This Avocado Chicken Salad is the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and fresh. The mashed avocado and Greek yogurt create a smooth and flavorful base, while the red onion, celery, and cherry tomatoes add just the right amount of crunch. Tossed in fresh herbs and lime juice, every bite is packed with bright and vibrant flavors.
Ideal for a quick lunch, meal prep, or even as a filling for sandwiches and wraps, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and high in protein—making it a great choice for a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Whether served on its own, over greens, or alongside whole-grain crackers, this salad is a delicious and wholesome meal option.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the avocado with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in the Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the shredded chicken and mix until well coated.
- Fold in the red onion, celery, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
- Drizzle olive oil over the salad and mix gently to combine.
- If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Avocado Chicken Salad
This Avocado Chicken Salad is a healthier twist on traditional chicken salad, using avocado and Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. The combination of lean protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the avocado makes this dish both filling and nutritious.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
- High in Protein – The shredded chicken provides a great source of lean protein, helping with muscle growth and keeping you full longer.
- Heart-Healthy Fats – Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – With minimal carbs and no added sugars, this salad fits perfectly into a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
- Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Option – The recipe is naturally gluten-free, and you can swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt if needed.
- Rich in Fiber & Vitamins – Ingredients like celery, cherry tomatoes, and red onion add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support digestion and overall health.
How to Serve Avocado Chicken Salad
This versatile salad can be enjoyed in multiple ways:
- On Its Own – Serve it as a protein-packed salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
- Lettuce Wraps – Spoon it into romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb wrap.
- On Toast or Crackers – Spread it on whole-grain toast or enjoy with your favorite crackers for a crunchy contrast.
- In a Wrap or Sandwich – Use it as a filling for whole-wheat tortillas, pita bread, or a sandwich.
- Over Greens – Turn it into a complete meal by serving it over a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of olive oil.
Key Features of This Recipe
✅ High in Protein – Packed with lean chicken breast, this salad helps keep you full and supports muscle growth.
✅ Healthy Fats – Avocados are a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, essential for overall wellness.
✅ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – With no processed ingredients or added sugars, this salad is ideal for low-carb and ketogenic diets.
✅ Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Option – Naturally gluten-free, and easily made dairy-free by substituting Greek yogurt with coconut or almond yogurt.
✅ Quick & Easy – Made in just 10 minutes with simple ingredients, making it perfect for meal prep or last-minute meals.
Ingredients Breakdown & Their Benefits
- Chicken Breast: A high-quality source of lean protein that helps with muscle repair and overall satiety.
- Avocado: A superfood rich in healthy fats, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, promoting good heart health.
- Greek Yogurt: Provides creaminess while adding probiotics, calcium, and extra protein (can be substituted with dairy-free yogurt).
- Lime Juice: Enhances the flavor while preventing the avocado from browning too quickly.
- Red Onion: Adds a mild sharpness and crunch while providing antioxidants that support immune health.
- Celery: Low in calories but high in fiber and crunch, improving digestion and adding texture.
- Cherry Tomatoes: A great source of vitamin C, lycopene, and antioxidants, giving the salad a fresh and juicy taste.
- Fresh Herbs (Cilantro or Parsley): Boosts flavor and adds a refreshing touch with natural anti-inflammatory properties.
- Olive Oil: Contains heart-healthy fats and enhances the dressing’s smoothness.
How to Enjoy Avocado Chicken Salad
One of the best things about this salad is how versatile it is. Here are some serving ideas:
- Classic Bowl: Enjoy it straight from a bowl for a simple and satisfying meal.
- Lettuce Wraps: Wrap it in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb alternative to sandwiches.
- Whole-Grain Toast: Spread it on toasted bread or crackers for a crunchy contrast.
- Pita or Wraps: Use it as a delicious filling for wraps or pita pockets.
- Salad Topping: Serve it over a bed of greens like spinach or arugula for an extra nutrient boost.
- Stuffed Avocado: For an elegant twist, scoop out half an avocado and fill it with the salad.
Pro Tips for the Best Avocado Chicken Salad
✔ Use Fresh Ingredients: The riper the avocado, the creamier the salad will be. Choose fresh vegetables for the best taste.
✔ Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a smoother texture, mash the avocado more thoroughly. For a chunkier salad, leave some avocado pieces intact.
✔ Keep It Fresh: To prevent browning, mix in extra lime juice or store the salad in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface.
✔ Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
✔ Boost the Flavor: Try adding crumbled feta cheese or chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra texture and taste.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prevent Browning: Since avocado can oxidize quickly, add a bit more lime juice before storing and cover the surface with plastic wrap.
- Avoid Freezing: Avocado does not freeze well, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This Avocado Chicken Salad is a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and fresh flavors. It’s not only delicious but also loaded with healthy ingredients that nourish your body. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday meal, a nutritious post-workout option, or a meal prep solution, this salad is an excellent choice.
Give it a try today, and enjoy a healthy, satisfying, and incredibly tasty meal! 😊🥑🍗
Conclusion
This Avocado Chicken Salad is a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for quick meals or meal prep. By replacing mayo with avocado and Greek yogurt, it offers a creamy texture while staying light and nutritious.
With just 10 minutes of prep, this versatile salad can be enjoyed in wraps, on toast, or on its own. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh ingredients, it’s a delicious way to eat well without extra effort. Try it today and enjoy a simple, satisfying, and wholesome meal! 🥑🍗✨