Avocado Chicken Salad

Are you looking for a lunch that is both nutritious and incredibly satisfying? This Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad is the answer. Say goodbye to boring, dry chicken salads and hello to a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that will keep you energized throughout the afternoon.

This recipe swaps heavy mayonnaise for nutrient-dense avocado and Greek yogurt, creating a creamy texture without the empty calories. It's packed with lean protein, heart-healthy fats, and fresh greens, making it a perfect choice for fitness enthusiasts, busy professionals, and anyone wanting to eat cleaner.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• High Protein: With over 30g of protein per serving, it supports muscle recovery and keeps you full.
• Healthy Fats: Avocados provide monounsaturated fats that are great for heart health.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required (if using pre-cooked chicken).
• Versatile: Great as a sandwich filler, on top of greens, or scooped with cucumber slices.
• Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable for keto and paleo diets.

Ingredients Notes

To make this salad shine, quality ingredients are key:

• Chicken Breast: Use cooked, shredded chicken breast. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver here. Poached chicken keeps it moist and tender.
• Avocados: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure. They act as the creamy base.
• Greek Yogurt: Use plain, non-fat or low-fat Greek yogurt for extra protein and tanginess. It lightens up the dressing.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best! It adds brightness and prevents the avocado from browning.
• Red Onion: Finely diced for a sharp, crunchy contrast. Soak in cold water for 5 minutes if you find raw onion too strong.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley, cilantro, or dill add a burst of freshness. Don't skip these!
• Seasoning: Sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder tie everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you haven't already, shred your cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. You can use two forks to pull the meat apart easily. Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Avocado Dressing

In a separate small bowl, mash the ripe avocado until it's mostly smooth but still has some chunks for texture. Stir in the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the creamy avocado mixture to the bowl with the chicken. Toss in the finely diced red onion and your choice of fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro work beautifully).

Step 4: Toss and Season

Gently toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more lemon juice for zing or a pinch more salt if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately over a bed of mixed greens, inside a whole-grain wrap, or with whole-wheat crackers.

Expert Tips for Success

• Ripeness Matters: Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe. If they are too hard, they won't mash well; if too soft, they might be brown inside.
• Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh because avocado can oxidize (turn brown) over time. If you must store it, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad to minimize air contact and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
• Add Crunch: For extra texture, add chopped celery, cucumber, or toasted walnuts.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Because of the avocado, it's best eaten the same day. However, the lemon juice helps slow down browning, so it can last for lunch the next day if stored properly.

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly? A: Yes! It's low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein, making it excellent for a ketogenic diet.

Q: Can I use mayonnaise instead of yogurt? A: Absolutely. If you prefer a classic taste, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with mayonnaise, or use a 50/50 mix.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 7g
• Fat: 20g
• Sugar: 2g

Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific brands and ingredients used.