If you crave meals that are both nourishing and irresistibly delicious, you’re going to fall in love with Chicken Avocado Salad. It’s a vibrant, creamy creation packed with tender chicken, luscious avocado, crisp veggies, and a bright, tangy dressing you can throw together in just ten minutes. Every forkful brings together the heartiness of chicken, the silkiness of avocado, and the crunch of fresh celery and red onion. Whether you serve it as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this salad never fails to leave you feeling refreshed and deeply satisfied.

Chicken Avocado Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pulling together this Chicken Avocado Salad couldn’t be easier, and every ingredient brings something wonderful to the table—whether it’s creaminess, crunch, or a burst of flavor. Simple, fresh, and easy to find, these items come together for a truly memorable salad you’ll make again and again.

Cooked chicken: Shredded or diced, it’s the source of protein and gives the salad a hearty base—use rotisserie chicken for the quickest option.
Ripe avocado: Mashed for irresistible creaminess and healthy fats that give the salad its signature silky texture.
Plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang, body, and a creamy texture with an extra protein boost instead of heavy mayo.
Dijon mustard: Brings zippy undertones and depth to the dressing—just a tablespoon transforms the flavor.
Lemon juice: Brightens everything up and preserves the avocado’s pretty green color.
Garlic powder: Delivers a gentle savory note without overpowering the other flavors.
Onion powder: Enhances the salad with subtle allium richness, blending perfectly alongside the fresh red onion.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing flavors—taste and adjust to make it just right for you.
Celery: Finely chopped for crisp bites and a lovely fresh crunch throughout.
Red onion: Diced small, it adds color and a pop of sharpness that ties everything together.
Fresh cilantro (optional): A sprinkle brings herbal brightness—feel free to leave it out or swap for parsley if you prefer.
Lettuce leaves or whole grain bread: For serving—choose crisp lettuce if you love a low-carb option or hearty bread for the perfect sandwich.

How to Make

Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base

Start by grabbing a medium-sized mixing bowl. Combine your cooked chicken, mashed avocado, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic starts! Use a fork or spatula to gently but thoroughly blend everything until you have a luscious, evenly mixed base that’s waiting for its crunchy companions.

Step 2: Add Your Crunchy Veggies

Now add the finely chopped celery, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro (if you’re using it). Stir everything together gently, making sure those bright, fresh bits are evenly distributed throughout the creamy chicken mixture. This step turns your Chicken Avocado Salad from good to absolutely unforgettable by adding layers of flavor, texture, and eye-catching color.

Step 3: Adjust and Taste

Give your salad a quick taste test. Want more brightness? Squeeze in extra lemon juice. Craving more savoriness? Sprinkle in a pinch more salt or pepper. This little step ensures your Chicken Avocado Salad is truly tailored to your taste buds. Remember, a little tweak can elevate your salad from tasty to “can’t stop eating it.”

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon your freshly made Chicken Avocado Salad onto crisp lettuce leaves if you’re going for light and refreshing, or spread it thickly between slices of whole grain bread for a meal that’s more robust. You can also fill up wraps, stuff pita pockets, or scoop it up with your favorite crackers. However you serve it, dig in while everything is fresh and bright!

How to Serve

Garnishes

Make your Chicken Avocado Salad pop by adding garnishes that draw the eye and invite that first bite. A scatter of extra chopped cilantro or parsley, a sprinkle of black pepper, or even a few slices of cherry tomatoes on top add vibrant color and a touch of elegance. A few thinly sliced radishes give both crunch and visual flair, turning everyday salad into something dinner party worthy.

Side Dishes

This salad loves to have a supporting cast. Pair it with a bowl of fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or a cozy cup of soup for a well-rounded meal. For picnic vibes or a casual lunch, add a handful of whole-grain crackers or some crisp vegetable sticks—carrot and cucumber dippers are perfect for scooping up every creamy bite of Chicken Avocado Salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Chicken Avocado Salad isn’t just a salad—it’s a versatile filling! Try serving it in avocado halves for a stunning presentation, tuck it into mini bell pepper boats for a gluten-free twist, or load it into whole wheat pita pockets for on-the-go lunches. You can even serve on cucumber rounds or inside halved cherry tomatoes as colorful, crowd-pleasing appetizers for your next get-together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry—Chicken Avocado Salad keeps surprisingly well! Transfer any extra salad to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 24 hours for ultimate creaminess and the brightest flavor, but if you added a little extra lemon, you might stretch it to the next day with minimal browning.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this recipe. The fresh avocado and yogurt-based dressing don’t thaw well and tend to separate, resulting in a watery, unappetizing texture. Chicken Avocado Salad shines brightest when made fresh, so just mix up what you’ll enjoy within a day or so.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled salad, reheating isn’t required or recommended. It’s meant to be enjoyed cool or at room temperature—perfect for hot days or speedy lunches. If you’re using leftovers as a sandwich filling or in a wrap, just give the salad a gentle stir and enjoy straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in Chicken Avocado Salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a delicious and time-saving option. The tender, flavorful meat shreds easily and blends beautifully with creamy avocado and crisp vegetables, making this salad even quicker to prepare.

How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice mixed in with the avocado does wonders for preserving that gorgeous green color. For extra insurance, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of stored salad to minimize air contact before refrigerating.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

If you need a dairy-free option, swap out Greek yogurt for an unsweetened, plant-based yogurt. You could also use an extra half an avocado for ultra-creamy consistency, or a light sprinkle of olive oil and a splash more lemon if you prefer it lighter.

Is Chicken Avocado Salad gluten free?

The salad itself contains no gluten. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free bread, crackers, or lettuce leaves if you’re avoiding gluten entirely. It’s a naturally wholesome and allergy-friendly choice!

Can I add more vegetables or spices?

Definitely—make it your own! Diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or a handful of chopped olives add wonderful texture and flavor. If you like it spicy, toss in diced jalapeno or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give your Chicken Avocado Salad a little extra kick.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying, Chicken Avocado Salad checks every box. Every bite delivers freshness, creaminess, and a medley of bright flavors that make healthy eating a pure pleasure. I hope you’ll give it a try and quickly find it becoming your new favorite go-to recipe!

Chicken Avocado Salad Recipe