You are looking for a healthy and satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. This Avocado Lime Chicken Salad offers a creamy, zesty twist on a classic, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of Healthy Chicken Recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly.
- Avocado: Choose ripe but firm avocados for the best texture.
- Greek Yogurt: Use plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free option, use a plain unsweetened dairy-free yogurt.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice provides the best flavor.
- Red Onion: If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak sliced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before using.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant herby note; omit if you dislike it.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming pre-cooked chicken)
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 kcal
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, cutting board, knife, measuring spoons and cups.
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Begin by shredding or dicing your cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Place these pieces into a large mixing bowl. This forms the lean protein base for your healthy chicken recipe.
2. Add Avocado and Red Onion
Next, add your diced avocado and finely diced red onion to the bowl with the chicken. Ensure the avocado is ripe for easy mashing and a creamy texture.
3. Create the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing is what gives your chicken salad its bright, tangy flavor.
4. Combine and Mix
Pour the yogurt-lime dressing over the chicken, avocado, and red onion mixture. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are well combined and the avocado is slightly mashed, creating a creamy consistency.
5. Stir in Cilantro and Serve
Finally, stir in the fresh chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice to your preference. Serve immediately and enjoy this healthy chicken recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Crunch Factor: Mix in some chopped celery or bell peppers for added texture.
- Extra Veggies: Include finely diced cucumber or corn for more freshness.
- Wrap it Up: Serve in lettuce wraps, whole wheat tortillas, or hollowed-out bell pepper halves.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Avocado Lime Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Due to the avocado, it’s best to consume it relatively quickly as the avocado may brown over time. A squeeze of extra lime juice before storing can help minimize browning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and dressing components ahead of time, but it’s best to combine the avocado and cilantro just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent browning.
What kind of chicken should you use?
Any cooked chicken breast works well. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, or you can bake, grill, or poach chicken breast specifically for this recipe.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s a great option for healthy chicken recipe meal prep. Just store the avocado and dressing separately and combine them right before you eat.
Can you use regular mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt?
While you can, Greek yogurt offers a healthier, tangier, and lighter alternative. If you prefer mayonnaise, use a light version.
How can you prevent the avocado from browning?
The lime juice in the dressing helps, but an extra squeeze of lime juice over the salad before storing it can further reduce browning.
What are some good ways to serve this chicken salad?
It’s delicious on its own, in lettuce cups, as a sandwich filling, or scooped onto cucumber slices.