If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, this Avocado Chicken Salad is just the ticket! Bursting with creamy avocado, tender chicken, and zesty lime dressing, it’s a meal that satisfies without the guilt. Whether you’re meal-prepping, hosting a lunch, or craving something light yet filling, this salad will quickly become your go-to recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Avocado Chicken Salad
This recipe ticks all the boxes for a perfect meal:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal effort.
- Healthy: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies.
- Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients to make it your own.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish, a side, or even a sandwich filling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover grilled chicken for extra flavor.
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and diced – The star of the dish, adding creamy texture and healthy fats.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped – Adds a bit of crunch and tang.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – For a burst of sweetness and color.
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped – Brings fresh, herbaceous notes.
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 1 lime – Brightens the flavors and keeps the avocados fresh.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds a smooth richness to the dressing.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances all the ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Begin by shredding the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Dice the avocados, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion and fresh cilantro.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. This simple dressing adds a tangy and refreshing flavor to the salad.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Pour the dressing over the ingredients.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Gently toss everything together, being careful not to mash the avocados. Once the salad is evenly coated with the dressing, transfer it to a serving bowl.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy
For an extra pop of flavor, garnish the salad with additional cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for a cool, refreshing meal.
Tips for the Perfect Avocado Chicken Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ripe avocados and freshly squeezed lime juice make all the difference.
- Shredded Chicken Hack: Rotisserie chicken or meal-prepped chicken breast works great.
- Customize It: Add cucumbers, bell peppers, or even a boiled egg for added texture and nutrition.
- Make It Keto-Friendly: Skip the tomatoes and enjoy the salad as a low-carb meal.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that avocados may brown slightly.
Nutrition Information
Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 22g
- Fats: 18g
- Carbs: 9g
Serving Suggestions
This Avocado Chicken Salad pairs beautifully with:
- Lettuce Wraps: Scoop the salad into romaine lettuce leaves for a handheld option.
- Toast: Spread it over whole-grain toast for a quick and hearty snack.
- Grain Bowls: Serve over quinoa or brown rice for a more filling meal.
Conclusion
This Avocado Chicken Salad is not just a meal—it’s a flavor-packed celebration of wholesome, fresh ingredients. With its creamy avocado, juicy chicken, and vibrant lime dressing, it’s perfect for everything from a light lunch to a family gathering.
It’s quick, healthy, and irresistibly delicious—what’s not to love? Try it today and discover why this salad is a crowd-pleaser!
Share the Love!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Let us know your favorite variations in the comments below!