This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is a creamy, protein-packed dish that brings together the richness of ripe avocado with the lean goodness of chicken and the fresh crunch of veggies. Whether served in lettuce cups, on whole-grain toast, or enjoyed on its own, this salad is a flavorful and nutritious option that fits perfectly into any healthy eating plan.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is everything you want in a salad—fresh, filling, and fast to prepare. It skips the mayo and uses avocado as the creamy base, making it lighter and full of heart-healthy fats. The combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and zesty lime juice ensures every bite is both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or even a high-protein snack, and can be made ahead for meal prep.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ripe avocados
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Cooked chicken (grilled, roasted, or rotisserie), shredded or diced
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Diced celery
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Diced red onion
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Diced bell peppers (any color)
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Fresh cilantro, chopped
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Lime juice
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Garlic powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
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Prepare the Ingredients
Dice the avocados and place them in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork to lightly mash them, leaving some chunks for texture. -
Add the Chicken
Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken to the bowl with the avocado. -
Incorporate the Veggies
Mix in diced celery, red onion, and bell peppers for crunch and color. -
Season the Salad
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, chopped cilantro, and a generous squeeze of lime juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. -
Mix and Serve
Gently mix all ingredients until evenly combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving for a more chilled salad.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 0 minutes (if chicken is pre-cooked)
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Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for heat.
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Creamier Texture: Add a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
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Low-Carb Option: Serve in lettuce cups or over a bed of greens.
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Herb Swaps: Use parsley or basil instead of cilantro if preferred.
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Different Proteins: Try it with turkey, tuna, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Storage/reheating
This salad is best eaten fresh due to the avocado’s tendency to brown. If storing, place in an airtight container and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to reduce oxidation. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. This dish is not suitable for reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for best freshness, prepare the components ahead and combine them just before serving.
What’s the best kind of chicken to use?
Grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken all work well. Just make sure it’s cooked through and juicy.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Add lime juice and cover tightly with plastic wrap directly touching the surface of the salad.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it perfect for a keto diet.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch, though freshly cooked chicken will provide better texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for lime juice?
Lemon juice works as a great alternative for a slightly different citrus flavor.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this version is dairy-free. Just ensure any additional ingredients you add are dairy-free as well.
Can I add fruit to this salad?
Yes, chopped apples or grapes add a touch of sweetness and pair well with chicken and avocado.
What’s a good side dish to serve with this salad?
Pair with whole grain crackers, a light soup, or a green side salad for a complete meal.
How can I make it more filling?
Add quinoa, beans, or serve it with whole grain bread to increase satiety.
Conclusion
Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is a fresh, protein-rich meal that combines the creamy richness of avocado with the crunch of vegetables and the hearty satisfaction of chicken. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious yet flavorful dish. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this salad is sure to become a staple in your healthy recipe collection.
Print
Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, Lunch
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American, Healthy
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is creamy, protein-packed, and full of fresh flavor with juicy chicken, ripe avocado, crisp veggies, and zesty lime. It’s perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a light, satisfying dinner—no mayo needed!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 2 cups cooked chicken (grilled, roasted, or rotisserie), chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, celery, red onion, and bell pepper.
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Add diced avocado. Gently fold everything together to keep some avocado chunks.
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Add cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
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Serve immediately or chill for 15–30 minutes before serving.
Notes
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Use fresh, ripe avocados for the best creamy texture and flavor.
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Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster—just shred and toss.
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Customize with extras like diced cucumber, shredded carrots, or a hard-boiled egg for more protein.
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Add crunch by serving with lettuce wraps, over greens, or with low-carb crackers.
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Meal prep tip: Store without avocado and mix it in just before serving to keep it fresh.
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Make it dairy-free: Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free—perfect for most diets!
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