This Avocado Chicken Salad is a fresh and healthy meal that’s packed with protein! It’s creamy thanks to the avocado, and it skips the mayo, making it lighter and tastier.
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just mix shredded chicken, avocado, and your favorite veggies. Perfect for lunch or a snack, and it’s also great on toast! Yum! 🥑🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: For this recipe, cooked chicken breast works best! You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook your own. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, replace chicken with chickpeas for protein.
Avocado: A ripe avocado is key; it offers creaminess and healthy fats. If you can’t find ripe avocados, you could use Greek yogurt (not mayo!) or silken tofu for a similar creamy texture.
Red Onion: Red onion gives a nice crunch and a mildly sweet flavor. If it’s too strong for your taste, you can substitute it with green onions for a milder taste, or even omit it entirely!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley or even basil can work as tasty alternatives.
How Do You Get the Right Creamy Texture Without Mayo?
Getting a creamy texture without mayo relies on how you handle the avocado. Here’s how to achieve that perfect creaminess:
- Use a ripe avocado, which will be soft and easier to mash. Check if it yields slightly when pressed.
- When mashing the avocado with a fork or potato masher, aim for a creamy but chunky mixture; this adds texture!
- Mix it right after you mash to prevent browning. Add lime juice quickly for freshness and flavor.
By following these tips, you’ll have a smooth, delicious chicken salad without the need for mayonnaise!
Avocado Chicken Salad (High Protein, No Mayo)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1 large ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious avocado chicken salad will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to whip up, making it a perfect choice for a busy lunch or a nutritious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by gathering a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded chicken breast into the bowl. This will be the base of your salad and gives it a good protein boost!
2. Mash the Avocado:
Next, cut the ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out into the bowl with the chicken. Using a fork or potato masher, gently mash the avocado until it’s creamy but still has some chunks. This will help give the salad a nice texture!
3. Mix in the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Add the finely chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro to the bowl. These ingredients will add freshness and crunch to your salad.
4. Season it Up:
Pour in the fresh lime juice to add brightness. Then season the mixture with garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. These spices will enhance the flavors and make every bite delicious!
5. Combine Everything:
Take a spoon and mix all the ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined. Make sure the avocado coats the chicken and veggies nicely.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste test! If you feel it needs a bit more flavor, feel free to add extra salt, pepper, or lime juice according to your liking.
7. Serve or Chill:
Enjoy your salad immediately, or, if you prefer, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together wonderfully!
Enjoy this creamy, protein-packed chicken salad perfect for a light lunch or snack!
Can I Use Canned Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a great time-saver. Just drain it and shred it with a fork before mixing it with the other ingredients. It works well in this salad, making it even quicker to prepare.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, and you might want to add a splash of lime juice to refresh the flavor!
Can I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
Yes! This salad is already dairy-free since it relies on avocado for creaminess instead of dairy products. You’re all set to enjoy a creamy texture without any dairy!
What Can I Serve with Avocado Chicken Salad?
This salad is versatile! You can serve it on whole grain toast, in a wrap, or alongside fresh greens. It’s also delicious with tortilla chips or crackers for a light meal or snack.