If you’ve been searching for a fresh, vibrant, and utterly satisfying meal that comes together in just ten minutes, this Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s a delightful combination of creamy avocado, tender chicken, and crisp, fresh veggies that balances flavors and textures in the most irresistible way. Perfect for a light lunch, a picnic, or even a wholesome snack, this salad offers wholesome nutrition without any fuss. Trust me, once you try this avocado chicken salad recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds every time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect balance in this salad is all about simple, fresh ingredients that work in harmony. Each element brings its own magic, from the creamy avocado that creates a dreamy base to the zesty lime juice that electrifies the flavors. Let’s take a look at the essentials:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped: Provides lean, protein-packed substance and a hearty texture that makes this salad truly satisfying.
- 1 large ripe avocado, diced: Adds velvety creaminess and healthy fats that enrich every bite.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: Brings a subtle tang and smoothness while keeping it lighter than traditional mayo.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Infuses a bright citrus zing that lifts the entire salad.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Gives a mild sharpness and crunch to contrast the creamy elements.
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped: Adds crisp texture and a refreshing, clean flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Imparts a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the whole dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to bring all flavors forward perfectly.
How to Make Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the creamy base
Start by mashing the ripe avocado gently in a large bowl. Add the plain Greek yogurt and fresh lime juice, mixing everything together until mostly smooth with a few small lumps for texture. This creamy base is key as it not only flavors your chicken but also delivers richness without overwhelming heaviness.
Step 2: Add the chicken and crunchy veggies
Next, fold in the shredded or chopped chicken breast along with the finely chopped red onion, celery, and fresh cilantro. The combination of the soft avocado and the crunchy veggies makes every bite interesting and layered with texture.
Step 3: Season to taste
Finally, season your salad with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Take a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you love a bit more zing, a splash more lime juice can work wonders here!
Step 4: Chill or serve immediately
You can enjoy this avocado chicken salad recipe right away, which is fantastic for a quick meal, or refrigerate it for a bit to let the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep in mind that the avocado might darken slightly over time, but rest assured the taste stays amazing.
How to Serve Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe with fresh garnishes like extra cilantro leaves, a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky kick, or even a few halved cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness. These simple touches elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs perfectly with light, fresh sides such as crisp lettuce leaves for wraps, crunchy whole-grain crackers, or a side of sliced cucumber. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes or a quinoa salad to balance the creaminess with wholesome carbs.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to think outside the bowl! Use your avocado chicken salad as a filling for a crunchy wrap, a topping for toasted sourdough bread, or even spoon it into ripe tomato halves for a fun and colorful appetizer. The versatility makes it a total crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover avocado chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days before the avocado begins to brown noticeably, but a quick stir and a drizzle of lime juice can refresh it.
Freezing
Because of the fresh avocado and yogurt, freezing this salad is not recommended. Freeze-thaw cycles can alter the texture and color, so fresh is always best with this recipe.
Reheating
This Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe is designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer, simply remove from the fridge and let it sit out for about 10-15 minutes before serving to take the chill off.
FAQs
Can I substitute mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a richer flavor, mayonnaise or sour cream can be swapped in for Greek yogurt. The salad will be creamier but still delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping lunches or snacks. Just keep in mind the avocado can brown, so store in airtight containers and consume within a day or two for best freshness.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Definitely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient, flavorful shortcut that works great here and adds a bit of seasoning depth to the salad.
How spicy is this salad?
This salad is mild and refreshing by nature. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeño, or hot sauce if you want to spice it up.
What are some good alternatives to cilantro?
If cilantro is not your favorite, fresh parsley or basil are lovely substitutions that still offer fresh herbal notes without the distinct “green” flavor of cilantro.
Final Thoughts
This Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe truly hits that sweet spot between healthy and indulgent, simple and luxurious. It’s one of those dishes that feels special without demanding your time, and it’s versatile enough to suit all kinds of cravings. I can’t recommend it enough—grab those fresh ingredients and get mixing. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and healthy Avocado Chicken Salad made with shredded chicken breast, ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, and fresh lime juice. This no-cook salad is packed with flavor from red onion, celery, and cilantro, perfect for a quick, gluten-free, and low-carb lunch or snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 large ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the avocado mixture: In a large bowl, mash the avocado with the Greek yogurt and lime juice until mostly smooth, creating a creamy base for the salad.
- Combine ingredients: Add the shredded or chopped cooked chicken, finely chopped red onion, celery, and freshly chopped cilantro to the avocado mixture.
- Mix gently: Stir all ingredients gently until well combined, ensuring even distribution of flavors without mashing the chicken too much.
- Season: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed for a balanced flavor.
- Serve or store: Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to use. This salad can be enjoyed on its own or served with lettuce cups, toast, wraps, or crackers.
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream or mayonnaise for the Greek yogurt if desired for a different flavor and texture.
- Serve this salad in lettuce cups, on toast, in a wrap, or with crackers for a light and satisfying lunch or snack.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for best freshness.
