Name: Avocado Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced; 2 ripe avocados, peeled and diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese for added flavor

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Avocado Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also wholesome and incredibly simple to prepare. The avocado provides a naturally creamy texture without the need for mayo, making it a lighter and more nutritious option. It’s versatile enough to serve in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or on its own. Plus, it’s full of fresh ingredients and customizable to suit your taste preferences, making it a go-to recipe for healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
2 ripe avocados, peeled and diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, for added flavor (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, mash one of the avocados with the lime juice until mostly smooth.
Add the diced chicken, red onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and the second diced avocado.
Gently stir everything together, being careful not to mash the avocado pieces too much.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
(Optional) Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Serve immediately as a sandwich filling, in lettuce wraps, or on its own.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add extra greens: Toss in spinach, arugula, or mixed greens for a more salad-like version.
Make it spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Switch the herbs: Use basil or dill instead of cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Add more veggies: Bell peppers, corn, or shredded carrots make great additions for extra crunch and color.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To help prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly against the surface of the salad.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well before mixing.

2. How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss the avocado in lime juice and store the salad tightly covered with plastic wrap to minimize browning.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours ahead. Just be aware the avocado might brown slightly.

4. Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, this Avocado Chicken Salad is low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it keto-friendly.

5. Can I add a dressing to this salad?

The mashed avocado acts as a creamy dressing, but you can add a little more lime juice or olive oil if you like it wetter.

6. What’s the best chicken to use?

Grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken all work great for this salad.

7. Can I freeze Avocado Chicken Salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad because avocado does not thaw well and can become mushy.

8. Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the optional feta cheese to keep the salad dairy-free.

9. How can I serve this salad differently?

Serve it in a wrap, stuffed into an avocado half, or with tortilla chips for a fun twist.

10. Can I use lemon juice instead of lime juice?

Yes, lemon juice works just as well to keep the avocado fresh and add a nice citrus flavor.

Conclusion

Avocado Chicken Salad is a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its creamy avocado base, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken, this salad offers the perfect balance of flavors and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, an easy dinner, or a wholesome meal prep option, this recipe will easily become one of your favorites!

Avocado Chicken Salad

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Avocado Chicken Salad is a creamy, nutritious twist on classic chicken salad, made without mayo! Featuring ripe avocado, tender chicken, and fresh veggies, it’s a quick, protein-packed meal perfect for healthy lunches, meal prep, or light dinners, ready in just 15 minutes.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15min
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4servings
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook, Tossed
Cuisine: American

Instructions

In a large bowl, mash one of the avocados with lime juice until mostly smooth.
Add the diced chicken, red onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and the second diced avocado.
Gently stir to combine, being careful not to over-mash the avocado pieces.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
(Optional) Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Serve immediately in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or enjoy on its own.

Notes

Add Extra Greens: Toss in spinach, arugula, or mixed greens for a more salad-like dish.
Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce.
Switch the Herbs: Try basil or dill instead of cilantro.
More Veggies: Add bell peppers, corn, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.