This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and fresh veggies. It’s full of flavor and keeps things light and fresh!
You can easily whip it up in no time, making it perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. I love throwing in some crunchy nuts for extra zest—it’s a salad that truly satisfies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess to the salad. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist if avocados are unavailable. I also like to add extra lime here to keep the yogurt from overpowering other flavors.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully for its flavor and ease. If you’re looking for something lighter, grilled chicken breast is a great alternative. For a vegetarian option, consider chickpeas or white beans.
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is best in summer, but canned or frozen corn works just fine any time of year. I often use a mixture of fresh and canned corn for added texture—give it a try!
Herbs: Fresh cilantro or dill brightens the salad. If neither appeals to you, try parsley or basil instead. Fresh herbs are key to elevating the dish’s freshness.
Bacon: The optional cooked bacon adds crunch and flavor. However, you can use turkey bacon or omit it completely for a lighter version. I sometimes toss in roasted chickpeas instead for a crunchy vegetarian counterpart.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken Salad is Well-Mixed Without Being Mushy?
Mixing the ingredients without turning the avocado into a paste is crucial. Here are my tips to maintain texture:
- Start with dry ingredients like chicken, corn, and onion. Mix these first to avoid mashing the avocado.
- Add the diced avocado last and gently fold it in. This way, you keep those wonderful chunks intact.
- Use a light hand when tossing in the lime juice, salt, garlic powder, and any optional ingredients like bacon.
- If the salad sits for a while, the avocado will break down. Serve it freshly mixed for the best consistency!
How to Make Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 large ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen, thawed)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or dill, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2-3 slices of cooked bacon, chopped (for added flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and does not require any cooking! If you prefer letting the flavors meld, you can refrigerate it for an additional 30 minutes. Altogether, you can enjoy this lovely salad in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken and Avocado:
Start by placing the shredded or cubed chicken in a large mixing bowl. Then, add the diced avocado on top. This forms the base of your salad and gives it a creamy texture.
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, toss in the corn, finely chopped red onion, and your choice of chopped herbs (cilantro or dill). These ingredients add freshness and a burst of flavor to your salad!
3. Add Lime and Seasoning:
Now, squeeze the juice of the lime over the mixture—it’ll give a nice tang! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re using bacon, add the chopped pieces now for that extra layer of flavor.
4. Mix it Up:
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well combined. Aim for the avocado to be slightly mashed but still chunky, making the salad creamy yet textured.
5. Taste and Serve:
Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary—add more salt or lime juice if you want! You can serve it right away or put it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. It’s delicious on its own or as a filling in wraps or sandwiches. Enjoy your healthy and flavorful dish!
## FAQ for Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken will work great. Just shred or cube it before adding to the salad. This is a perfect way to repurpose leftovers!
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you’re not a fan of avocado, you can use plain Greek yogurt for creaminess or mashed chickpeas for a similar texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly with these substitutes!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the freshness of the avocado, squeeze a little extra lime juice on top before sealing it. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Consider adding diced bell peppers, cucumber, or even shredded carrots for extra crunch and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the dressing to keep it balanced!
