Simple Chicken Avocado Salad Recipe (No Mayo) super healthy, packed with lean protein, healthy fat and delicious flavor! It makes a delicious quick lunch. Tossed with a homemade dressing made with fresh lime juice and cilantro, you will love this salad! Dairy-free, paleo, Whole30 and naturally gluten-free.
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- 💖Why we love chicken & avocado salad?
- 🛒 Ingredients for avocado and chicken salad:
- Equipment you need to make this no-mayo chicken salad:
- 🍽️ How to make this avocado chicken salad recipe:
- Tips on keeping the avocado green and delicious:
- How to serve low carb chicken salad:
- 🫙 Leftover and Storing Low-carb Chicken and Avocado Salad with Lime and Cilantro
- 📃 Substitutions & variations for chicken & avocado salad:
- ☑️ Lora's Tips for the Best Avocado Chicken Salad:
- ❓ FAQ'S
- Some other recipes you'll love:
- 📖 Recipe
- Chicken Avocado Salad
Originally published August 2021 and updated for content June 2024. Chicken Avocado Salad is what we are enjoying this summer! We love this recipe because it is healthy and really simple to make. Tossed with a homemade dressing made with fresh lime juice and cilantro, you will love this salad! Dairy-free, paleo, Whole30.
Whenever I'm in the mood for something light yet satisfying, I turn to my go-to chicken avocado salad recipe. Really healthy, there is no heavy mayo in this salad! It gets all its natural creaminess from ripe avocados. It's a simple dish packed with flavors and textures that never fails to please.
I do sometimes make this salad using grilled chicken and it adds a smoky depth to the salad, but when I'm pressed for time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic substitute that makes preparation a breeze. The key is to use boneless, skinless chicken breast, which keeps the salad low carb and high in protein.
In this salad, the creamy richness of avocado pairs wonderfully with the juicy chunks of chicken. I cube the avocados and toss them with freshly squeezed lime juice not only to add a zesty flavor but also to keep the avocado from browning.
I did mention that this is creamy, right? Creamy and absolutely no mayo in this recipe!
The chicken and avocado are the stars of this dish, and it also makes it a fulfilling centerpiece of any meal. Whether it's for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this chicken avocado salad is my go-to salad recipe as it's not only delicious, but also nutritious!
This avocado chicken salad isn't just about taste; it's also incredibly versatile. You can tweak the basic chicken salad recipe by adding ingredients like crunchy cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or a handful of mixed greens to enhance the texture and increase the nutritional value.
Each ingredient complements the others, with the lime juice dressing binding all the flavors together into a delightful harmony. Every bite offers a balance of creamy avocado and tender chicken, making it a perennial favorite in my kitchen.
So easy to make, this chicken salad is super quick to put together and is packed flavor. When the temperatures are soaring, you will be loving this naturally creamy and healthy low-carb salad.
💖Why we love chicken & avocado salad?
- Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with healthy fats from the avocado and high-quality protein from the chicken, it's nutritious and fulfilling.
- Quick and Easy: Whether you're using grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken, this salad comes together in no time, especially handy on busy days.
- Flavorful: The simple dressing of lime juice not only keeps the salad low carb but also adds a fresh, citrusy brightness that elevates the other ingredients.
- Versatility: Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with other dishes, it can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead for a hassle-free meal that's ready when you are, keeping well in the fridge for quick assembly.
If you like this recipe you might like my chicken spiedini and my chicken shawarma salad.
It basically was an inspiration by putting together what I had on hand. I had nice and ripe avocados, red onions, fresh cilantro, juicy limes, and also, the most gorgeous blackberries. The idea was to add a little bit of sweetness to this fresh summer salad.
If you are cutting back on carbs, this salad is delicious just the way it is straight out of the bowl. Or if you have pita on hand, you can stuff it inside. Another idea is to make a sandwich with your favorite multi-seed bread (that’s what we did!). The burst of fresh lime juice in the homemade dressing, cilantro and the natural sweetness from the juicy blackberries makes this salad simply irresistible!
Super fresh and so flavorful, I could eat this salad every day!
🛒 Ingredients for avocado and chicken salad:
- Salad Ingredients:
- Shredded chicken - Homemade roasted or rotisserie chicken both work well for flavor and convenience. Even leftover cooked up chicken breasts would work great!
- Avocados - Adds creamy texture and healthy fats to enrich the salad.
- English cucumber - Offers a crisp, fresh contrast to the other textures in the salad.
- Red onion (or use scallion or shallots) - Brings a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that complements the creamy and savory elements.
- Cilantro (or use dill or parsley) - Infuses the salad with a burst of fresh, herby flavor. Cilantro adds a distinctive brightness, while dill or parsley can provide a milder, more subtle taste. Not everyone loves cilantro, so use dill or parsley, if you prefer.
- Dressing Ingredients:
- Freshly squeezed lime juice or lemon - Acts as an acidic component to brighten and enhance the overall flavors of the salad.
