This Avocado Chicken Salad is a tasty twist on a classic! Packed with protein from chicken and creamy avocado, it’s healthy and satisfying.
Making this salad is a breeze! I love how it’s mayo-free, yet still super creamy. Pair it with some crunchy veggies or eat it just on its own—delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Using cooked chicken breast makes it high in protein! You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.
Avocado: This is the star ingredient! Ripe avocados provide creaminess. If you’re out of avocados, consider mashed beans (like white beans) for a different texture. Just make sure they’re well mashed.
Red Onion: The sharpness of red onion adds great flavor. If you find red onion too strong, use green onions (scallions) instead for a milder taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring a nice sweetness and color. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, chopped regular tomatoes or even bell peppers can work well!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the salad. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or even fresh basil can be a tasty alternative.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor Without Mayo?
Using avocado and lime juice for creaminess and brightness takes this salad to the next level! Here’s how to balance those flavors:
- Start with ripe avocados; they should yield slightly when you press them. This means they’re perfect for mashing.
- For the dressing, ensure the lime juice and Dijon mustard are well combined. This gives a nice tangy kick.
- When mixing, gently fold the avocado in to avoid turning it to mush. You want nice chunks in your salad!
- Letting it chill for 20 minutes really allows the flavors to blend beautifully, enhancing that fresh taste.
Enjoy experimenting with different herbs and spices as well; this recipe is super flexible!
Avocado Chicken Salad (High Protein, No Mayo)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Avocado Chicken Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. If you let it chill for 20 minutes, the flavors will meld beautifully, but you can enjoy it right away if you’re short on time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or chopped cooked chicken, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Stir gently to combine, making sure the avocado stays in chunks for creaminess.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, Dijon mustard, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until everything is well mixed, creating a flavorful dressing.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently toss the ingredients together, being careful not to mash the avocado. You want it all to be mixed but still maintain some texture!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste! Feel free to adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice to your liking.
5. Serve or Chill:
Enjoy your Avocado Chicken Salad right away! If you have a little time, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes; this step allows the flavors to meld together for a refreshing dish. Serve it on its own or wrapped in a tortilla!
This recipe is packed with protein and flavor, making it a perfect healthy meal without any mayonnaise. Enjoy your delicious and creamy chicken salad! 🌟
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Shred or chop it up, and you’re good to go!
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you don’t have avocado, mashed beans like white or chickpeas can be a great alternative, adding creaminess without the fat. Just make sure to mash them well!
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
The Avocado Chicken Salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown, so it’s best eaten within that timeframe.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Yes, feel free to customize! Adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, celery, or even corn can enhance the texture and flavor of your salad. Just keep the overall balance in mind!