Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe

This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that’s as delicious as it is wholesome. Creamy avocados serve as a nutritious base, replacing traditional mayonnaise, and are complemented by tender chicken breast, crisp vegetables, and zesty lime. It’s a refreshing and satisfying salad that’s perfect for lunch, meal prep, or even a light dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This avocado chicken salad is loaded with flavor, texture, and health benefits. It’s gluten-free, dairy-optional, and can easily be made low-carb or keto-friendly. The creamy avocado not only adds a rich flavor but also provides heart-healthy fats and fiber. Plus, it’s quick to make, requires minimal cooking, and is completely customizable with your favorite vegetables and herbs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 large ripe avocados

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (about 2 medium breasts)

• ½ to 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced

• ¼ cup celery, finely diced

• ¼ cup red bell pepper, diced

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional:

• ¼ cup Greek yogurt, for extra creaminess

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken (if needed)
   If you’re starting with raw chicken, season it lightly with salt and pepper, then grill or bake until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Let the chicken cool, then dice it into small cubes.

2. Prepare the Avocado Base
   Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a large mixing bowl.
   Mash the avocado with a fork until it reaches your desired texture—either smooth or slightly chunky.

3. Add Vegetables and Chicken
   To the mashed avocado, add the diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, celery, and red bell pepper.

4. Season and Mix
   Sprinkle in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   If you’re using Greek yogurt, add it now for a creamier consistency.
   Gently fold all the ingredients together until thoroughly combined.

5. Taste and Adjust
   Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more lime juice for brightness, or additional salt and pepper to suit your preference.

6. Chill and Serve
   Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 2–3 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time (if needed): 15–20 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.

• Extra Protein: Include chopped hard-boiled eggs or a spoonful of quinoa for added protein and texture.

• Dairy-Free: Skip the Greek yogurt to keep it dairy-free or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

• Wrap It Up: Serve in lettuce wraps, whole grain tortillas, or pita pockets for a portable meal.

• Crunch Factor: Add chopped nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For best freshness, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize browning from the avocado.

• Note: This recipe is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh avocado.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken can be used for convenience. Be sure to drain it well before mixing.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Add extra lime juice and store the salad with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to slow oxidation.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, when made without tomatoes or with fewer, this recipe fits well into a keto diet.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken adds flavor and saves time.

What can I serve this salad with?

It pairs well with whole grain crackers, on toast, inside wraps, or over a bed of greens.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and omit Greek yogurt or use a dairy-free substitute.

How do I know when the avocado is ripe?

A ripe avocado yields slightly to gentle pressure and has a dark, even skin tone.

Can I use lemon instead of lime?

Yes, lemon juice can be used in place of lime for a slightly different citrus flavor.

What kind of tomatoes work best?

Cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and firmness.

Can I meal prep this salad?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep ingredients separately and combine them before serving.

Conclusion

This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is a flavorful, nutrient-dense dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a meal prep solution, this salad offers freshness, texture, and satisfying nutrition. It’s the perfect way to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing taste.