If you’re on the hunt for a fresh, nutritious meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe is your new go-to. Whether you’re cooking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this vibrant salad combines creamy avocado, tender shredded chicken, and a burst of fresh herbs for a flavor-packed experience.
Not only does this salad taste amazing, but it’s also loaded with healthy fats, lean protein, and veggies that nourish your body and keep your energy up. Let’s dive right in and get you cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
- Simple and quick: Using rotisserie or baked chicken makes this recipe a breeze, perfect for busy days.
- Healthy ingredients: Avocados provide heart-healthy fats, while chicken and eggs add plenty of protein.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or add-ins like hard-boiled eggs.
- Perfect for any meal: Light enough for lunch but filling enough for dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or baked)
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
- 4 strips lean bacon or turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill, chives, or cilantro), chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (for extra protein)
Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe Step-by-Step
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Start by shredding your rotisserie or baked chicken into bite-sized pieces. This is the base of your salad and the main protein source.
2. Cook the Bacon
Cook your lean bacon or turkey bacon until crisp, then crumble into small pieces. The bacon adds a delicious smoky crunch that balances the creamy avocado.
3. Mix the Dressing
Whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This simple dressing brightens the salad and enhances all the fresh flavors.
4. Combine Everything
In a large bowl, gently toss the shredded chicken, diced avocado, corn, crumbled bacon, fresh herbs, and optional hard-boiled eggs.
5. Add the Dressing
Pour your lemon-olive oil dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Be careful not to mash the avocado you want those lovely chunks to stay intact!
6. Serve and Enjoy
Enjoy immediately for the freshest taste or chill for 30 minutes to let all the flavors meld beautifully.
Tips to Make Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
- Use ripe avocados: They should be soft but not mushy for the best texture.
- Customize your herbs: Dill offers a fresh, slightly tangy taste, while cilantro brings a bright, citrusy note.
- Add crunch: If you like, toss in some chopped celery or cucumber for extra crunch.
- Make it a wrap: Use this salad as a filling for a whole-grain wrap or sandwich for a portable lunch option.
Nutrition Highlights
This salad is a powerhouse of nutrition: healthy fats from avocado support brain and heart health, lean chicken and eggs provide muscle-building protein, and corn adds fiber and sweetness without excess calories. Plus, the olive oil and fresh lemon juice make a light dressing that’s both flavorful and good for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the salad without avocado and dressing, then add those right before serving to keep it fresh and prevent browning.
What can I use instead of bacon?
Try turkey bacon, smoked turkey, or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian crunch.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe is perfect for anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor or convenience. It’s fresh, creamy, and packed with protein everything you need to stay healthy and happy every day.
Give it a try, and I promise this recipe will become one of your favorites for quick, wholesome meals. Let me know how you like it!
Stay Healthy, Stay Happy! 🌱
If you want more easy, delicious recipes like this, subscribe to the newsletter or follow me on social ( facebook and Pinterest ) media. And if you try this salad, share your photos and tag me I’d love to see your creations!