

1. Chicken Preparation: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or poach chicken breasts for a leaner option. Ensure the chicken is well-seasoned before incorporating it into the salad.
2. Ripe Avocados: Choose ripe yet firm avocados to ensure they mix well without turning mushy.
3. Prevent Browning: The lime juice helps prevent the avocado from browning, but if you’re prepping this salad ahead of time, store it in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed against the surface.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Avocado Chicken Salad is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a summer brunch, meal-prepping for the week, or whipping up a quick lunch, this recipe adapts to your needs. It’s a satisfying, feel-good meal that takes just 10 minutes to prepare but delivers bold flavors and health benefits in every bite.

Nutritional Highlights

Avocado Chicken Salad isn’t just delicious; it’s a nutritional powerhouse:

• High in Protein: The chicken provides a lean protein source that supports muscle growth and keeps you feeling full.
• Healthy Fats: Avocado is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are excellent for heart health.
• Low in Carbs: Ideal for those on keto or low-carb diets.
• Rich in Vitamins: Avocado and lime juice deliver essential vitamins like B6, C, E, and K.
• Probiotics: The Greek yogurt dressing supports gut health.

Each serving of this salad is approximately 210 calories, making it a great choice for those managing their caloric intake.

Flavor Profile

This salad strikes a balance of creamy, zesty, and savory flavors:

• The avocado adds a luscious, buttery texture.
• The lime juice provides a fresh citrus tang that brightens the dish.
• The Greek yogurt dressing adds a mild tanginess and creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor.
• The cilantro introduces an herbal note, while the red onion gives a subtle crunch and sharpness.

Perfect Occasions for Serving

This recipe is versatile enough for various occasions:

• Lunchbox Staple: Easy to pack and stays fresh when stored properly.
• Light Dinner: Pair with a side of soup or crusty bread for a full meal.
• Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Party Dish: Serve it as a dip with tortilla chips or cucumber slices for gatherings.

Storage Tips

• Short-Term Storage: Place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Prevent Browning: To keep the avocado from browning, squeeze extra lime juice over the salad before sealing the container.
• Avoid Freezing: Avocado does not freeze well and may alter the texture of the salad.

Common Questions

1. Can I use canned chicken? Yes, canned chicken works well in this recipe. Just drain and shred it before mixing.
2. What’s a good substitute for Greek yogurt? You can use sour cream, mayo, or a dairy-free yogurt for a similar creamy texture.
3. How can I make it dairy-free? Swap the Greek yogurt for mashed avocado or a non-dairy yogurt alternative.
4. Can I make this vegetarian? Substitute the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh for a plant-based version.

Pairing Ideas

• Beverages: Serve with iced tea, a light lemonade, or sparkling water infused with lime.
• Sides: Pair with whole-grain crackers, pita chips, or roasted sweet potato wedges for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Mix Gently: Avocado can become mushy if overmixed. Fold the ingredients together gently for the best texture.
2. Season to Taste: Start with less salt and lime juice, then adjust to your preference after tasting.
3. Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh for the optimal creamy texture and vibrant flavors.