Delicious avocado chicken salad with fresh ingredients in a bowl

Avocado Chicken Salad: A Perfect Wholesome Dish

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious meal that packs a flavorful punch, then let me introduce you to Avocado Chicken Salad.

This vibrant dish is not only creamy and satisfying but also healthy, making it an ideal choice for lunch or a light dinner.

With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a delightful salad that brings together the rich taste of avocado with tender chicken. It’s versatile enough to serve on its own, in a sandwich, or even on crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite!

a bowl of salad with chicken and avocado

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 280
Protein: 22 grams
Carbohydrates: 9 grams
Fat: 17 grams
Fiber: 5 grams
Sugar: 1 gram
Sodium: 210 mg

Why I Love This Avocado Chicken Salad

I absolutely adore this Avocado Chicken Salad because it feels like a little hug in a bowl. The creaminess of the avocado combined with the protein-rich chicken creates such a satisfying texture.

Plus, it’s so quick to make! This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you want something fresh without spending hours in the kitchen.

It’s great for meal prep too; just make a big batch and enjoy it all week long. Every bite is a celebration of flavors, and the lime juice gives it that perfect zing!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 ripe avocado, mashed
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/4 cup celery, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped cilantro or parsley

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 ripe avocado, mashed
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/4 cup celery, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped cilantro or parsley

How to Make Avocado Chicken Salad

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mashed avocado, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), and lime juice. Mix well until everything is creamy and well blended.

Step 2: Add Fresh Veggies

Add the diced red onion and celery, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly combined, ensuring the fresh crunch of the celery stays intact.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

Optionally, sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top before serving. This adds a lovely burst of color and flavor. Serve chilled or at room temperature, either on its own or inside a sandwich.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, consider adding some diced apples or grapes to the salad. It’s a fun twist!
If you want to jazz it up, try mixing in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
This Avocado Chicken Salad is gluten-free as is, so feel free to serve it on your favorite gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps!
To store, serve in a bowl with a tight lid to keep it fresh, which also helps maintain the vibrant green color of the avocado.

Delicious Variations

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad – A hearty salad with chickpeas, cucumbers, feta, and olives.
Tuna Salad with Avocado – A creamy twist on the classic with shredded tuna and avocado.
Chicken Caesar Salad – A classic salad that combines romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, and creamy Caesar dressing.
Quinoa Salad with Roasted Veggies – A healthy bowl filled with protein-rich quinoa and your favorite roasted vegetables.

Serving Suggestions for Avocado Chicken Salad

This Avocado Chicken Salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.

You can enjoy it on its own, piled on toasted bread for a delightful sandwich, or nestled in lettuce wraps for a light, refreshing meal.

Pair it with a crisp white wine or an iced tea for that perfect touch. If you’re looking for a complementary dish, opt for a light tomato basil soup—it’s a cozy combo that balances the creamy texture of the salad beautifully.

Storage and Leftovers

To store your Avocado Chicken Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, you might want to add the avocado in just before serving to keep that vibrant green color and creamy texture.

Avoid freezing this salad, as the avocado can change texture when thawed.

Helpful Questions

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe and adds great flavor.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
You can use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt if you prefer a richer taste, or even use silken tofu for a dairy-free option.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give your salad a bit of heat!
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Just be sure to add the avocado just before serving to maintain freshness.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Avocado Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

This Avocado Chicken Salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of delicious flavors and textures, wholesome enough to nourish you yet simple enough to prepare any day of the week. Give it a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed!