Avocado Chicken Salad Fresh and Healthy Recipe

January 5, 2026August 3, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Avocado Chicken Salad

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 ripe avocado, diced into cubes

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/2 cup corn (freshly cooked or canned, drained)

– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

In this salad, cooked chicken gives us protein. Avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. Cherry tomatoes bring sweetness. Corn adds crunch, while red onion offers zing. Fresh cilantro rounds out the flavors. Lime juice brightens the dish. Olive oil adds smoothness, and cumin gives a warm touch.

Optional Add-ins for Enhanced Flavor

You can add extra ingredients to boost taste. Consider adding:

– Diced bell peppers for color and sweetness

– Black beans for more fiber and protein

– Jalapeños for a spicy kick

– Feta cheese for a salty, creamy bite

These add-ins can change the salad’s profile. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste.

Nutritional Information per Serving

Each serving contains roughly:

– Calories: 350

– Protein: 30g

– Fat: 20g

– Carbohydrates: 15g

– Fiber: 5g

This salad is healthy and filling. It provides good fats and protein to keep you satisfied. Enjoying this dish is a tasty way to eat well.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Ingredients

First, gather all your ingredients. You need:

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 ripe avocado, diced

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/2 cup corn, cooked or canned

– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Start with the chicken. Shred it into small pieces. Next, dice the avocado into cubes. Be gentle to keep the pieces intact. Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the red onion and cilantro. If using corn from a can, drain it well.

Mixing the Salad Base

In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken first. This is your salad base. Carefully fold in the diced avocado. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes, corn, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Make sure all the ingredients mix well, but do it gently to avoid smashing the avocado.

Creating the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the dressing ingredients. You need:

– 2 tablespoons lime juice

– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– Salt and pepper, to taste

Whisk these together until you see a smooth mixture. Drizzle this dressing over your salad. Use a light touch to toss everything, so the flavors mix without breaking the avocado. After tasting, adjust the seasoning if needed. Let the salad chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend nicely. Enjoy your fresh and healthy avocado chicken salad!

Tips & Tricks

How to Keep Avocados Fresh

To keep avocados fresh, store them in the fridge. If you cut one open, sprinkle lime juice on the exposed flesh. This slows browning. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Use it within one day for the best taste.

Best Chicken Options for This Recipe

Use cooked chicken from a rotisserie for quick prep. Grilled or poached chicken also works well. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This allows the chicken to mix easily with the salad and enhances flavor.

Presentation Tips for Serving

For a lovely presentation, use a large platter. Spoon the salad in the center, leaving space around it. Add extra cilantro leaves on top. Bright lime wedges add color and invite your guests to dig in. Serving on crisp lettuce adds crunch and style.

Variations

Different Dressings to Try

You can change the flavor with various dressings. Here are a few ideas:

– Greek Yogurt Dressing: Mix Greek yogurt, garlic, and dill.

– Honey Mustard Dressing: Combine honey, mustard, and a splash of vinegar.

– Creamy Avocado Dressing: Blend avocado, lime juice, and a bit of water.

Each dressing adds a unique twist to your salad. Experiment to find your favorite!

Alternative Ingredients for Customization

Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you like. Try these options:

– Different Proteins: Use shrimp, tofu, or turkey instead of chicken.

– Add Crunch: Toss in nuts like almonds or walnuts for texture.

– Fruits: Add mango or pineapple for a sweet touch.

These swaps let you create a salad that matches your taste.

Serving Suggestions for Each Variation

How you serve your salad can make it special. Here are some ideas:

– On a Bed of Greens: Serve your salad on lettuce or spinach for extra crunch.

– In a Wrap: Use a tortilla to make a fresh, tasty wrap.

– As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.

These serving options can change how you enjoy your salad every time!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers Properly

Store any leftover avocado chicken salad in an airtight container. This keeps the salad fresh. If you have extra dressing, store it separately. This helps avoid soggy salad.

Best Practices for Reheating

Reheat the salad gently in the microwave. Use low power to warm it up. Be careful not to overheat, as the avocado can become mushy. If you used cold chicken, heat only until warm, not hot.

Shelf Life in the Refrigerator

The salad lasts about 3 days in the fridge. After this, the avocado may brown and the flavors may fade. Check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned chicken. It saves time and is easy to use. Just drain the chicken and shred it. The taste may differ, but it works well in a pinch. Canned chicken blends nicely with the salad’s fresh ingredients.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to eat. This way, the avocado stays fresh, and the salad remains crunchy.

What can I substitute for lime juice?

You can use lemon juice instead of lime juice. Lemon juice gives a nice tang and works well. If you want a sweeter taste, try using apple cider vinegar. Both options will add flavor to your salad.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

The salad lasts about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh. The avocado may brown, but you can mix it up before serving. If you notice any off smells, it’s best to toss it.

Avocado chicken salad is a tasty dish with healthy ingredients and easy steps. You learned how to prepare fresh avocados, mix a creamy dressing, and pick the right chicken. I shared tips to keep your salad fresh and ideas for fun variations. Remember, you can store leftovers and enjoy them later. With these simple tricks, you can make this salad a regular in your meals. Try customizing it to suit your taste. Each bite will be deliciou