Description
A creamy and healthy twist on classic chicken salad, this Avocado Chicken Salad swaps mayo for ripe avocado, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked, shredded or diced chicken (rotisserie or grilled)
- 1 large ripe avocado, mashed
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup celery, finely diced
- ¼ cup cilantro or parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds or pecans, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients – Shred or dice the cooked chicken, mash the avocado, and chop the vegetables.
- Mix the Base – In a large mixing bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice until smooth. If using Greek yogurt, mix it in at this stage.
- Combine Everything – Add the shredded chicken, red onion, celery, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
- Add Optional Ingredients – Gently fold in cherry tomatoes and chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
- Serve – Enjoy immediately or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor. Serve in sandwiches, wraps, on toast, or with crackers.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prevent Browning: Press plastic wrap directly onto the salad’s surface to slow oxidation.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to avocado’s texture changes.
- Serving Suggestions: Great in sandwiches, wraps, over greens, or as a dip.
- Variations:
- Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Mix in crumbled feta or shredded cheddar for a cheesy version.
- Swap bread for lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Include diced apples or grapes for sweetness.
- Use sunflower seeds or pecans for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: salad , lunch
- Method: no cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: avocado chicken salad, healthy chicken salad, no mayo chicken salad, keto chicken salad, easy chicken salad