This Avocado Chicken Salad is a tasty blend of chicken and creamy avocado, making it both healthy and filling. You won’t even miss the mayo, I promise!
It’s perfect for a light lunch or snack. I love to eat it on whole grain bread or with crunchy crackers. So good and so easy to make—you’ll want to whip it up all the time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Use cooked, shredded chicken for the best texture. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. You can also use canned chicken, but make sure to drain it well!
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess. If you can’t find ripe ones, look for Haas avocados as they ripen nicely. Alternatively, you could substitute with mashed tahini or a nut butter for a different flavor.
Greek Yogurt: This adds a bit of creaminess and protein. For a dairy-free version, try silken tofu blended until smooth or a vegan yogurt. I personally enjoy the tang from regular yogurt, but feel free to skip it!
Dijon Mustard: This gives a nice flavor kick! Yellow mustard works well too, or you can omit it if you’re not a fan. Adding a touch of hot sauce can also spice things up!
Cilantro: This herb adds freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions can be excellent substitutes. Some even like a hint of basil for a different twist!
How Do I Prevent the Avocado from Browning?
Avocado can brown quickly due to oxidation. To keep your salad looking fresh, here are some handy tips:
- Use fresh lime juice, as the acidity helps slow down browning.
- Mix the avocado with the dressing quickly to coat it. This protects it from air exposure.
- If you’re making it ahead, put plastic wrap directly on the surface of the avocado to minimize contact with air.
These simple tricks can help maintain that vibrant green color while keeping your salad tasty! Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Avocado Chicken Salad!
Avocado Chicken Salad (High Protein, No Mayo)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 large ripe avocado, diced
For Dressing and Flavor:
- 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess, no mayo needed)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation. If you chill it for 30 minutes afterwards, the flavors will meld beautifully together, but you can enjoy it right away too!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken and Avocado:
Start by placing the shredded chicken breast into a large bowl. Then, add the diced avocado. Gently combine these together. Be careful not to mash the avocado too much—you’re looking for nice chunks to keep that creamy texture!
2. Mix the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), Dijon mustard, fresh lime juice, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended and creamy.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and avocado mixture. With a spatula or a spoon, gently fold everything together until each piece is coated in the dressing. Be delicate to preserve the avocado chunks!
4. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Now, add the finely diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions to the bowl. Stir gently again to mix everything together well.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Sneak a taste of your salad! You can adjust with more salt, pepper, or a splash more of lime juice if you feel it needs it. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so make it your own!
6. Serve It Up:
Serve your Avocado Chicken Salad right away on whole grain bread, in lettuce wraps, or simply with some crunchy crackers. If you prefer, chill it for about 30 minutes in the fridge first. Either way, it’s going to be delicious!
Enjoy this wonderful blend of flavors that’s high in protein and totally mayo-free!
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Something Else?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, you can use chickpeas or quinoa instead of chicken. Both provide a good source of protein and will complement the flavors well. You could also try canned tuna if you prefer seafood!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the avocado may browning over time, so it’s ideal to eat it sooner rather than later!
Can I Use Other Herbs Besides Cilantro?
Yes! Feel free to swap out cilantro for your favorite herbs like parsley, basil, or even dill. Each will give the salad a unique flavor profile, so choose whichever you enjoy most!
What Can I Serve with This Salad?
This Avocado Chicken Salad is versatile! It’s great on whole grain bread, in lettuce wraps, or on a bed of greens. You could also pair it with crackers or serve it as a filling for tacos for a fun twist!
