This Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe is a refreshing, creamy, and protein-packed dish perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, or a light dinner. Using ripe avocados in place of heavy mayonnaise gives this salad a rich texture while keeping it nutritious and wholesome. With tender chicken, crisp veggies, and bright lime flavor, this recipe delivers satisfying flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a healthy twist on classic chicken salad or a versatile meal you can serve on toast, in lettuce wraps, or straight from the bowl, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves simple, fresh, and delicious meals.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming pre-cooked chicken)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yield: About 4 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and mashed (or diced for chunkier texture)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional mix-ins: cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, jalapeño, corn, or crumbled bacon
Directions
- Prepare the Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, mash the avocados until mostly smooth, leaving a few small chunks for texture. Stir in lime juice to help prevent browning. - Add Vegetables and Seasonings:
Mix in the red onion, celery, garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper until well combined. - Fold in the Chicken:
Add the shredded or diced chicken to the avocado mixture, gently folding until the chicken is evenly coated. - Taste & Adjust:
Add more lime juice, salt, or herbs depending on your preference. Keep in mind that avocados absorb seasoning, so don’t be afraid to flavor generously. - Serve:
Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors marry. Serve on toasted bread, in lettuce wraps, inside a tortilla, or alongside crackers.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Use chilled chicken for the best texture and a refreshing salad.
- Don’t skip the lime juice—it prevents browning and enhances flavor dramatically.
- If prepping ahead, place plastic wrap directly on the salad surface to minimize oxidation.
- Rotisserie chicken works beautifully for a fast, flavorful shortcut.
- Add crunch with toasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, or crispy chickpeas.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated Values
- Calories: 295
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 1g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 56mg
- Sodium: 310mg
Conclusion
This Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe is the perfect combination of creamy, fresh, and satisfying flavors—all made with simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s versatile enough for sandwiches, wraps, or meal prep bowls, and it comes together in just minutes. Whether you're seeking a healthier alternative to traditional chicken salad or a quick weeknight option, this recipe offers a delicious, nutrient-rich solution you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy it fresh, share it with family, or add your favorite mix-ins to create a version that suits your taste perfectly!
