Summer Avocado Chicken Salad

There’s something about summer that calls for light, refreshing, and flavor-packed meals. Enter the Summer Avocado Chicken Salad—an irresistibly creamy, protein-rich dish that embodies everything we love about warm-weather dining. With juicy shredded chicken, velvety avocado, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this salad is the ultimate combination of nourishment and indulgence. It’s perfect for picnics, backyard barbecues, meal prepping, or just a quick, satisfying lunch on a hot day. One bite and you’ll understand why this salad is a favorite among food lovers—it’s packed with vibrant flavors, rich textures, and a refreshing finish that makes every forkful a delight.

This Summer Avocado Chicken Salad is a game-changer in the world of salads. If you love creamy, satisfying meals that come together effortlessly, this recipe is for you. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and healthy fats, making it both nutritious and incredibly delicious. Plus, there’s no mayo in this salad—the avocado brings all the creaminess you need! This means it’s not only healthier but also dairy-free. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a quick, no-fuss meal, this salad will impress with its fresh flavors and versatility.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 2 ripe avocados, mashed
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup almonds or sunflower seeds (optional, for crunch)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky depth)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step-1 Prepare the Chicken:
If you haven’t already, cook your chicken breast by boiling, baking, or using a rotisserie chicken for convenience. Shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.

Step-2 Mash the Avocados:
In a large bowl, mash the ripe avocados with a fork until smooth yet slightly chunky. This will act as the creamy base for the salad.

Step-3 Chop the Vegetables:
Finely dice the red onion, slice the green onions, halve the cherry tomatoes, and dice the cucumber. Chop the fresh cilantro as well.

Step-4 Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Step-5 Combine Everything:
Add the shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, and dressing to the bowl with mashed avocado. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the avocado coats all ingredients evenly.

Step-6 Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Serve immediately or let it chill for 10–15 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture. If they’re too firm, let them ripen for a day or two before making this salad.
• Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even quicker—just shred and mix!
• Adjust seasoning to taste—some might prefer more lime juice for extra tang or an extra pinch of salt.
• Chill the salad for 15–30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Add extra crunch with nuts, seeds, or even crushed tortilla chips for a fun texture.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Mediterranean Twist: Swap the lime juice for lemon and add olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Tropical Vibes: Include diced mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast.
• Protein Boost: Add a boiled egg or a handful of cooked quinoa for extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Sandwich or Wrap: Stuff into whole wheat wraps, pita pockets, or between slices of toasted sourdough.
• On Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb option, serve in crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves.
• With Crackers or Chips: Serve as a dip with crunchy tortilla chips or whole-grain crackers.
• Over Greens: Turn it into a loaded salad by serving it over mixed greens or spinach.

Storage Tips

• Since avocado oxidizes quickly, this salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, if storing, place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the salad before refrigerating to prevent browning.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• If meal prepping, store the ingredients separately and mix them just before serving for maximum freshness.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a dish that’s fresh, creamy, and bursting with summer flavors, this Summer Avocado Chicken Salad is the perfect pick. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with healthy ingredients that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you enjoy it in a sandwich, on a bed of greens, or as a dip, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit. So go ahead, grab those avocados and give this recipe a try—you’re going to love every delicious bite!

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23 Irresistible Chicken Recipes for Dinner – Light, Healthy, and Delicious