Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe: Creamy, Fresh, and Nutritious
When it comes to healthy meals that don’t skimp on flavor, an Avocado Chicken Salad is hard to beat. The combination of tender chicken, creamy avocado, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing creates a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Unlike traditional chicken salads loaded with heavy mayonnaise, this version highlights avocado as the star ingredient, offering a smooth, buttery texture and a boost of healthy fats.
This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it on its own as a light meal, tuck it into a sandwich or wrap, or serve it on top of crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dish for meal prepping since the flavors meld beautifully over time. Whether you’re planning a quick weekday lunch or a simple dish to share at a gathering, avocado chicken salad is a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent yet nourishing.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need with approximate calorie counts:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed) | 2 cups | 500 kcal |
| Avocado (ripe, diced) | 2 medium | 480 kcal |
| Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened) | ½ cup | 60 kcal |
| Red onion (finely chopped) | ¼ cup | 15 kcal |
| Celery (diced) | ½ cup | 8 kcal |
| Fresh cilantro (chopped) | 2 tbsp | 2 kcal |
| Lime juice (freshly squeezed) | 2 tbsp | 8 kcal |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the chicken – Cook chicken breast (grilled, poached, or baked) until done and let it cool. Shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice the avocado – Cut avocados in half, remove the pit, and dice the flesh into small cubes.
- Mix the base – In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy.
- Add the mix-ins – Toss in the chicken, avocado, onion, celery, and cilantro. Gently fold to avoid mashing the avocado completely.
- Taste and adjust – Add more lime juice, salt, or pepper as needed.
- Chill and serve – Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Protein swaps: Use leftover rotisserie chicken, canned chicken, or even turkey.
- Dressing variations: Replace Greek yogurt with light mayo or mash an extra avocado for a dairy-free version.
- Add crunch: Toss in diced cucumbers, radishes, or toasted almonds.
- Spice it up: Mix in a little jalapeño, hot sauce, or smoked paprika for heat.
- Make it heartier: Add hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas, or a sprinkle of feta cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 268 kcal |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Low-carb option: Serve scooped into lettuce wraps or hollowed-out bell peppers.
- Classic style: Spread between slices of whole-grain bread for a hearty sandwich.
- Meal-prep bowls: Pair with quinoa, roasted veggies, or brown rice for a balanced lunch.
- Party-ready bites: Serve in mini lettuce cups or on whole-grain crackers for appetizers.
- Fresh boost: Add extra lime juice and avocado slices on top before serving.
Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe: Creamy, Fresh, and Nutritious
4
servings15
minutes15
minutes268
kcalIngredients
2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
2 medium ripe avocados (diced)
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
½ cup celery (diced)
2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Cook chicken breast until done, let it cool, then shred or dice into small pieces.
- Cut avocados into cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
- Add chicken, avocado, onion, celery, and cilantro. Gently fold ingredients together.
- Adjust seasoning as needed. Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Chicken options: Use grilled, baked, poached, or rotisserie chicken—whatever you have on hand. Canned chicken also works in a pinch.
Avocado tip: Choose ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushy texture. If you prefer creamier salad, mash one avocado and dice the other.
FAQs
1. How long does avocado chicken salad last in the fridge?
Avocado chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, squeeze extra lime juice over the salad before storing.
2. Can I make this recipe without Greek yogurt?
Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt with light mayonnaise, sour cream, or mashed avocado for a creamy texture.
3. What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Cooked chicken breast is the most common, but rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or even canned chicken can be used for convenience.
4. How can I keep the avocado from turning brown?
Adding lime or lemon juice helps slow oxidation. Storing the salad with plastic wrap pressed tightly on top also helps keep it fresh.
5. Is avocado chicken salad good for meal prep?
Yes, but since avocado browns quickly, it’s best to prepare the salad fresh or mix everything except avocado ahead of time. Add diced avocado just before serving.
6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply replace Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt, mashed avocado, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Conclusion
The Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe is a true example of how healthy eating can be both satisfying and flavorful. With creamy avocado, lean chicken, and crisp vegetables, this salad strikes the perfect balance of textures and nutrients. It’s easy to make, customizable to your taste, and versatile enough to enjoy in countless ways. Whether you’re prepping lunches for the week or putting together a quick meal, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
