Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This avocado chicken salad is more than just a meal—it’s a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition. With its nutrient-dense ingredients, this dish provides a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The combination of creamy avocado and tender chicken is a satisfying and delicious duo, while fresh veggies add a crunchy texture. Whether you are meal prepping or just looking for a healthy option to spice up your week, this recipe is quick to prepare and easily customizable.

Ingredients

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

2 large ripe avocados
2 cups cooked chicken breast diced (about 2 medium breasts)
¼ cup red onion finely diced
¼ cup celery finely diced
¼ cup red bell pepper diced
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
2 tablespoons lime juice
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup Greek yogurt for extra creaminess

Directions

If using raw chicken, season it with salt and pepper and grill or bake it until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Let it cool and then dice it into small cubes.
Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into a large bowl.
Mash the avocado with a fork until it reaches your desired consistency (smooth or slightly chunky).
Add the diced chicken, red onion, celery, and red bell pepper to the bowl with the mashed avocado.
Sprinkle in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
For extra creaminess, mix in the Greek yogurt.
Gently fold all ingredients together until well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add more lime juice, salt, or pepper to suit your taste.
Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

This avocado chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations to try:

Mediterranean Twist: Add crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired version.
Spicy Mexican Version: Include diced jalapeños and extra cilantro for a zesty kick.
Asian-Inspired Salad: Add a dash of sesame oil and grated ginger for a unique flavor.
Fruit-Infused Option: For a sweet twist, toss in diced apples or halved grapes.

Storage/Reheating

This avocado chicken salad is best served fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, place it in an airtight container. To prevent browning, cover the surface with a layer of plastic wrap directly on the salad. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the salad may lose some of its creaminess and texture over time due to the avocado.

Reheating is not recommended, as the salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm option, serve it in lettuce wraps or on toast for a fun twist.

FAQs

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

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and will still provide plenty of flavor for your salad.

How can I make this salad spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños, a pinch of chili flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce to give it some heat.

Can I make this avocado chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the salad right before serving to ensure the avocado stays fresh.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with mixed greens, a light soup, or even some whole-grain toast or crackers.

How can I keep the avocado from browning?

Cover the surface of the salad with plastic wrap before storing it in an airtight container. This will help prevent the avocado from oxidizing and turning brown.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding cucumbers, tomatoes, or even avocado to increase the flavor and texture variety.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I use any other type of dressing?

While the lime juice and avocado provide enough creaminess, you can add a little olive oil or a Greek yogurt-based dressing for extra flavor.

Can I use non-dairy alternatives for creaminess?

Yes, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt or leave it out altogether if you prefer.

How long will this salad last in the fridge?

For the best quality, consume the salad within 1-2 days. The avocado may begin to soften and brown after a longer period.

Conclusion

This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is a flavorful and nutrient-packed dish that’s quick to prepare, versatile, and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner, it provides a perfect combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste and dietary needs. Make it your go-to recipe for a healthy, delicious meal!

Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe

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This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prep. A nutritious, creamy, and filling dish that is ideal for lunch or dinner.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Lunch, Main Course, Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Cook chicken if raw, then dice it.
Mash avocados to desired consistency.
Combine avocado, chicken, veggies, and cilantro.
Season with lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add Greek yogurt for extra creaminess if desired.
Mix gently and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes.

Notes

To avoid browning, store in an airtight container with plastic wrap directly on the salad surface.
This recipe can be customized by adding feta, jalapeños, or even fruits.