Looking for an easy, healthy chicken recipe that’s packed with flavor? This Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad is a fantastic choice for a quick lunch or light dinner. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare and how satisfying it tastes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly.
- Avocado: Choose ripe, but firm avocados for the best texture.
- Greek Yogurt: You can substitute with mayonnaise for a richer flavor, or a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
- Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch. Feel free to skip if you’re not a fan.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 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: 2-3
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies with portion size and specific ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Start by shredding or dicing your cooked chicken. Make sure your pieces are bite-sized so they mix well with the other ingredients. This is a great way to use up any leftover Easy Healthy Chicken Recipes you might have.
2. Dice the Avocado and Celery
Next, carefully dice your ripe avocados and chop your celery into small pieces. These ingredients add a wonderful texture and freshness to your chicken salad. If using, chop your fresh cilantro as well.
3. Whisk the Dressing Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth and creamy dressing. You can adjust the seasonings to your taste.
4. Combine and Mix
Add the cooked chicken, diced avocado, chopped celery, and cilantro (if using) to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over these ingredients. Gently fold everything together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad immediately. It’s delicious on its own, in lettuce wraps, or as a sandwich filling. This easy healthy chicken recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a touch of red onion for a sharper flavor.
- Stir in some chopped bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
- Mix in a tablespoon of chopped chives for a mild onion flavor.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days. The avocado may brown slightly over time, but it will still be safe to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use canned chicken for convenience. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the salad.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
The lime juice in the dressing helps prevent browning. You can also press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad before storing it.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any serving accompaniments (like bread) are also gluten-free if that’s a dietary need.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and dressing a day in advance. Add the diced avocado and mix everything together just before serving to maintain freshness.
What can I serve this with?
This easy healthy chicken recipe is great in lettuce cups, on whole-grain crackers, as a sandwich filling, or alongside a green salad.
Is this a good option for meal prep?
It can be, but keep in mind the avocado may brown. For best meal prep results, store the dressing and chicken mixture separately from the avocado, and combine just before eating.