- Extra-virgin olive oil or a mild flavored oil - I always use a very good quality extra-virgin olive oil as the flavor is so much better.
- Sea salt - Essential for seasoning, it highlights all the other flavors in the salad. You could also use kosher salt if that's what you have on hand.
- Freshly ground black pepper - Adds a slight kick and depth, balancing the freshness of the ingredients.
Equipment you need to make this no-mayo chicken salad:
- Cutting board: Bamboo is always nice, but any sort of cutting board you have will work.
- Sharp knife: A really sharp knife makes sure all the ingredients are cute evenly.
- Large bowl: A big enough bowl is needed to mix and serve the salad.
🍽️ How to make this avocado chicken salad recipe:
The only thing to plan for when making this salad is having the most ripe, yet not too mushy avocados. I bought some avocados a couple days ago and left them on the counter. When I was ready to make the salad I made sure they felt a little soft but not mushy.
So keep that in mind if you can’t find the perfect avocados at your local market, keep your avocados on the counter and check them when you’re ready to make the salad.
As for the chicken, mom made two lovely roasted chickens at the beginning of the week and the goal was to use some of the chicken breasts shredded in a salad. A rotisserie chicken would work great!
When you're ready to make the salad gather up all your ingredients.
If you're using your own roasted chicken or rotisserie, shred up the chicken (or cut it up into bite sized pieces) and add to your bowl.
Add in the diced avocados, red onions, cucumbers, salt, pepper, chopped up cilantro and your fresh lime and olive oil dressing. Stir it all together to combine. You could even stir it until the avocado breaks down, which would make the salad even more creamy.
Tips on keeping the avocado green and delicious:
- The first and most important tip is to not cut the avocado until you’re ready to eat the salad.
- As soon as you cut the avocado into pieces, squeeze some fresh lemon juice all over them.
- If you’re using less avocado than the recipes calls for, be sure to keep the pit in the half you’re not using and keep it in the fridge wrapped tightly with plastic wrap. I would use up the rest of the avocado the next day.
How to serve low carb chicken salad:
This chicken recipe goes nicely with a side dish of pasta.
There are different ways to enjoy this salad:
- Lettuce wraps: So if staying totally low-carb, this is the easiest way to serve it.
- Tomato: Take some ripe summer tomatoes and hollow them out. Serve the chicken salad right in the tomatoes.
- Tortillas: There are some really nice low-carb tortillas or if you’re not low-carb, use your favorite regular tortilla.
- Pita: If you’re not low-carb, stuff it in your favorite pita bread.
- As is: Yes, do what I usually do and eat it right out of the bowl!
🫙 Leftover and Storing Low-carb Chicken and Avocado Salad with Lime and Cilantro
- Leftovers: Any leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge. The avocado doesn't keep very long once it's cut up and combined with other ingredients. I have enjoyed leftovers the next day for lunch, but I didn't keep the salad more than one day. It's truly best and devoured when it's just made.
- Make ahead: If you need to prep this ahead of time, you could prep everything the night or two nights before. Add in the avocado just before you're about to serve it or before packing it up for lunch that day (if you're making it for a lunch meal prep).
📃 Substitutions & variations for chicken & avocado salad:
These are just some ideas and honestly, any thing could work. Whatever you have on hand and what inspires you. Mom brought over two containers of gorgeous blackberries, so one container got tossed on top of the salad.
Otherwise, I would have used blueberries. The dressing and the cilantro really brings it all together. I know some people do not like cilantro…if that’s the case, you could use fresh parsley or dill in its place.
Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- spinach
- green or red peppers
- scallions
- shallots
- radishes
- sugar snap peas
- shredded carrots
- roasted corn
- cherry tomatoes
- olives
- peaches
- mangos
- papaya
- blueberries
- strawberries
☑️ Lora's Tips for the Best Avocado Chicken Salad:
- Use Good Chicken: Use organic (my preference)or high-quality rotisserie chicken for better flavor and texture. If you’re cooking your own chicken, be sure to season well.
- Ripen Your Avocados: Make sure your avocados are ripe so it’s creamy and not grainy or overly firm when cooked. They should give with the faintest touch of gentle pressure but not be mushy.
- Dice Everything Evenly: Cut the cucumber, avocados and onions to a similar dice size so the salad looks even and pretty, and that you get a little of everything in every bite.
- Fresh Herbs: I know some love cilantro, and I know others would rather use dill or parsley. I like it when everything stands out on its own and it’s easy to mix into a light bite of everything, so personally I choose cilantro or mix in one or two of my favorite herbs.
- Mix the Dressing to Taste: Start with the lower end of the dressing measurements and adjust up depending on how you like it. Balance the amount of acidity with the amount of oil and seasoning.
- Add Most of the Dressing to Taste and Serve: Don’t dress the salad too far in advance or the cucumber will run and the salad will get soggy.
