This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad is a creamy delight that combines tender chicken, ripe avocados, and crunchy veggies. Plus, it’s super refreshing, making it perfect for warm days!
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just mix everything in a bowl and it’s ready to enjoy. It’s my go-to for lunch, and I often pair it with some crispy crackers for a fun crunch! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they cook quickly. You could substitute with grilled or rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience. For a plant-based option, try canned chickpeas or quinoa.
Avocado: Avocados give creaminess and healthy fats. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you could use Greek yogurt instead. Just know it will change the flavor a bit.
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper add crunch and freshness. Feel free to swap in other veggies like corn, radishes, or even diced carrots based on what you have on hand.
Cilantro or Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh basil or dill can be a wonderful substitute.
How Can You Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with medium-high heat and add oil to your skillet to prevent sticking.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side without moving it, to get a nice sear.
- Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part; it should be white throughout without any pink.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. It helps lock in the juices, making it more tender.
Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
- Additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare. In about 10 minutes, you can season and cook the chicken, while chopping the veggies and assembling the salad will take another 10-15 minutes. It’s a quick, healthy meal option for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts evenly with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is coated well for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the juices run clear. This will ensure they are golden brown on the outside and juicy inside!
3. Slice the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is essential for locking in the juices. After resting, slice the chicken into strips.
4. Combine the Veggies:
In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro or parsley. These fresh ingredients will add a colorful crunch to your salad!
5. Prepare the Dressing:
Add the freshly squeezed lime juice and an additional tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to the bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients together to blend the flavors without mashing the avocado.
6. Assemble Your Salad:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place the sliced chicken on top of the vegetable avocado mixture in the bowl.
7. Final Seasoning and Serve:
Give your salad a gentle toss and add more salt and pepper to taste if necessary. Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, healthy salad as a perfect lunch or dinner!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with the salad ingredients.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover avocado chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to eat it fresh due to the avocado, which can brown over time. If you plan to make ahead, consider adding the avocado just before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you’re looking for an alternative to avocado, you can use Greek yogurt for creaminess or even hummus for a different spin! Just keep in mind that these substitutes will change the flavor profile a bit.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and ensure that any dressing ingredients are plant-based. You can also add extra veggies or nuts for protein and satisfaction!
