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If fresh and flavorful is what you’re after, this Avocado Chicken Salad has your name all over it. Juicy chicken, creamy avocado, sweet cherry tomatoes, and zesty lime dressing—it’s simple, healthy, ready in just 15 minutes, and perfect for a quick meal. Plus, it’s a salad that actually fills you up!
Before You Start
- Choose Ripe Avocados: Look for avocados that give slightly when pressed but aren’t mushy. Overripe avocados will turn the salad too soft.
- Use Freshly Cooked or Rotisserie Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but freshly cooked chicken is also great. Shred or dice it, whatever you prefer.
- Prepare the Dressing Last Minute: Whisk the lime juice and olive oil together right before tossing the salad to keep the flavors bright and fresh.
- Serve Immediately: Avocado tends to brown quickly, so this salad is best enjoyed as soon as it’s made. If you need to prep ahead, toss the avocado in a little lime juice to slow browning.
- Season to Taste: Salt is key to bringing out all the flavors, so add it gradually and taste as you go.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cooked Chicken: A rotisserie chicken is perfect here or you can cook your own chicken, grill it, air fry it, or boil, it’s up to you. Shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
- Avocados: Use ripe avocados for the best texture.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes work just as well if needed.
- Red Onion: For a milder flavor, soak the chopped onion in cold water before adding it, or use green onions instead.
- Lime Juice: Lemon juice works as an alternative if needed.
- Olive Oil: Adds a light, silky coating to the salad, making it feel luxurious without being heavy. You can swap with avocado oil for a nuttier flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple, yet essential for bringing out all the flavors in the salad. Season to taste and adjust as needed.
Alright, let’s make this Avocado Chicken Salad—it’s so quick and easy, you’ll have it ready before you know it. First, make sure your chicken is shredded or diced and ready to go. You’ll also want to make sure your other ingredients are chopped and ready to go.
First, grab a large bowl and add your chopped chicken, avocado, red onion and cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together well.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. It’s a simple, zesty dressing that really pulls the flavors together. Taste it before adding—this is your chance to adjust the salt and lime to suit your preference.
Pour the dressing over the chicken, avocado, and veggies. Toss everything gently to coat. Go easy here—avocado is delicate, and you don’t want to mash it into the salad. You’re aiming for a light, even coating of the dressing on all the ingredients.
How To Serve
This salad is best served fresh, so get it to the table right away. It’s also very versatile, so while you can serve all on its own for a nice refreshing lunch, you can also pair with something light and fresh, or a little crunch for contrast. Here are some ideas:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to prepare the components separately. Store the chicken, chopped veggies, and dressing in separate containers in the fridge. Add the avocado and dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.
How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the avocado from browning, squeeze a little lime juice over it before storing.
Can I freeze this salad?
No, this salad doesn’t freeze well due to the avocados, which can become mushy and watery when thawed. If you need to freeze something, freeze the cooked chicken separately and prepare the salad fresh when ready to eat.
Can I use other vegetables in place of the ones listed?
Absolutely! Diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots would work well as substitutes or additions to this salad.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes, cooked turkey, shrimp, or even chickpeas work well as substitutes for chicken. This salad is super versatile.
More Delicious Salad Recipes
- Shrimp Avocado Salad
- Greek Salad
- Chinese Chicken Salad
- Cobb Salad
- Niçoise Salad
- Vietnamese Chicken Salad
Avocado Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 2 ripe avocados diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ cup red onion finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken and avocado mixture. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Serve the avocado chicken salad on its own or over a bed of lettuce leaves for a light and refreshing meal.
Tips & Notes:
- Use a rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
- Add the avocado just before serving to keep it from browning.
- Taste the dressing before tossing—adjust the lime and salt to suit your preference.
- Serve it as a salad, in wraps, or on toast for versatility.
