A Fresh, Flavor-Packed Salad You’ll Want on Repeat
This Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad is a must-try if you’re searching for a quick, easy-to-make, healthful lunch! This recipe is not only overflowing with taste but also loaded with nourishment when you combine the creamy texture of ripe avocados with juicy shredded chicken, crisp veggies, and a light citrus vinaigrette.
Low in carbohydrates and heavy in protein and good fats, perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a quick dinner. Whether your diet is ketogenic or just clean, this salad has good taste and encouraging components in every mouthful.
Why You’ll Love This Avocado Chicken Salad
- Quick and Easy – Comes together in under 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with lean protein, fiber, and good fats.
- Versatile – Great as a salad, in lettuce wraps, or in a sandwich.
- Meal-Prep Friendly – Make ahead and enjoy for days!
- Naturally Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free – Great for most dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this delicious avocado chicken salad calls for fresh, complete foods that mix together naturally. Start with two cups of cooked chicken—baked breast meat or shredded rotisserie.
Next toss two ripe avocados, chopped for smoothness. Halved 1/2 cup chopped red onion, 1/2 cup chopped celery, and 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes create a crunchy and bright contrast.
Squeeze in one lime’s juice and toss one-fourth cup chopped cilantro to accentuate the taste. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt and pepper to taste; if you enjoy some spice, sprinkle a bit of red pepper flakes. For variation, toss a hard-boiled egg or cucumbers.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 servings)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 5g
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Sugar: 2g
This salad is a powerhouse of protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying, balanced meal with low net carbs.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Avocado chicken salad is perfect for meal prepping, but there are a few things to keep in mind to maintain its freshness. If you’re preparing it in advance, consider keeping the avocado separate until you’re ready to eat.
This helps prevent browning and keeps the salad looking fresh. Store the rest of the salad mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to prep even further ahead, shred the chicken, chop the veggies, and store them separately—assemble right before serving. You can also add a splash of lime or lemon juice to the avocado to slow oxidation.
This salad does not freeze well due to the texture changes in avocado, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. For busy weeks, make a double batch of the base ingredients and portion it out with freshly diced avocado each day for optimal taste and texture.
Top Tips for a Better Avocado Chicken Salad
Use High-Quality Chicken: The flavor of your chicken makes a big difference. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but if you’re cooking your own, season it well with garlic powder, salt, and pepper before baking or poaching. Tender, juicy chicken ensures each bite is satisfying.
Don’t Over-Mix the Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess but can quickly turn mushy if over-mixed. Gently fold the diced avocado into the salad to preserve chunks for a better texture contrast with the chicken and crunchy vegetables.
Add Fresh Herbs for a Flavor Boost: Cilantro adds a zesty finish, but you can also try dill or parsley for a different herbaceous touch. Fresh herbs elevate the salad from basic to gourmet without adding calories. Don’t skip the lime juice—it’s essential for freshness and balance.
Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad
Course: Recipes4
servings15
minutes5
minutes20
minutesIngredients
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
2 ripe avocados, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, red onion, celery, and cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice, then sprinkle in cilantro, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice, then sprinkle in cilantro, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes
- Gently mix everything until evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Notes
- This vibrant Avocado Chicken Salad is as nourishing as it is delicious—perfect for busy weekdays, meal prep, or a light, refreshing lunch. Enjoy every bite! 🥑🍗