Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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Looking for a quick, vibrant dish that screams fresh? This Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad is your answer. It's perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, especially when you want something that feels both healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients for Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad

Chicken: This provides the protein punch and can be from a leftover roast, grilled, or poached chicken. Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats, balancing the tangy lime. Red onion: Offers a sharp, crisp contrast. Cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of sweetness that complement the other flavors. Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal note. Lime juice: The zesty heart of the dressing, bringing all ingredients together. Olive oil: A light touch to enhance the dressing. Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Mixed salad greens: The base that ties everything together, offering a refreshing crunch.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid a mushy salad.
  • For a little extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
  • If you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley works as a great substitute.
  • To save time, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is delightful on its own, but for a heartier meal, try serving it with a side of crusty bread. If you're in the mood for a little extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds over the top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the components in advance, but combine the avocado and dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.
What if I don't have fresh lime?
You can substitute with lemon juice, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, but note that the avocado may brown.

Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro. Use a gentle hand when mixing to keep the avocado in nice chunks.

Next, make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure it's well combined so the flavors meld beautifully.

Pour the dressing over your chicken and avocado mix. Toss everything together gently. You want everything nicely coated but not mushy.

Arrange your mixed salad greens on a serving platter or individual plates. This makes for a lovely presentation and ensures everyone gets a good serving of greens.

Spoon the chicken and avocado mixture over the greens. Serve it up right away to enjoy the fresh flavors at their best.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to whip up in under 20 minutes.
  • Packed with fresh, zesty flavors.
  • A great way to use leftover chicken.
  • Avocado adds a creamy texture without heavy dressings.
  • Perfect for meal prep or a quick meal.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 ripe avocado, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, juiced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
6 cups mixed salad greens

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken and avocado mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Arrange the mixed salad greens on a serving platter or individual plates.
5. Top the greens with the chicken and avocado mixture.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing salad.

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