A Refreshing Twist: Avocado Chicken Salad

By Dr. Cindy Tanzar

Chicken salad is a classic favorite that has crowned countless lunch tables over the years. However, if you’re looking to shake things up while keeping it nutritious, this Avocado Chicken Salad is the perfect solution! Inspired by one of our valued clients at Genesis Health Solutions, this recipe substitutes traditional mayonnaise with creamy avocado, resulting in a dish that is not only delicious but also rich in healthy fats.

It’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even a meal prep option for the week. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to elevate your chicken salad experience!

Why This Chicken Salad is a Must-Try

• Avocado Magic: By replacing mayonnaise with avocado, you not only avoid potentially unhealthy ingredients often found in store-bought versions, but you also enhance the dish with a creamy texture and a boost of nutrients.
• Versatile Ingredients: This salad is highly customizable! With a variety of veggies and flavors, you can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or whatever you have on hand.
• Healthy & Satisfying: Packed with protein from the chicken and wholesome vegetables, this salad will keep you feeling full and nourished without any guilt.

Recipe Breakdown

Servings: 1

Ingredients:

• 3 oz. cooked chicken breasts, diced or shredded
• 1/2 of a small avocado or 1/4 of a large avocado
• 1 tsp. lemon juice
• Pink Himalayan salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup zucchini or yellow squash, diced
• 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
• A sprinkle of sweet or red onion (to taste, can replace other vegetables)
• 1 cup kale, romaine lettuce, or spring mix (to serve)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Avocado Mixture: In a medium bowl, mash the avocado with a fork. Add the lemon juice, pink Himalayan salt, and freshly-ground pepper, mixing until creamy and well-combined.
2. Add Chicken and Vegetables: Stir in the diced or shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and any additional vegetables you’ve chosen (celery, zucchini, cucumber, and onion). Ensure everything is well-coated with the avocado mixture.
3. Create the Base: In a separate bowl, layer your kale or desired lettuce mix with the diced celery, zucchini, onion, and cucumber.
4. Assemble the Salad: Spoon the creamy chicken mixture onto the bed of greens. You can either serve it immediately or refrigerate it for a short time to let the flavors meld.

Final Thoughts

This Avocado Chicken Salad is not only simple and quick to make, but it also provides a tasty and nutritious alternative to traditional chicken salads. Whether enjoyed on its own, in a wrap, or served with whole-grain crackers, it’s sure to be a hit.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or herbs to make this dish uniquely yours. It’s a fantastic way to get more veggies into your meals while enjoying a classic dish with a modern twist. Enjoy every creamy, delightful bite!