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This Avocado Chicken Salad recipe shines as a delicious, nutritious, and effortless meal option perfect for busy weekdays or meal prep.
Combining creamy avocado with lean, high-protein chicken breast creates a balanced dish rich in healthy fats and muscle-supporting protein.
The addition of fresh corn and crisp bacon provides satisfying texture contrasts, while the simple lemon dressing adds brightness without overpowering the natural flavors.
With 26 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per serving, this salad supports satiety and digestion, making it ideal for anyone seeking a wholesome, low-carb, nutrient-dense meal.
The use of extra virgin olive oil delivers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, enhancing the salad’s health appeal.
This recipe’s ease and flexibility—thanks to rotisserie or leftover chicken and optional hard-boiled eggs—make it a smart go-to for everyday cooking that never feels repetitive.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Large Mixing Bowl
Essential for combining all ingredients effortlessly.
A sturdy, spacious bowl ensures even tossing and easy mixing, making it a versatile staple for salads, doughs, and marinating.
Sharp Chef’s Knife
Perfect for precise chopping of chicken, avocado, and herbs.
A high-quality chef’s knife increases efficiency and safety in the kitchen, making prep faster and more enjoyable.
Citrus Juicer
Extracts maximum juice from lemons without seeds or pulp, enhancing the freshness and flavor of the dressing.
This tool is invaluable for dressings, cocktails, and adding zing to any dish.
Measuring Spoons
Ensure accurate seasoning and dressing balance, critical for consistent taste every time.
Durable measuring spoons simplify portion control and recipe execution.
Salad Servers or Tongs
Make tossing and serving the salad neat and convenient.
These tools are versatile for salads, pasta, and buffet-style meals.
Chicken Avocado Salad
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
- 1 Citrus Juicer
- Measuring Spoons (set including 1 tsp and 1 Tbsp)
- Salad Servers or Tongs
Ingredients
- 2 large cooked chicken breasts shredded or chopped
- 2 ripe avocados peeled, pitted, and cut into chunks
- 1 cup cooked corn kernels preferably fresh from one cob
- 6 oz lean bacon cooked until crisp and chopped
- ¼ cup fresh chives or green onions finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs peeled and quartered (optional)
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt or to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by shredding or dicing your pre-cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl to serve as the salad base.
- Add Avocado and Corn: Gently fold in the avocado chunks and the cup of cooked corn kernels. Fresh corn adds natural sweetness and a pop of texture that complements the creamy avocado.
- Incorporate Bacon and Herbs: Sprinkle in the chopped crispy bacon along with the fresh chives (or green onions) and dill. These ingredients bring a savory crunch and herbaceous brightness to the salad.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper until well emulsified.
- Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated, taking care not to mash the avocado.
- Add Optional Eggs and Serve: If using, arrange the quartered hard-boiled eggs on top or gently mix them in. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Chicken Options: For convenience, rotisserie chicken works perfectly here. Alternatively, baked or canned chicken (well drained) can be used to save time.
- Healthier Bacon Swap: Try uncured turkey bacon as a leaner alternative—it offers the same smoky flavor with less fat.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Combine all salad components except the avocado and eggs in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add avocado and eggs just before serving to keep freshness.
- Storage Advice: To minimize avocado browning in leftovers, press plastic wrap directly onto the salad surface before refrigerating. Consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste.
Chef’s Secrets for Flavorful Success
To get the most out of this Avocado Chicken Salad, start with quality ingredients—using fresh, ripe avocados and well-cooked chicken really elevates the flavors.
If using leftover or rotisserie chicken, be sure to shred it finely so every bite has a good balance of chicken and creamy avocado.
When preparing the dressing, whisk the lemon juice and olive oil thoroughly to create a light, tangy emulsion that evenly coats the salad.
Adding fresh herbs like dill and chives not only boosts flavor but adds a fragrant freshness that balances the richness of avocado and bacon.
For extra texture, crisp your bacon well and consider roasting or grilling the corn for a subtle smoky note.
Lastly, handle the avocado gently when mixing to keep its creamy texture intact—this will make your salad look and taste irresistibly fresh.
Creative Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This salad is wonderfully versatile—enjoy it as a standalone light lunch or as a side dish to grilled meats, seafood, or even hearty sandwiches.
For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. The lemon dressing makes it an excellent companion to Mediterranean or Mexican-inspired dishes.
You can also stuff the salad into whole-grain pita pockets or serve it over mixed greens for a satisfying, low-carb meal.
Garnishing with extra fresh herbs or a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds can add delightful texture and flavor.
For a brunch twist, pair it with crusty bread and a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Smart Storage Tips for Freshness
To keep your Avocado Chicken Salad tasting fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
Because avocado browns quickly when exposed to air, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad to minimize oxidation.
If you plan to make the salad ahead of time, prepare all ingredients except for the avocado and eggs, then combine them right before serving to maintain vibrant color and texture.
For best results, avoid freezing this salad as the avocado and dressing may separate and lose their appealing texture upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Answered
1. Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?
Yes! Well-drained canned chicken works well and can save time. Just be sure to rinse it briefly and drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could water down the salad.
2. How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
To slow browning, add avocado just before serving and toss gently with lemon juice-based dressing. Also, cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap pressed against the salad surface.
3. Is there a substitute for bacon?
Absolutely! Uncured turkey bacon or even smoked turkey slices offer a leaner alternative while maintaining a similar smoky flavor.
4. Can this salad be made vegan or vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, omit bacon and chicken, then add chickpeas or grilled tofu for protein. Replace eggs with avocado slices or nuts for added richness.
5. How long does this salad keep in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed on top, it stays fresh for up to 3-4 days. After that, avocado texture and flavor may decline.
This recipe is inspired by natashaskitchen and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.