Description
This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is a delicious and nutritious meal that combines creamy avocado with tender chicken and crunchy vegetables. It’s quick to prepare, packed with protein and healthy fats, and perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe avocados
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (about 2 medium breasts)
- ½ to 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup celery, finely diced
- ¼ cup red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional:
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt for extra creaminess
Instructions
1. If starting with raw chicken, season it with salt and pepper, then grill or bake until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Let it cool, then dice into small cubes.
2. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a large bowl.
3. Mash the avocado with a fork until it reaches your desired consistency (smooth or slightly chunky).
4. Add the diced chicken, halved cherry or grape tomatoes, red onion, celery, and red bell pepper to the bowl with the mashed avocado.
5. Sprinkle in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. If using, add the Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
7. Gently fold all ingredients together until well combined.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lime juice, salt, or pepper to your preference.
9. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
This salad is excellent for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh due to the avocado.
You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Serve the salad on lettuce wraps, in a sandwich, or with whole grain crackers for a complete meal.
Adding Greek yogurt boosts creaminess and protein without adding much fat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg