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This creamy avocado chicken salad transforms everyday ingredients into a refreshing meal that's perfect for lunch or a light dinner. The combination of tender chicken with creamy avocado creates a protein-packed dish that's both satisfying and nutritious.
I first created this recipe during a summer heatwave when turning on the oven was simply not an option. The cool, creamy texture was so satisfying that it's now my go-to lunch option year-round.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: provides lean protein and makes this a substantial meal. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully for convenience
- Ripe avocado: creates the creamy base without needing mayonnaise. Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure
- Lime juice: brightens the flavor and prevents the avocado from browning. Fresh is significantly better than bottled
- Greek yogurt: adds tangy creaminess and extra protein. Full-fat version delivers the best texture
- Celery: introduces a refreshing crunch and subtle flavor. Choose crisp stalks with vibrant color
- Green onions: provide mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish. Use both white and green parts
- Cherry tomatoes: bring bursts of juicy sweetness. Select firm tomatoes with vivid color
- Cucumber: adds refreshing crispness and hydration. English cucumbers have fewer seeds and thinner skin
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Create the creamy base:
- Mash the ripe avocado in a medium bowl until mostly smooth with some small chunks remaining for texture. Add the lime juice immediately to prevent browning, then mix in the Greek yogurt until well combined and creamy. This creates the luscious dressing that coats everything beautifully.
- Add the protein and crunch:
- Gently fold in the diced chicken, chopped celery, and sliced green onions. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Take care not to overmix or the chicken will break down too much. The goal is to coat everything evenly with the avocado mixture while maintaining distinct textures.
- Incorporate the fresh vegetables:
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices, folding them in with just a few strokes. These delicate ingredients should be added last to maintain their integrity and prevent the salad from becoming watery. The contrast between the creamy base and the fresh, juicy vegetables makes each bite interesting.
- Serve with care:
- Transfer to a serving dish or individual plates. If serving on lettuce, choose crisp varieties like romaine or butter lettuce. For lettuce wraps, separate whole leaves and scoop a generous portion into each. A final sprinkle of green onions on top adds visual appeal.
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The lime juice is truly the secret ingredient here. I learned from my grandmother that citrus not only prevents avocado browning but also creates a brightness that balances the rich creaminess. Every time I make this, I think of her kitchen garden where she grew the most aromatic limes.
Make-Ahead Tips
This salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, but there's a trick to keeping it fresh. Store the mixed ingredients without the tomatoes and cucumber in an airtight container. Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the salad to prevent air exposure, which causes the avocado to darken. Add the tomatoes and cucumber just before serving to maintain their texture and prevent excess moisture from being released into the salad.
Versatile Variations
The basic recipe provides a perfect canvas for customization. Try adding a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and healthy fats. Mediterranean flavors work beautifully with diced red bell pepper, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. For a southwest twist, incorporate black beans, corn kernels, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Each variation maintains the creamy base while offering a completely different flavor profile.
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Serving Suggestions
Beyond the classic lettuce wraps or bed of greens, this chicken salad shines in several presentations. Stuff it into a ripe avocado half for an impressive lunch presentation. Serve with multigrain crackers or cucumber rounds for a party appetizer. For a heartier meal, pile it onto toasted sourdough bread with microgreens. The versatility of this recipe means it can transition seamlessly from casual lunch to elegant dinner party starter.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does this avocado chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?
This salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours of preparation due to the avocado, which tends to oxidize and brown over time. Store in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to minimize air exposure. The lime juice helps slow browning, but for best taste and appearance, consume it fresh.
- → Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds great flavor. Simply remove the skin, shred or dice the meat, and measure out 2 cups. It's a convenient time-saver that doesn't compromise on taste.
- → What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don't have Greek yogurt, you can substitute with sour cream, mayonnaise, or dairy-free yogurt alternatives. Each will provide creaminess, though the flavor profile and nutritional content will vary slightly. Adjust quantities to taste.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
To make this dairy-free, simply replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative (such as coconut or almond milk yogurt) or use mashed avocado with a little extra lime juice for creaminess. The avocado itself provides plenty of richness.
- → What are some serving suggestions beyond lettuce wraps?
This versatile chicken salad works wonderfully as a sandwich filling, stuffed in pita pockets, scooped onto cucumber rounds as appetizers, served with crackers or tortilla chips, or spooned into halved avocados for an impressive presentation. It also pairs well with quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal.
- → Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Certainly! This salad is easily customizable. Try adding diced bell peppers, grated carrots, corn kernels, or diced jicama for extra crunch and nutrition. Fresh herbs like cilantro, dill, or parsley can also enhance the flavor profile.