1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook and shred or dice the chicken if it’s not already cooked. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper.
- Dice the avocados and drizzle with a bit of lime juice to prevent browning.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely chop the red onion and cilantro.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
- Add the lime juice and mayonnaise (if using) to the bowl.
- Gently toss the ingredients until everything is well mixed and the avocado is slightly mashed, creating a creamy texture.
3. Season the Salad:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust lime juice or mayonnaise as needed for desired creaminess and tanginess.
4. Serve:
- Serve the avocado chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens or lettuce.
- Alternatively, use it as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Tips for Perfect Avocado Chicken Salad:
- Use ripe avocados: They should be slightly soft to the touch but not mushy.
- Fresh lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds the best flavor and prevents the avocado from browning.
- Adjust to taste: Feel free to add more lime juice, salt, or pepper according to your preference.
Variations:
- Spicy Avocado Chicken Salad: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Greek Avocado Chicken Salad: Add crumbled feta cheese, sliced black olives, and diced cucumber for a Greek twist.
- Mexican Avocado Chicken Salad: Add corn kernels, black beans, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a Mexican-inspired salad.
Conclusion
This Avocado Chicken Salad is a versatile and healthy dish that is perfect for any meal. With its combination of creamy avocado, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables, it’s both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or wrapped in lettuce for a delicious and wholesome meal. This easy-to-make salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!