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Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe with Zesty Lime Dressing

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A quick and easy creamy avocado chicken salad with a bright, zesty lime dressing that balances richness and freshness perfectly. Ideal for a light lunch, picnic, or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped (about 300g / 10.5 oz)
  • 2 medium ripe avocados, peeled and diced
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 2 medium limes)
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (120 ml), full-fat preferred
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional add-ins: diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, toasted nuts like pepitas

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Poach or roast about 2 chicken breasts until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Let cool and chop or shred into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, use rotisserie chicken.
  2. Dice the avocados: Cut 2 ripe avocados in half, remove pits, and dice the flesh into chunks, being gentle to avoid mashing unless a creamier texture is desired.
  3. Chop the veggies: Finely dice 2 tablespoons of red onion and roughly chop 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro leaves. Mince 1 garlic clove.
  4. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Combine salad ingredients: In a mixing bowl, gently toss the chicken, avocado, red onion, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over and fold carefully to keep avocado chunky but coated.
  6. Final adjustments: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed. Stir in optional add-ins like diced cucumber or toasted pepitas for extra crunch.
  7. Chill before serving: Let the salad rest in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld (optional).

Notes

Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushy texture. Balance lime juice carefully to avoid overpowering the salad. Fold gently to keep avocado chunks intact. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. For dairy-free, substitute yogurt and mayo with vegan alternatives. Store dressing and chicken separately from avocado to prevent browning. Chill salad before serving for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: avocado chicken salad, creamy chicken salad, lime dressing, healthy chicken salad, easy chicken salad, quick lunch, low-carb salad

Find it online: https://jollyfork.com/creamy-avocado-chicken-salad-recipe-with-zesty-lime-dressing-easy-and-perfect/