Introduction
Avocado Chicken Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the creaminess of avocado with tender shredded chicken. This simple recipe from EpicureanNest is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Perfect for a light lunch or as a filling in sandwiches and wraps, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded or chopped
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup corn (roasted or canned)
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4–6
Instructions
1. **Prep the Chicken:** Cook the chicken breasts by poaching, grilling, or baking. Once cooled, shred or dice them into bite-sized pieces. For a quicker option, use a rotisserie chicken.
2. **Prepare the Avocados:** Slice the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a large bowl. Dice into chunks or gently mash for a creamier texture. Add a bit of lime juice to prevent browning.
3. **Mix the Salad:** In the bowl with the avocados, add the shredded chicken, corn, red onion, and chopped herbs. Drizzle with olive oil and the remaining lime juice. Season with salt and pepper. Gently fold the ingredients together to ensure the avocado coats the other components evenly without breaking down completely.
4. **Chill and Serve:** Serve the salad immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy it atop greens, in a sandwich, or wrapped in butter lettuce for a light and refreshing meal.
Helpful Tips
– Use ripe but firm avocados to maintain a desirable texture.
– You can substitute shredded turkey or lamb for chicken if preferred.
– Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for added heat.
– A splash of orange juice or a pinch of zest can elevate the citrus notes.
– Include chopped nuts like almonds or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
Notes
Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prep the Chicken
Cook the chicken breasts by poaching, grilling, or baking. Once cooled, shred or dice them into bite-sized pieces. For a quicker option, use a rotisserie chicken.
Prepare the Avocados
Slice the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a large bowl. Dice into chunks or gently mash for a creamier texture. Add a bit of lime juice to prevent browning.
Mix the Salad
In the bowl with avocados, add the shredded chicken, corn, red onion, and chopped herbs. Drizzle with olive oil and the remaining lime juice. Season with salt and pepper. Gently fold the ingredients together to ensure the avocado coats the other components evenly without breaking down completely.
Chill and Serve
Serve the salad immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy it atop greens, in a sandwich, or wrapped in butter lettuce for a light and refreshing meal.
Notes
Avocado Ripeness
Use ripe but firm avocados to maintain a desirable texture.
Protein Variety
You can substitute shredded turkey or lamb for chicken if preferred.
Add Spice
Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for added heat.
Enhance Citrus Flavor
A splash of orange juice or a pinch of zest can elevate the citrus notes.
Add Crunch
Include chopped nuts like almonds or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
Storage
Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Prevent Browning
To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad.
Cook techniques
Poaching Chicken
To poach chicken, place the chicken breasts in a pot and cover them with water or broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cook for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Remove and let cool before shredding.
Grilling Chicken
To grill chicken, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Grill for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Allow to rest and then shred.
Baking Chicken
To bake chicken, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let cool before shredding.
Preparing Avocados
To prepare avocados, slice them in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Dice or mash gently, and add lime juice to prevent browning.
Mixing Ingredients
When mixing salad ingredients, use a gentle folding motion to combine them without mashing the avocado too much. This will maintain a pleasant texture in the salad.
Chilling the Salad
For optimal flavor melding, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to marinate in the lime juice and seasoning.
FAQ
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken breasts?
Yes, canned chicken can be a convenient substitute; just drain it well and shred before use.
How long will the avocado chicken salad last in the fridge?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
What can I use instead of lime juice?
If you don’t have lime juice, lemon juice is a great alternative and will provide a similar acidity.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it can be made in advance, but it’s recommended to keep the avocados separate until ready to serve to prevent browning.
Conclusion
This Avocado Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, offering a healthy yet satisfying meal option. Its versatility allows for easy customization, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed fresh or as a make-ahead dish, this salad is perfect for warm weather or any occasion requiring a refreshing touch.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Southwest Chicken Salad
Combine the avocado chicken salad with black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn tortilla strips, drizzled with a cilantro-lime dressing for a Southwest twist.
Tropical Mango Chicken Salad
Add diced mango and shredded coconut to the avocado chicken salad for a tropical flavor. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra zest.
Greek Chicken Avocado Salad
Incorporate chopped cucumbers, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of oregano to transform the salad into a Greek-inspired dish.
Curried Chicken Salad
Mix curry powder and chopped apples or raisins into the avocado chicken salad for a unique, spiced flavor profile that’s deliciously comforting.
Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad
Combine sesame oil, diced red bell peppers, and chopped green onions with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired version of the salad. Serve with a soy sauce vinaigrette.
