Let me tell you, this high protein avocado chicken salad is a game-changer! It’s not just a salad; it’s a quick, nutritious meal that fills you up without weighing you down. I love how the creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, making every bite a delightful experience. And the best part? You can whip this up in just 15 minutes! Whether I’m prepping for a busy week or looking for a healthy snack to satisfy my cravings, this salad is always a winner. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
These ingredients come together to create a salad that’s not only packed with protein but also bursting with flavor. Make sure your avocado is perfectly ripe for that creamy texture, and don’t skimp on the fresh cilantro—it really brightens up the whole dish!
How to Prepare High Protein Avocado Chicken Salad
Making this high protein avocado chicken salad is as easy as pie—and just as delicious! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You’ll combine fresh ingredients to create something that’s not only healthy but also satisfying. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. This is where all the magic happens!
- Next, add the shredded chicken to the bowl. If you’re using leftover chicken, make sure it’s cooled down a bit.
- Dice your ripe avocado and gently fold it into the chicken. Be careful not to mash it too much; we want those lovely chunks!
- Now, scoop in the Greek yogurt. This adds creaminess without all the extra calories from mayonnaise.
- Chop your red onion and celery, then toss them in. The crunch from the celery adds a nice texture!
- Drizzle in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. This brightens everything up!
- Lastly, mix everything together gently until all the ingredients are well combined. Don’t overmix; we want to keep that avocado intact!
- Garnish with fresh cilantro right before serving for that burst of freshness. Enjoy!
It really is that simple! With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious salad ready to go. Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to staying healthy, this high protein avocado chicken salad has got you covered! Each serving (about 1 cup) is packed with goodness and comes in at roughly 350 calories. You’ll get 30 grams of protein to keep you full and satisfied, along with 20 grams of healthy fats from that creamy avocado. It’s also got 10 grams of carbohydrates and 5 grams of fiber, which helps with digestion. Just a heads up, these values are estimates, but they give a great idea of the nutritious benefits you’re getting with each bite. Enjoy guilt-free goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a fantastic source of protein, with 30 grams per serving to keep you energized.
- Whips up in just 15 minutes—perfect for those busy days!
- The creamy avocado adds healthy fats that make it super satisfying.
- It’s versatile! Enjoy it on its own, in a wrap, or over a bed of greens.
- Every bite is bursting with flavor from the fresh ingredients and zesty lemon juice.
- Great for meal prepping, so you can have a healthy lunch ready to go!
This salad truly combines convenience and nutrition, making it a must-try in your kitchen!
Tips for Success
To make the most out of your high protein avocado chicken salad, here are a few tried-and-true tips! First, always use a ripe avocado for that creamy texture—give it a gentle squeeze; it should yield slightly. If you’re using leftover chicken, shred it while it’s still warm for easier handling. Also, don’t skip the salt and pepper; it really enhances all the flavors! For an extra zing, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little kick. And remember, serve it fresh for the best taste, but it can be stored in the fridge for a day or two if you have leftovers!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many delicious ways to switch up this high protein avocado chicken salad! For a Mediterranean twist, try adding some crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives. You can also throw in some diced bell peppers for a pop of color and crunch. Want a little heat? Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder for a spicy kick! Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can bring a whole new flavor profile, too. And if you’re looking to mix up the dressing, a splash of olive oil or a dollop of pesto can add a delightful depth to your salad. The possibilities are endless! Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your high protein 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 about 1-2 days, but trust me, it’s best enjoyed right after making it. The avocado can start to brown, so if you want to keep it vibrant, you can squeeze a bit more lemon juice on top before sealing it up. As for reheating, I recommend enjoying this salad cold, but if you prefer it warm, gently heat the chicken in the microwave before mixing it with the other ingredients. Just be careful not to overheat it, or you might end up with rubbery chicken. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I make this high protein avocado chicken salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll save you time for lunch or dinner. Just remember, the avocado might brown a little, so a squeeze of lemon juice can help with that!
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt or even cottage cheese for a similar creamy texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes! This high protein avocado chicken salad is perfect for meal prepping. Just keep the avocado and dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in any veggies you love. Cucumbers, bell peppers, or even corn would add a nice crunch and flavor. It’s all about making it your own!
How long does it last in the fridge?
It’s best eaten within 1-2 days for the freshest taste. If you notice the avocado browning, just give it a good stir, and it’ll still be tasty!
For more healthy recipes, check out this high protein chicken salad recipe or this healthy cheesecake recipe.
Print
High Protein Avocado Chicken Salad for Ultimate Freshness
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A nutritious and filling salad packed with protein and healthy fats.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced avocado, and Greek yogurt.
- Add red onion, celery, and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix well until combined.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Serve on a bed of greens or in a wrap.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: high protein avocado chicken salad