If you’re on the hunt for a fresh, wholesome dish that manages to feel indulgent and satisfying all at once, this Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Bright, creamy avocados meet tender grilled chicken, while crisp cucumbers and juicy cherry tomatoes add bursts of color and texture. Tossed in a simple, zesty dressing that brings everything together, this salad is perfect for lunch, light dinner, or even a picnic treat. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it earns a permanent spot in my recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, fresh, and work harmoniously to create a salad that balances creaminess, zest, and crunch perfectly. Each element contributes not only flavor but also vibrant color and satisfying texture, making the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, perfect for quick grilling and slicing into tender pieces.
- Ripe avocados: Bring a buttery creaminess that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved to add juicy sweetness and a pop of color.
- Cucumber: Diced for cool, crunchy freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy avocado.
- Red onion: Finely chopped to give a mild, tangy sharpness without overpowering the salad.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed to brighten every bite with a zesty tang.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and smoothness to the dressing.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
How to Make Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavor. Cook them for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain its juiciness before slicing it thinly.
Step 2: Prep Your Veggies
While the chicken cools, it’s time to prepare the vibrant veggies. Chop the avocados into bite-sized cubes, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion. Toss all these fresh ingredients into a large mixing bowl to build the base of your salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple dressing is the magic ingredient that brings a lovely brightness and smooth texture to your salad without overpowering the fresh flavors.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the sliced chicken breast to your bowl of veggies and pour the lemon-olive oil dressing over the top. Gently toss everything together to coat each bite evenly with the dressing, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every forkful.
Step 5: Taste Test
Now comes the fun part — taste your creation! Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. This step personalizes the salad perfectly to your palate.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer the salad onto individual plates or a beautiful serving bowl. This Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe is best enjoyed fresh to savor the vibrant crunch and creamy textures at their peak. Grab a fork and dig in!
How to Serve Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of flavor and eye appeal, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro, parsley, or basil on top. A few toasted nuts or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty note.
Side Dishes
Keep things light with a side of crusty whole grain bread or pita chips for scooping. Alternatively, serve alongside a bowl of homemade soup for a balanced meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond the classic plated salad, try stuffing the mixture into halved avocado shells for a stunning presentation, or scoop it onto toasted baguette slices for a delicious salad bruschetta. This flexibility makes the Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe great for parties and casual meals alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best texture, consume within 1 to 2 days as the avocado may start to brown and the salad could release moisture over time.
Freezing
Because of the fresh avocado and raw vegetables, freezing is not recommended for this salad. The textures and flavors would be compromised once thawed.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy the chicken warm, separate it before mixing the salad and gently reheat the chicken only. Toss with the fresh veggies and avocado right before serving for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that keeps the salad easy and quick without sacrificing flavor. Just shred or dice the chicken and proceed with the recipe.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Using freshly squeezed lemon juice in the dressing helps slow down browning, but to keep it freshest, prepare the salad close to serving time and store it tightly covered in the fridge.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent sogginess, and add the avocado right before serving for the best texture and color.
Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?
Definitely. Feel free to experiment with diced bell peppers, corn, or even a handful of leafy greens to add more layers of flavor and nutrition.
What makes this Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe special?
It’s the perfect balance of creamy avocado, protein-rich chicken, and fresh crunchy veggies tossed in a bright, simple dressing. It’s both comforting and refreshing—making it a versatile go-to recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you want a recipe that’s easy to make but feels like a flavorful celebration, give this Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe a try. It’s a beautiful blend of fresh ingredients and satisfying protein that’s sure to brighten up your mealtime and maybe even become one of your staples like it has for me.
Print
Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A fresh and healthy Avocado Chicken Salad combining grilled chicken breasts with ripe avocados, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a zesty lemon olive oil dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this salad is packed with protein and healthy fats, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
Salad
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Dressing
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Let the chicken cool before slicing it into thin pieces.
- Prep Your Veggies: While the chicken cools, chop the avocados, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Combine all the chopped veggies in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Combine Everything: Add the sliced chicken to the bowl with the mixed vegetables. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss all ingredients together to evenly coat them with the dressing.
- Taste Test: Sample the salad and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed to balance the flavors.
- Serve It Up: Transfer the avocado chicken salad to individual plates or a large serving bowl and serve immediately for best freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Use ripe but firm avocados to prevent the salad from becoming too mushy.
- This salad is best served fresh as avocado can brown over time.
- You can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance to save time.
- Optional additions: fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add extra flavor.
