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This fresh take on chicken salad blends ripe avocados with tender chicken breast and crisp vegetables. The result is a protein-rich, nutritious meal that's perfect for lunches or light dinners - no mayonnaise needed.
What makes this chicken salad special is how the creamy avocado perfectly complements the lean protein. Each bite offers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.
Key Ingredients
- Avocados: Choose ones that yield slightly to pressure
- Chicken breast: Pre-cooked or rotisserie works well
- Fresh vegetables: For texture and crunch
- Lime juice: Helps maintain color
- Cilantro: For fresh herbal notes
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Method
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked and cooled. Dice into bite-sized pieces. Season well. Keep covered until needed.
- Prepare the Avocado:
- Select ripe fruit. Remove pit. Mash consistency. Add lime juice. Season to taste.
- Add Vegetables:
- Chop uniformly. Combine gently. Mix thoroughly. Test seasoning.
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Temperature Tips
Temperature control is essential for this recipe. Keep chicken and vegetables chilled until mixing. Add room temperature avocado just before serving for best results and food safety.
Advance Preparation
Components can be prepped ahead separately. Dice chicken and vegetables and store covered in the refrigerator. Prepare avocado mixture just before assembling to maintain freshness.
Storage Guidelines
Store completed salad with plastic wrap pressed directly on surface. Keep refrigerated and use within 24 hours. For best results, store components separately and combine when serving.
Serving Ideas
This versatile dish can be served multiple ways:
- On a bed of fresh greens
- In crisp lettuce wraps
- As a sandwich filling
- Stuffed in fresh tomatoes
Recipe Variations
Try these tested additions:
- Crisp apple pieces
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Fresh herbs like basil
- A spoonful of Greek yogurt
Common Solutions
For unripe avocados, ripen in a paper bag with a banana. If mixture seems dry, incorporate additional lime juice or Greek yogurt for moisture.
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This protein-rich avocado chicken salad delivers fresh flavor and satisfying texture in every bite. The combination creates an ideal healthy meal option that's both nutritious and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does the salad stay fresh?
- It’s best eaten within a day, but lime juice can help keep the avocado looking fresh.
- → Is rotisserie chicken a good substitute?
- Totally! Using rotisserie chicken cuts down on prep time and tastes delicious.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
- Serve it in wraps, over salad greens, inside an avocado shell, or on your favorite bread.
- → Can I prepare this salad in advance?
- For best taste, make it fresh, but you can chop the veggies and prep the chicken ahead.
- → What can I use instead of cilantro?
- Parsley or dill work well if you’re not a fan of cilantro.