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Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe

4.8 from 98 reviews

This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish combining creamy ripe avocados with tender diced chicken breast and fresh vegetables. Enhanced with a hint of lime juice, cilantro, and optional Greek yogurt for extra creaminess, this salad is perfect as a light meal or a refreshing side. It offers a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it ideal for a wholesome and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (about 2 medium breasts)

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 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

Avocado & Dressing

  • 2 large ripe avocados
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: If starting with raw chicken, season it with salt and pepper. Grill or bake the chicken until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Allow the chicken to cool, then dice it into small cubes.
  2. Prepare the Avocados: Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a large bowl.
  3. Mash the Avocado: Using a fork, mash the avocado to your desired texture—either smooth or slightly chunky depending on preference.
  4. Add Vegetables and Chicken: Add the diced chicken, halved cherry or grape tomatoes, finely diced red onion, celery, and diced red bell pepper to the bowl with the mashed avocado.
  5. Season the Salad: Sprinkle the chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the mixture.
  6. Add Creaminess: If using, add the Greek yogurt to the mixture for a richer and creamier texture.
  7. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold all ingredients together until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
  8. Adjust the Flavor: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding extra lime juice, salt, or pepper to suit your preference.
  9. Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for fresh flavors or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Notes

  • To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of grilling or baking chicken breasts.
  • For a dairy-free version, omit the Greek yogurt or substitute with a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
  • The salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day; avocado may brown slightly over time.
  • Adjust the level of garlic powder and lime juice to your taste preference for a more pronounced flavor.
  • Serve the salad on its own, on a bed of greens, or wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla for a healthy wrap option.

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