Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe

If you’re craving a light, refreshing, and nutrient-rich meal, this Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is exactly what you need. Creamy avocado combines with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and zesty lime juice to create a salad that’s not only satisfying but also packed with protein and healthy fats. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this versatile dish is quick to make, easily customizable, and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in Protein: Tender chicken breast provides lean protein to fuel your day.
• Packed with Healthy Fats: Avocado supplies heart-healthy monounsaturated fats for sustained energy.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weekdays.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Makes 4 servings that keep well in the fridge for several days.
• Fresh & Flavorful: Lime juice, cilantro, and crisp vegetables add vibrant flavor.
• Customizable: Add Greek yogurt for extra creaminess, swap veggies, or serve in wraps or bowls.

Ingredients Breakdown

Salad Base:

• 2 large ripe avocados
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (about 2 medium breasts)

Vegetables & Flavor Enhancers:

• ½ to 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 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

Seasonings:

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional for Extra Creaminess:

• ¼ cup Greek yogurt

Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~350 kcal

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Large mixing bowl
• Fork or potato masher for avocado
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Spatula for folding ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• If using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper.
• Grill or bake until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
• Let cool, then dice into small, bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado

• Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a large bowl.
• Mash with a fork to your preferred consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• Add the diced chicken, halved cherry or grape tomatoes, red onion, celery, and red bell pepper to the mashed avocado.
• Sprinkle in chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
• If desired, add Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Step 4: Mix and Taste

• Gently fold all ingredients together until evenly combined.
• Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lime juice, salt, or pepper to suit your preference.

Step 5: Serve or Chill

• Serve immediately for a fresh, vibrant salad.
• Optionally, chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• Meal Prep Tip: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Wrap Option: Serve the salad in whole-grain tortillas for a portable lunch.
• Add Crunch: Toasted nuts or seeds, such as almonds or pumpkin seeds, add texture.
• Extra Flavor: A dash of smoked paprika or cumin can add a subtle smoky depth.
• Vegan Variation: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tempeh and Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This salad is creamy from the avocado and Greek yogurt, slightly tangy from lime juice, and fresh from the crisp vegetables. It pairs perfectly with:

• Whole-grain crackers or pita bread
• Leafy greens for a more substantial salad bowl
• Optional quinoa or brown rice for added carbs and fiber

Nutritional Overview

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	28 g
Fat	20 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Carbohydrates	14 g
Fiber	7 g
Sugar	5 g

Dietary Notes: Gluten-free, low-carb option, high-protein, dairy-free if Greek yogurt is omitted, Whole30-compliant if yogurt is omitted.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Dice the chicken in advance and store in the fridge.
• Mash avocados just before serving to prevent browning.
• Mix all ingredients except avocado for a “build-your-own” salad option.
• Use airtight containers to maintain freshness and texture.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is an easy shortcut.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
Use lime juice and store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge.

Can I freeze this salad?
It’s not recommended, as avocado may become mushy after thawing.

Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, it is low in carbs and high in healthy fats, suitable for a keto diet.

Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Cucumber, radishes, or shredded carrots are excellent additions.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve on a bed of lettuce for a light, refreshing meal.
• Use as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
• Pair with whole-grain crackers or rice cakes for added texture.

Ingredient Spotlight

Avocado: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and vitamins E and K. Select ripe, slightly soft avocados for the best texture. Store uncut avocados at room temperature until ripe, then refrigerate.

Chicken Breast: A lean, protein-rich ingredient essential for satiety and muscle repair. Opt for organic or free-range chicken for better flavor and nutritional value.

Lime Juice: Adds brightness, prevents avocado browning, and enhances overall flavor without adding calories.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Mash avocado just before mixing to maintain its vibrant green color.
• Gently fold ingredients to prevent mashing the vegetables.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end for the best flavor balance.
• If adding Greek yogurt, use full-fat or low-fat depending on desired creaminess and caloric intake.

Storage & Refrigeration

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Best consumed within the first 24 hours for optimal avocado texture.
• Do not freeze, as avocado becomes watery and changes texture.

Expanded Conclusion

This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors. It’s protein-packed, nutritious, and versatile enough to enjoy as a salad, wrap, or bowl. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s ideal for meal prep, a light lunch, or a refreshing dinner. The combination of avocado, chicken, and crisp vegetables makes each bite satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply love fresh, delicious meals, this avocado chicken salad is a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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