From time to time, I want something creamy, healthy, and filling—and this Avocado Chicken Salad is always the answer. It’s quick, fresh, and packed with good-for-you ingredients. I love how the avocado adds richness without needing any heavy dressing. With tender chicken, creamy avocado, red onion, and herbs, it feels nourishing and satisfying without being heavy.

And honestly, it’s one of those recipes that tastes good no matter how you serve it. You can eat it as a light meal or dress it up with other ingredients for a full lunch spread.

Adding a splash of lime juice and a spoonful of Greek yogurt brings everything together, and the result just tastes amazing! You’ll love it for sure, and for a perfect lunch, light dinner, or picnic dish, this salad is always a winner. It also works great as a make-ahead dish for work lunches or weekend outings.

For serving, I like it on toast or tucked in lettuce wraps, some pita chips on the side, or even as a filling in a soft tortilla. This Avocado Chicken Salad is super easy to make and always gets compliments. Plus, it’s naturally beautiful with all its colors and textures.

Is Avocado Chicken Salad Healthy?

Yes! This salad is naturally healthy, full of protein and healthy fats. Avocado provides heart-healthy fats and fiber, while chicken gives lean protein to keep you full. Greek yogurt adds creaminess with less fat than mayo. Plus, there’s no need for processed dressings—just real, fresh ingredients. It’s low in carbs, gluten-free, and can easily fit into keto or paleo lifestyles.

Perfect for

Perfect for busy weekdays when you want a no-cook, no-fuss lunch. Just toss it together with pre-cooked chicken and you’re good to go. It takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish.

Perfect for hot days when you don’t feel like using the stove. It’s refreshing, creamy, and requires no heating. Serve it chilled straight from the fridge for extra freshness.

Perfect for meal prep or leftovers. It holds up well in the fridge and can be eaten in different ways all week. Just prep once and enjoy it in sandwiches, bowls, or wraps.

Perfect for healthy eating goals. It’s clean, nourishing, and keeps you full without feeling heavy or greasy. A smart choice when you’re craving something tasty and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 tbsp lime juice (or lemon juice)
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or jalapeño

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Fork or potato masher
• Measuring spoons
• A spoon or a spatula for mixing
• Airtight container (for leftovers)

Making Avocado Chicken Salad

Step 1:

Scoop both avocados into a bowl. Mash one until smooth and creamy, and dice the other for chunks.

Step 2:

Add lime juice, yogurt (or mayo), salt, and pepper to the mashed avocado. Stir to make a creamy dressing.

Step 3:

Stir in the cooked chicken, red onion, and herbs. Add optional veggies like cucumber or jalapeño if desired.

Step 4:

Mix gently, taste, and adjust seasoning. Serve in wraps, sandwiches, or with crackers and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• Use ripe avocados for the best texture—soft but not mushy, with a rich buttery taste.
• Mix mashed avocado with diced pieces to get creamy and chunky bites in every forkful.
• Add lime juice right away to keep the avocado bright and fresh. It also adds a nice tang.
• Shred or cube your chicken small so it blends evenly with the creamy avocado base.
• Use cold, cooked chicken—it holds its shape better and stays juicy in the salad.
• Don’t over-mix—stir gently to keep a nice texture and avoid making it too mushy.
• Taste and adjust—add more salt, herbs, or lime depending on your flavor mood or what you’re serving it with.

Optional Ingredients

• Cucumber – Adds crunch and makes it more refreshing. Chop finely or dice for more texture.
• Cherry tomatoes – Halved and tossed in for juicy bites and a pop of color.
• Jalapeño —Use it for a little spice if you want a kick. Remove the seeds if you want it milder.
• Hard-boiled eggs – Diced eggs make it heartier and add extra protein.
• Celery – Classic salad, crunch, and fiber boost. It blends well with creamy avocado.
• Everything bagel seasoning – Sprinkle on top for extra flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

What to Pair with Avocado Chicken Salad?

To make this salad a full meal, serve it on whole grain toast or sandwich bread. It becomes a protein-packed open-faced sandwich that feels satisfying and hearty.

Try it in lettuce cups or low-carb wraps for a lighter, fresher lunch. Add sliced cucumber or carrots on the side for crunch and extra nutrition.

Serve it with tortilla chips or pita chips for dipping—perfect for casual lunches or a fun snack plate. It’s also a hit for parties and brunches.

You can also spoon it over a green salad and add extra toppings like olives, seeds, or feta for a full salad bowl. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or olive oil for more depth.

Variations and Substitutions

• No yogurt? Use mayo or mashed avocado only. It will still be creamy and rich with fewer ingredients.
• No cilantro? Use parsley, dill, or even chopped green onion instead. They bring different but fresh flavors.
• Vegetarian version? Swap chicken for chickpeas or diced boiled eggs. It’s still protein-rich and filling.
• No lime? Use lemon juice—it’s just as fresh and keeps the avocado from browning.
• Make it spicy? Add sriracha, hot sauce, or chili flakes to taste. Adjust based on your spice level.
• Want it dairy-free? Skip yogurt and use avocado with olive oil and lime. It’s smooth and satisfying.
• No cooked chicken? Use canned chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. It makes prep even faster.
• Add grains? Stir in cooked quinoa or brown rice for extra heartiness. It becomes more like a lunch bowl.

How to Store

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best eaten fresh, but the lime juice helps keep the avocado from browning too fast. Stir before serving to refresh the texture.

For the best texture, press plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing the container. This reduces air exposure and helps the salad stay green and vibrant. You can add a fresh splash of lime when serving again.

FAQ

Can I use canned chicken?

Absolutely! Canned chicken works well and saves time. Just drain it thoroughly and shred or break it up before mixing with the avocado.

Is this salad good for weight loss?

Yes, it’s full of healthy fats, lean protein, and fiber, which help keep you full longer. Just be mindful of portion size and pair it with light sides.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It adds flavor and makes this salad even faster to prepare.

What if my avocado isn’t ripe yet?

If your avocado is too firm, leave it on the counter for a day or two to ripen. You can also place it in a paper bag with a banana to speed things up.

How can I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeño, red pepper flakes, or a small spoonful of hot sauce. You can also mix in spicy mustard or chipotle powder for an extra kick.

Avocado Chicken Salad

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: SaladsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

00

minutes

Total time

15

minutes

Avocado Chicken Salad is a creamy, protein-packed dish made with tender chicken, ripe avocado, and fresh herbs. It’s quick to make, healthy, and perfect for wraps, sandwiches, or a light meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

• 2 ripe avocados

• 1 tbsp lime juice (or lemon juice)

• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayonnaise

• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or jalapeño

Directions

• Scoop both avocados into a bowl. Mash one until smooth and creamy, and dice the other for chunks.
• Add lime juice, yogurt (or mayo), salt, and pepper to the mashed avocado. Stir to make a creamy dressing.
• Stir in the cooked chicken, red onion, and herbs. Add optional veggies like cucumber or jalapeño if desired.
• Mix gently, taste, and adjust seasoning. Serve in wraps, sandwiches, or with crackers and enjoy!