Introduction
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Greece with this refreshing Avocado Chicken Salad. Packed with nutritious ingredients, including tender chicken breast, creamy avocado, and zesty Mediterranean touches, this salad is not just a meal but a vibrant celebration of healthful eating. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s easy to prepare and bursting with taste.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
– 1 large avocado, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– ½ cup cucumber, diced
– ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
– ⅓ cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
– ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
The Greek Avocado Chicken Salad is sure to become a go-to recipe for those seeking a quick, satisfying, and healthy meal option. Enjoy the bounty of flavors with every bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
– If using leftover cooked chicken, ensure it’s chopped or shredded into bite-sized pieces.
– If cooking fresh chicken, season with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of oregano. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden and cooked through. Let it cool slightly before chopping or shredding.
Prepare the Vegetables
– Dice the cucumber.
– Halve the cherry tomatoes.
– Thinly slice the red onion.
– Pit and halve the Kalamata olives.
Prepare the Avocado
– Dice the avocado into chunks. To prevent browning, slice the avocado just before assembling the salad.
Assemble the Salad
– In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, halved olives, diced avocado, and crumbled feta cheese.
Prepare the Dressing
– In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Dress the Salad
– Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl.
– Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the avocado pieces.
Serve
– Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary.
– Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
Chicken Options
– You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook chicken breasts specifically for this recipe.
Vegetable Variations
– Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
– This salad makes a great filling for pita bread or can be served on a bed of greens.
Storage
– The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. The avocado may brown slightly over time.
Cook Techniques
Shredding Chicken
To shred chicken breast, allow it to cool slightly after cooking. Use two forks to pull apart the meat into bite-sized pieces, ensuring a juicy texture.
Dicing Vegetables
When dicing vegetables such as avocado and cucumber, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even flavor distribution. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts and safety.
Preparing Kalamata Olives
If you have whole Kalamata olives, pit them first. To halve, use a sharp knife, and take care when applying pressure to avoid squishing.
Making Salad Dressing
To create a balanced salad dressing, combine oil, acid (like lemon juice), herbs, and seasoning in a bowl or jar. Whisk until emulsified for a smooth consistency.
Gently Tossing the Salad
When tossing the salad, use a gentle motion to mix ingredients without crushing delicate items like diced avocado. This helps maintain texture.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is an excellent option to save time and add flavor.
How can I prevent the avocado from browning?
Slice the avocado just before adding it to the salad, or use lemon juice on the avocado to help keep it fresh.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using marinated tofu or omit cheese entirely for a lighter salad.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days, but the avocado may brown over time.
Can I customize the ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute ingredients like bell peppers, chickpeas, or different types of olives based on your preference.
Conclusion
This Greek Avocado Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors, making it not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that can be served on its own or as a side, perfect for any meal. Enjoy the harmony of tastes while relishing the health benefits of avocados, lean chicken, and vibrant vegetables.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Combine cooked quinoa with diced bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and feta cheese. Dress with olive oil and lemon for a refreshing twist.
Chickpea and Avocado Salad
Mix canned chickpeas with diced avocado, red onion, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt for a hearty vegan option.
Greek Pita Sandwich
Stuff whole wheat pita pockets with grilled chicken, tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomato, and cucumber for a quick on-the-go meal rich in flavor.
Avocado and Egg Salad
Mash avocado and mix with boiled eggs, mustard, and herbs for a creamy, protein-packed sandwich filling or dip.
Caprese Avocado Toast
Top whole-grain toast with sliced avocado, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an Italian-inspired snack.
