There’s something incredibly satisfying about a fresh, creamy, and protein-packed salad that comes together in just minutes. This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is the perfect balance of nourishing ingredients, rich flavors, and a satisfying crunch. Unlike traditional chicken salads that rely on mayonnaise for creaminess, this version uses ripe avocados, which not only add a luscious texture but also bring in plenty of healthy fats and nutrients.
This salad is a go-to for busy days, whether you need a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a meal-prep-friendly dish. It’s refreshing in the summer, comforting in the cooler months, and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender chicken, creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and zesty seasonings makes every bite exciting and delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can enjoy it in a sandwich, on top of greens, or simply on its own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No mayo needed! The avocado provides all the creaminess without extra processed ingredients.
- Packed with protein and healthy fats, keeping you full and energized.
- Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have.
- Customizable—add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
- Perfect for meal prep, staying fresh and delicious for days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 large ripe avocado, mashed
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
How to Make Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by cooking and shredding your chicken if you haven’t already. You can use leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even poached chicken for this recipe. Shredded chicken works best, but diced chicken also does the trick.
Mash the avocado in a large bowl using a fork. If you prefer a smoother texture, mash it thoroughly. For a chunkier consistency, leave some avocado pieces intact.
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
Add the shredded chicken, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs to the bowl with the mashed avocado. Stir everything gently to combine.
Step 3: Season and Add Creaminess
Drizzle in the fresh lime juice, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. If you want an extra creamy texture, mix in a bit of Greek yogurt. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy avocado mixture.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give the salad a quick taste test and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more lime juice for brightness, extra salt for flavor, or a little more garlic powder if you love a garlicky kick.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
This salad can be enjoyed immediately, but letting it sit for 10–15 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it in lettuce wraps, on whole-grain toast, stuffed in a pita, or just eat it straight from the bowl!
Helpful Tips
- Use ripe avocados: They should be soft but not overly mushy for the best creamy consistency.
- Shred the chicken finely: This helps it blend well with the avocado and makes every bite flavorful.
- Add crunch: If you love a little crunch, toss in some chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) or sunflower seeds.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Keep it fresh: Since avocado tends to brown over time, squeeze extra lime juice on top if you’re storing leftovers.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (if using pre-cooked chicken)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb
Notes
- If you’re making this salad ahead of time, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before refrigerating to prevent browning.
- You can swap Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer a tangier flavor.
- For extra protein, add a chopped hard-boiled egg to the mix.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fiber: ~5g
- Fat: ~12g
- Sugar: ~2g
Note: These are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does avocado chicken salad last?
It’s best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The lime juice helps prevent the avocado from browning too quickly.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes! While fresh or rotisserie chicken has the best texture and flavor, canned chicken works in a pinch. Just drain and shred it well before mixing.
What can I serve with this salad?
You can serve it on whole wheat toast, in a wrap, over a bed of greens, or even with whole-grain crackers for dipping.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! This salad is naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it a great option for a keto diet.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prevent Browning: If storing, press plastic wrap against the surface of the salad to minimize oxidation.
- Do Not Freeze: Avocado does not freeze well in this form, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
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Conclusion
This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is proof that nutritious meals don’t have to be boring or complicated. With its creamy texture, fresh ingredients, and zesty flavors, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving while keeping things light and wholesome. Whether you’re meal prepping, looking for a quick lunch, or just craving something fresh, this salad is a must-try.
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Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad
Description
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a fresh, creamy, and protein-packed salad that comes together in just minutes. This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is the perfect balance of nourishing ingredients, rich flavors, and a satisfying crunch. Unlike traditional chicken salads that rely on mayonnaise for creaminess, this version uses ripe avocados, which not only add a luscious texture but also bring in plenty of healthy fats and nutrients.
This salad is a go-to for busy days, whether you need a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a meal-prep-friendly dish. It’s refreshing in the summer, comforting in the cooler months, and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender chicken, creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and zesty seasonings makes every bite exciting and delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can enjoy it in a sandwich, on top of greens, or simply on its own.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 large ripe avocado, mashed
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
Instructions
Start by cooking and shredding your chicken if you haven’t already. You can use leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even poached chicken for this recipe. Shredded chicken works best, but diced chicken also does the trick.
Mash the avocado in a large bowl using a fork. If you prefer a smoother texture, mash it thoroughly. For a chunkier consistency, leave some avocado pieces intact.
Add the shredded chicken, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs to the bowl with the mashed avocado. Stir everything gently to combine.
Drizzle in the fresh lime juice, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. If you want an extra creamy texture, mix in a bit of Greek yogurt. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy avocado mixture.
Give the salad a quick taste test and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more lime juice for brightness, extra salt for flavor, or a little more garlic powder if you love a garlicky kick.
This salad can be enjoyed immediately, but letting it sit for 10–15 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it in lettuce wraps, on whole-grain toast, stuffed in a pita, or just eat it straight from the bowl!
Notes
- If you’re making this salad ahead of time, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before refrigerating to prevent browning.
- You can swap Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer a tangier flavor.
- For extra protein, add a chopped hard-boiled egg to the mix.