Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this avocado chicken salad recipe! It’s one of my absolute favorites for a fresh, healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor. I first whipped this up on a sunny afternoon when I needed something light yet satisfying. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, and it’s just so vibrant with those little bursts of cherry tomatoes! Trust me, this salad is not only easy to throw together, but it’s also packed with nutrients that make you feel great. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or a light dinner, it’s a dish that always brings a smile to my face—and I know it will for you too!
Ingredients for Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand for a quick prep.
- 1 ripe avocado, diced: Make sure it’s perfectly ripe for that creamy texture that binds everything together.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These add a pop of color and a burst of sweetness—so refreshing!
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Adds a nice crunch and a bit of zing; just be careful not to overpower the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped: This herb brings a fresh, vibrant flavor that elevates the salad; you can adjust the amount to your taste!
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: The acidity brightens everything up; fresh lime juice is best for that zesty kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: A sprinkle of each enhances all those beautiful flavors, so don’t skip this step!
How to Prepare the Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
- Start by gathering all your ingredients—this makes the process so much smoother! In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and diced avocado. Use a fork to gently mash the avocado just a bit; this will help it blend with the chicken and create that creamy texture.
- Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Oh, the colors are just gorgeous at this point!
- Now, drizzle the lime juice over the mixture. This adds a bright flavor that’s simply irresistible. Season with salt and pepper to your liking—don’t be shy!
- Gently toss everything together with a spatula or spoon until well combined, but be careful not to over-mix; you want to keep that avocado nice and chunky!
- If you have time, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully. But if you’re hungry, feel free to dig in right away!
Why You’ll Love This Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
- Quick to prepare: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, perfect for those busy days when you need something delicious fast!
- Healthy and nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the avocado, it’s a guilt-free meal option that keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
- Flavor explosion: The combination of creamy avocado, zesty lime, and fresh veggies creates a delightful mix of flavors that’s simply irresistible.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, as a filling in a wrap, or over a bed of greens. You can also mix in your favorite veggies to customize it just the way you like!
- Great for meal prep: This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for lunches throughout the week.
Tips for Success with Your Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
To get the most out of your avocado chicken salad, freshness is key! Always use ripe avocados; they should give slightly when you gently squeeze them. If you’re making this salad ahead of time, squeeze a bit more lime juice over the avocado to prevent browning. For serving, I love to dish it up on a bed of crisp lettuce or in a whole-grain wrap for a satisfying meal on the go.
Feeling adventurous? Mix in some diced cucumber for extra crunch or bell peppers for a sweet twist. You can also swap out cilantro for parsley if that’s more your style. And remember, this salad is perfect for meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information for Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
This avocado chicken salad recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, but they give you a great idea of how healthy and satisfying this salad is! It’s a wonderful option for anyone looking to enjoy a meal that’s both tasty and nourishing.
FAQ about Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Canned chicken is a great time-saver. Just drain it well and shred it for a quick and easy meal.
How long will the avocado chicken salad last in the fridge? This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Just remember that the avocado may brown a bit, so add extra lime juice to help keep it vibrant!
Can I make the salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and chop the veggies ahead of time. Just wait to add the avocado and lime juice until you’re ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for cilantro? If cilantro isn’t your thing, fresh parsley works wonderfully, or you could even try a bit of dill for a unique twist!
Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, this avocado chicken salad recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your avocado chicken salad is super simple! Just place any leftovers in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, but keep in mind that the avocado may brown a bit over time. A splash of lime juice before sealing it up can help keep that vibrant green color.
As for reheating, this salad is best enjoyed cold, so there’s really no need to reheat it! If you do happen to have it leftover after a couple of days, just give it a good stir before serving. If it looks a bit sad, you can add a touch more lime juice and maybe a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to perk it right back up!
Serving Suggestions for Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
When it comes to serving this avocado chicken salad, the possibilities are endless! I love to serve it on a bed of crisp romaine or mixed greens for a light and refreshing meal. You can also scoop it into whole-grain wraps or tortillas for a satisfying lunch on the go. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving it as a filling for lettuce cups—it’s such a fun and healthy finger food!
Feeling a bit more indulgent? Try it with toasted whole grain bread for a delicious sandwich, or even atop a crunchy croissant for a brunch treat. For added flair, garnish with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little kick. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this salad is bound to impress!
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Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe: 5 Fresh Flavor Boosts
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A fresh and healthy avocado chicken salad recipe packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and diced avocado.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
- Drizzle with lime juice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for quicker preparation.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumber or bell peppers.
- Can be served on lettuce or as a sandwich filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: avocado chicken salad recipe