- Chill Things: Before you even start making the salad, make sure you chill the cucumber, onions, and even the chicken if you’re cooking that at home (or buy a prepared version at your deli counter). It’s refreshing on a warm day!
- Cube the Avocado in the Skin: With a big knife, cut the avocado in half, lengthwise from top to bottom. Remove the pit. Put the avocado skin on the plate and cut the avocado into little chunks still in the avocado skin. Using a small spoon, scoop all the avocado out of the skin to help it keep its shape. Add avocado last so it doesn’t fall apart on you while you mix everything together.
- Season Well: Be sure to season it well, or it will be missing the flavor that the salt gives to all the components. If you like the way it tastes with less salt, adjust to your liking. But the avocado and chicken can be bland without a touch of salt.
- Serve Fresh: The salad will keep in the fridge for about a day, covered tightly. It’s best eaten within a day or so, as the textures are at their best when freshly made.
❓ FAQ'S
How to give chicken salad more flavor?
- Marinate the Chicken: Before cooking, marinate the chicken in herbs, spices, or citrus to infuse more flavor.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or dill.
- Use Bold Dressings: Consider dressings with strong flavors like pesto, curry, or a tangy vinaigrette.
- Include a Variety of Textures: Add nuts for crunch, dried fruits for sweetness, or pickled vegetables for tang.
How can you make chicken and avocado salad without cilantro?
If you happen to have taste buds that think cilantro tastes like soap, you'll have to sub it out. In addition or in place of the red onion, you could add in scallions. Be sure to also add in some fresh herbs like dill and parsley.
How many calories are in chicken and avocado salad?
The calorie content can vary, but a typical serving of chicken and avocado salad might range from 300 to 500 calories, depending on the ingredients and portion size. That's making a calculation estimate including the vegetables, a bit of olive oil, and lean chicken breast.
What is avocado salad made of?
Avocado salad typically includes cubed or sliced avocados, mixed greens or lettuce, tomato, cucumber, onion, and a dressing of lemon juice or vinegar and olive oil. It can also include herbs, nuts, or cheese. This particular avocado salad adds chicken in as a protein.
Is chicken breast and salad a healthy meal?
Yes, a meal consisting of chicken breast and salad is generally healthy. Chicken breast provides lean protein, while a salad made of mixed greens offers fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Using a light dressing can keep the meal low in calories but high in nutrients.
Can I use canned chicken for avocado salad?
Yes, you can definitely use canned chicken for avocado salad. It's a convenient and quick option that works well when you're short on time or don't have fresh chicken available.
Can you make this salad with rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you sure can! Costco has a really great prices rotisserie chicken and I've made it using their chicken. Any rotisserie chicken will work great in this recipe and makes it even more convenient!
Can you put avocado in chicken salad?
Absolutely! Avocado can be used in chicken salad either as a substitute for mayonnaise, providing creaminess and healthy fats, or simply as an additional ingredient for its flavor and texture benefits, the way this recipe uses it.
Can you make chicken salad with avocado?
Yes, you can make chicken salad with avocado. Using avocado as a binder instead of mayo or in addition to it adds creaminess and a nutritional boost. The salad will taste even better if it's also made with freshly squeezed lime juice, salt, pepper, and other seasonings to enhance the flavor.
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📖 Recipe
Chicken Avocado Salad
Equipment
Ingredients
Salad:
- 2 cups shredded chicken I used our homemade roasted chicken (rotisserie would work fine)
- 2 avocados cubed
- 1 English cucumber diced
- ½ red onion diced (or use scallion or shallots)
- ¼ cup cilantro finely chopped (or use dill or parsley)
Dressing:
- 4 Tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice or lemon
- 2 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or a mild flavored oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients together in a medium bowl.
- Add dressing ingredients to a mason jar and shake well (or add to a bowl and whisk together).
- Check the flavoring and add more lime juice, or salt and pepper, if needed. You could also add a bit more of fresh herbs if you feel it needs something more. If you have cilantro and dill, you could add a combo of the both of them.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to mingle before serving. You could also serve immediately.
Nutrition Disclaimer
Please keep in mind that the nutritional information presented below is an approximation and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
Notes
- Chicken: We used our homemade roasted chicken, but you could use rotisserie chicken, or 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked and diced).
- Dressing: Comes together so easily. It's key to use fresh lime juice (or lemon)and if you're not following Whole30, add a bit of honey or coconut sugar to sweeten it a little. You could also add a touch of red pepper flakes to spice it up a little.
- To store: the avocado will brown, so press plastic wrap tightly over the salad and push it down to make sure it's sealed. Store in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.
Kahinur says
i needed something quick and easy and delicious, i think this is it, thanks
Lora says
Hi Kahinur-Great! Thank you for taking the time to let us know you enjoyed it!!
annie says
Couldn't let another day go by without telling you how much I love your chicken avocado salad. It's really very easy to make and so delicious!