After a long day filled with meetings and deadlines, I often find comfort in the kitchen, where the magic of fresh ingredients can transform my mood. One evening, as I rummaged through the fridge, I discovered leftover rotisserie chicken and perfectly ripe avocados—two ingredients that seemed destined to come together. The result? An Avocado Chicken Salad that is not only creamy and satisfying but also completely free of mayo!
This recipe has become a staple in my home because it’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. With zesty lemon juice, crunchy green onions, and sweet grape tomatoes, this vibrant dish offers a refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a no-fuss dinner option, this healthy, gluten-free meal is sure to please. Let’s dive into making this easy, no-mayo Avocado Chicken Salad that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied!
Why is Avocado Chicken Salad the Perfect Choice?
Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Delight: Experience richness without the guilt, thanks to mashed avocado substituting traditional mayo.
Quick Prep: With minimal time required, you can enjoy this flavorful dish in under 20 minutes.
Healthy Twist: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it fits seamlessly into low-carb and gluten-free diets.
Fresh Flavors: Zesty lemon and crisp veggies bring out vibrant flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a salad, in a sandwich, or as lettuce wraps, adapting to your cravings effortlessly!
Avocado Chicken Salad Ingredients
• Discover the fresh components you’ll need to create this delightful dish!
For the Salad
- Avocado – Provides creaminess and healthy fats; use a ripe avocado for best results.
- Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and acidity; freshly squeezed is recommended for flavor.
- Green Onions – Contributes a mild onion flavor and freshness; can substitute with chopped red onion.
- Fresh Parsley – Adds herbal notes; substitute with cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Fresh Cilantro – Offers a bright, herbaceous element; omit if you’re not a fan.
- Minced Garlic – Provides savory depth; use fresh minced for best flavor; dried garlic can be a substitute.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
- Shredded Cooked Chicken Breast – Acts as the protein base; rotisserie chicken is ideal for convenience.
- Grape Tomatoes – Adds sweetness and juiciness to the salad; can substitute with diced celery for crunch.
How to Make Avocado Chicken Salad
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Mash In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe avocado with freshly squeezed lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This creates a delicious base for your salad.
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Mix Stir in chopped green onions, fresh parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Combine everything well, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully.
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Add Chicken Fold in the shredded cooked chicken breast gently, making sure each piece is coated evenly with the creamy avocado mixture. This is where the salad gets its tasty protein!
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Incorporate Tomatoes Gently fold in sliced grape tomatoes or diced celery, depending on your preference. The sweet, juicy bursts of flavor will elevate your salad to new heights.
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Serve Serve immediately as desired—on its own, between slices of your favorite whole grain bread, or as refreshing lettuce wraps. Enjoy a light and satisfying meal!
Optional: Top with additional herbs or a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Avocado Chicken Salad
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Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. Enjoy it cold for a refreshing and quick meal.
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Avoid Browning: To minimize browning of the avocado, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad before sealing the container.
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Freezer: We recommend against freezing this avocado chicken salad, as the texture of the avocado and tomatoes may not hold up well after thawing.
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Reheating: If serving it warm, gently reheat the shredded chicken before adding it to the salad, but avoid reheating the whole salad as it may compromise the creamy texture.
Avocado Chicken Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these simple twists!
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Greek Yogurt: Swap avocado for Greek yogurt for a protein-rich, tangy twist that’s lower in calories.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds or walnuts for delightful crunch and a boost of healthy fats. The added texture elevates the overall experience!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to awaken your taste buds with a spicy, lively flavor profile.
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Herb Infusion: Try incorporating fresh dill or basil instead of parsley for a fragrant alternative that enhances the freshness of the salad.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for vibrant colors and added crunch, creating a more robust dish full of nutrients.
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Fruit Fusion: Add diced apples or mango to introduce a hint of sweetness and contrast the creamy avocado with fruity bursts.
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Mediterranean Bliss: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair, making this salad irresistible and bursting with flavor.
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Delicious Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves instead of bread to wrap the salad for a fresh, gluten-free option that’s perfect for a light meal.
Expert Tips for Avocado Chicken Salad
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Choose Ripe Avocados: Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe for easy mashing and rich flavor. Underripe avocados can be difficult to blend.
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Season Accordingly: Taste your avocado chicken salad after adding the chicken and veggies to adjust seasoning. Sometimes a pinch more salt or lemon can elevate the whole dish!
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Avoid Browning: If you’re prepping ahead, keep mashed avocado from browning by covering it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface.
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Add Texture: For extra crunch, consider folding in chopped nuts or seeds. They can add a delightful contrast to the creamy avocado chicken salad.
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Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to mix up the herbs. Fresh dill or basil can add a unique twist to your avocado chicken salad that you might love!
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Storage Tips: This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days. Use an airtight container for optimal freshness.
What to Serve with Avocado Chicken Salad?
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that enhance the fresh flavors of this creamy, no-mayo dish.
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Crispy Corn Tortilla Chips: A satisfying crunch that complements the salad’s creaminess. Serve alongside for a fun, shareable option.
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Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein and fiber, it harmonizes wonderfully with the salad’s richness while adding texture to your plate.
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Sliced Cucumbers: Their cool, crunchy vibe pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado, providing a refreshing contrast in every bite.
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Zucchini Noodles: Light and gluten-free, these noodles are a fantastic way to enjoy a bigger serving of veggies while staying low on carbs.
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Sparkling Water: A bubbly beverage with a splash of lemon elevates the whole dining experience, cleansing the palate between bites.
Savor these sides along with your Avocado Chicken Salad for a well-rounded meal that’s both nourishing and delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Avocado Chicken Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the avocado mixture (without the chicken and tomatoes) up to 24 hours in advance by mashing the ripe avocados with lemon juice and stirring in green onions, parsley, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper. To maintain the avocado’s vibrant green color and quality, store it in an airtight container with a layer of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface. When you’re ready to serve, simply fold in the shredded chicken and grape tomatoes, giving you a fresh, delicious meal with minimal effort. Enjoy restaurant-quality results in no time!
Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right avocado?
Absolutely! Look for avocados that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy; a perfectly ripe avocado will yield gently when pressed. Dark green to nearly black skin indicates maturity, while any large dark spots may signal overripeness.
What’s the best way to store leftover Avocado Chicken Salad?
For the best flavor and texture, store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly against the surface of the salad before sealing; this limits exposure to air.
Can I freeze Avocado Chicken Salad?
I recommend against freezing this salad due to the avocado’s texture when thawed. If you must freeze, you can freeze just the shredded chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months, and then prepare the avocado mixture fresh when ready to serve.
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What should I do if the salad is too salty?
If you find your Avocado Chicken Salad has turned out too salty, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a small amount of diced celery to balance the flavors. The extra freshness can help mask some of that saltiness effectively.
How can I make this dish pet-friendly?
For a pet-safe version, leave out the garlic and onion, as these can be harmful to dogs and cats. Opt for plain, shredded chicken mixed with mashed avocado—it’s a healthy treat for your furry friends!
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Very! This recipe is versatile; try swapping chicken for canned tuna or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just ensure your other ingredients still blend well for that creamy, flavorful result. Enjoy exploring different combinations!
Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad No Mayo Quick and Healthy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe avocado with freshly squeezed lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the chopped green onions, fresh parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Fold in the shredded cooked chicken breast gently, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
- Gently fold in sliced grape tomatoes or diced celery, depending on your preference.
- Serve immediately as desired—on its own, between slices of your favorite whole grain bread, or as lettuce wraps.