Name: Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped); 1 large ripe avocado (peeled and mashed); 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice; 1/4 cup celery (finely chopped); 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped); 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped); Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: pinch of garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes

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Avocado Chicken Salad is the breezy, flavor-packed answer to your lunch rut, bringing creamy avocado together with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a punchy splash of citrus. In just 15 minutes, you get a deliciously satisfying meal that feels vibrant and endlessly customizable. Whether you scoop it on toast, stuff it in lettuce wraps, or eat it straight from the bowl (no judgment!), this easy recipe delivers freshness and comfort in every bite.

Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Avocado Chicken Salad is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role, from the creamy avocado to the burst of brightness from fresh herbs. These easy-to-find items all work together to create layers of taste, texture, and color that make this salad truly crave-worthy.

Chicken Breast (2 cups, cooked, shredded or chopped): The hearty protein base—use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience!
Large Ripe Avocado (1, peeled and mashed): Creamy, buttery avocado brings healthy fats and an irresistible texture.
Plain Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Adds even more creaminess and a gentle tang (Greek yogurt offers extra protein, too!).
Fresh Lemon or Lime Juice (1 tablespoon): A bright citrus kick that balances the richness and keeps the colors vibrant.
Celery (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Crunchy and refreshing—a little goes a long way in the texture department.
Red Onion (1/4 cup, finely chopped): For a crisp bite and a gorgeous pop of color.
Fresh Cilantro or Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): These herbs lift the whole salad with their freshness—pick your favorite!
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Season generously to elevate all the flavors.
Optional: Garlic Powder or Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (pinch): Adds a fun kick or mellow garlic note for those who like a twist.

How to Make Avocado Chicken Salad

Step 1: Create the Dressing

Start by mashing your ripe avocado in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Stir in the Greek yogurt or mayonnaise and the fresh lemon or lime juice. This creamy base acts as both your “dressing” and the magical ingredient that binds everything together—be sure to fully blend so you get luscious, even flavor in every forkful.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Veggies

Next, gently fold in the cooked chicken, celery, red onion, and fresh herbs. Giving everything a light toss ensures the chicken gets evenly coated with all that creamy avocado goodness, while the celery and onion bring bits of crunch and a subtle kick.

Step 3: Season and Combine

Now’s the time to season generously with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little heat or extra savoriness. Mix well—taste, adjust, and don’t be afraid to trust your palate! Your Avocado Chicken Salad should taste bright, savory, and full of character.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything’s perfectly mixed, you can serve the Avocado Chicken Salad immediately. The avocado keeps it ultra-creamy, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for the boldest flavors and brightest green hue. Get creative with your serving options, from bread to bowls!

How to Serve Avocado Chicken Salad

Garnishes

Finish your salad with extra chopped herbs, a sprinkle of toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for crunch, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Even a little extra citrus zest makes the flavors sing. These final touches aren’t just pretty—they’re an easy way to bump up flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

Pair your Avocado Chicken Salad with crisp lettuce leaves, whole grain crackers, or toasted sourdough for a hearty lunch. A side of simple greens or fresh fruit balances the meal beautifully and keeps things light and lively.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t stop at sandwiches—try stuffing your salad into avocado halves for a stunning brunch platter, pile it high on cucumber slices for bite-sized snacks, or tuck it into wraps and pitas for a picnic-ready meal. The possibilities are almost endless when you’re working with such a versatile, party-pleasing salad!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Avocado Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge—it’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days. To help prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly against the surface or squeeze a little extra citrus juice on top before sealing.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this dish, since avocado tends to lose its creamy texture and become watery once thawed. For the best results, always enjoy your Avocado Chicken Salad fresh from the fridge.

Reheating

No need to reheat—this salad is meant to be enjoyed cold! If you’re planning to serve it on toast or in a warm wrap, simply toast or warm the bread, then add your salad just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a tasty shortcut that saves time and adds fantastic flavor. Just shred or chop, and fold it right into your Avocado Chicken Salad.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

You can stick with classic mayonnaise if you prefer a richer taste, or try a dairy-free alternative like a plant-based yogurt to keep things light and allergy-friendly.

Will the avocado turn brown?

Avocado can brown after sitting, but the citrus juice in the recipe helps keep it green. Pressing plastic wrap directly onto the salad also helps reduce exposure to air and keeps your Avocado Chicken Salad looking fresh.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes—with a note! It tastes best within 24 to 48 hours because the avocado is at its brightest and creamiest, but you can prep the chicken and veggies ahead to save time when assembling later.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely—try chopped nuts, sliced grapes, bell peppers, or even a handful of arugula. Avocado Chicken Salad is endlessly flexible, so feel free to get creative based on your taste!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to shake up your lunch routine with something fresh, filling, and full of flavor, this Avocado Chicken Salad might just become your new favorite. It’s quick, endlessly adaptable, and brimming with that perfect creamy crunch. Grab some ripe avocados and give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!

Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe

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4.5 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Avocado Chicken Salad is a creamy, flavorful twist on classic chicken salad. The combination of ripe avocado, tender chicken, and fresh herbs makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
1 large ripe avocado (peeled and mashed)
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice

Additional Ingredients:

1/4 cup celery (finely chopped)
1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes

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Instructions

Mash Avocado: In a large bowl, mash the avocado with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise and lemon juice until creamy.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, celery, red onion, and fresh herbs. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder or red pepper flakes.
Mix Well: Mix everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Serve immediately on toast, in lettuce wraps, in sandwiches, or with crackers.