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This creamy Avocado Chicken Salad blends buttery avocados with juicy chicken and fresh veggies for a filling, healthy meal. It's great for packed lunches or quick bites, giving you a new spin on old-school chicken salad without heavy mayo.
I've made this so many times I can't count, and it's now my lunch staple. The mix of protein-packed chicken with the good fats from avocado keeps my hunger at bay all day long.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Ripe avocados: They should give slightly when you press them
- Cooked chicken breast: Store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time
- Fresh vegetables: They add the perfect snap
- Fresh lime juice: Stops avocados from turning brown
- Fresh cilantro: Gives a pop of flavor
- Quality seasonings: Brings out natural flavors
Simple Cooking Process
- Chicken Preparation:
- Cook thoroughly. Let it cool. Cut into even chunks. Add some spices. Don't let it dry out.
- Avocado Handling:
- Make sure it's ripe. Take out the pit carefully. Smash to how you like it. Squeeze lime on it right away. Add salt bit by bit.
- Vegetable Integration:
- Cut everything the same size. Stir carefully. Spread them out well. Check the flavor. Try it and tweak.
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Cooling Techniques
I've learned through trial and error that keeping your stuff cold matters a ton. I stick the chicken and veggies in the fridge before mixing, then fold in room temp avocado right before eating. This stops the avocado from turning brown while keeping everything safe to eat.
Prep-Ahead Tips
While it tastes best fresh, you can get stuff ready early. I often chop chicken and veggies beforehand and keep them separate in the fridge. Just mash the avocado when you're about to eat so it stays green and smooth.
Keeping It Fresh
If you need to save some for later, push plastic wrap right onto the top to stop it from browning. Put it in a sealed container in the fridge and eat within 24 hours. If you want it to last longer, keep all parts separate and mix them when you're ready to eat.
Ways To Enjoy
This flexible salad works great in lots of ways:
- On top of leafy greens for something light
- Inside lettuce cups for fewer carbs
- Spread on grainy bread for a filling sandwich
- Stuffed in hollowed tomatoes for fancy serving
Make It Your Own
I've tried tons of tasty changes over time:
- Throw in diced apple for sweet crunch
- Mix with roasted nuts for extra texture
- Add fresh herbs like dill or basil
- Stir in some Greek yogurt for more protein
Quick Fixes
When your avocados aren't soft enough, put them in a paper bag with a banana to ripen faster. If your salad seems too dry, splash in extra lime juice or add a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
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This Avocado Chicken Salad has turned into my go-to healthy lunch. The mix of smooth avocado, soft chicken, and crunchy veggies makes for a filling meal that's both good for you and super tasty.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does it stay fresh?
- It’s best enjoyed the same day, but lime juice keeps avocado from browning for about 24 hours.
- → Can I use leftover chicken?
- Yep, leftover chicken or even rotisserie chicken works perfectly here!
- → What’s a fun serving idea?
- Spoon into wraps, over salad greens, on bread, or even inside an avocado half.
- → Can I prepare this beforehand?
- You can chop the chicken and veggies early, but wait to mix with avocado for ultimate freshness.
- → What can replace cilantro?
- If cilantro’s not your flavor, swap for dill or parsley for a fresh twist.