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A vibrant bowl of avocado chicken salad, featuring creamy avocado chunks, shredded chicken, and fresh greens, ready to eat.

Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad

A vibrant and refreshing chicken salad featuring tender shredded chicken, creamy avocado, crisp celery, and a zesty lime dressing, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Salad
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken Breast shredded (from about 2 medium breasts)
  • 2 large Avocados ripe, diced
  • 2 stalks Celery finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion finely diced
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro chopped
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 2 tbsp Lime Juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper freshly ground, or to taste

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife
  • Fork
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring Cups
  • Whisk

Method
 

Prepare Ingredients
  1. If using raw chicken breasts, cook them by poaching, baking, or pan-frying until fully cooked. Let cool completely, then shred them using two forks or your hands. Set aside.
  2. Dice the celery, finely dice the red onion, and chop the fresh cilantro.
  3. Halve, pit, and scoop the flesh from the ripe avocados into a large mixing bowl. Lightly mash the avocado with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a small separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, freshly squeezed lime juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined and smooth.
Assemble the Salad
  1. Add the shredded cooked chicken, diced celery, finely diced red onion, and chopped cilantro to the large bowl with the mashed avocado.
  2. Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the chicken and avocado mixture.
  3. Gently fold all the ingredients together using a spatula or spoon until everything is thoroughly combined and coated. Be careful not to over-mix, to maintain some avocado texture.
  4. Taste the avocado chicken salad and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, or a touch more lime juice) if necessary.
Serve
  1. Serve immediately on lettuce cups, in sandwiches, with crackers, or as a side dish. For best flavor and texture, it's recommended to enjoy fresh.

Notes

This avocado chicken salad is best served fresh. If preparing ahead, it's recommended to add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.