Name: Avocado Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons avocado oil; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon yellow curry powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup cashews; 1 cup avocado (mashed); 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced); 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons celery (diced); 1/4 cup cilantro (roughly chopped); 1/4 cup green onions (sliced); Lettuce cups for serving

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There’s something about a good Avocado Chicken Salad that just makes my heart sing. It’s the perfect dish for a hot summer day when you want something refreshing yet satisfying. I remember the first time I made this salad; it was a sunny afternoon, and I was craving something light but packed with flavor. I had just returned from the market with ripe avocados and tender chicken breasts, and the idea of combining them into a vibrant salad felt like the right thing to do. As I chopped the ingredients, the bright colors took over my kitchen, and I could already taste the creamy goodness mixed with the crunch of fresh veggies. That day, I discovered not just a recipe, but a staple for summer picnics and backyard barbecues.

What I love most about Avocado Chicken Salad is its versatility. You can enjoy it on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or even on its own. It’s nourishing, light, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken! With creamy avocado and a hint of curry spice, this dish is not only delicious but also aesthetically pleasing. I can’t even count how many times I’ve shared it with friends and family, and every time, there are smiles all around. I hope you enjoy making this as much as I do!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Cutting Board

The Magic of This Avocado Chicken Salad

Flavorful Ingredients

The beauty of Avocado Chicken Salad lies in its ingredients. The creamy avocado adds richness, while the chicken provides lean protein. The yellow curry powder gives it a unique flavor, setting it apart from traditional salads. And let’s not forget the crunchy cashews which add a delightful texture. Each ingredient works in harmony to create a balanced dish.

Perfect for Summer

As the weather warms up, this salad becomes an ideal choice. It’s refreshing and light, making it perfect for those hot summer days when you don’t want to spend hours cooking. Just prepare it in advance, and you’ll have a meal ready to go when hunger strikes.

Easy to Prepare

Don’t worry if you’re not a culinary expert! This Avocado Chicken Salad is straightforward to make. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delightful dish that looks as good as it tastes. It’s a great recipe for beginners, too.

Customizable

One of the best things about this salad is how easily it can be customized. You can add or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand. Love cilantro? Toss in more! Want extra crunch? Add some chopped nuts or seeds. The possibilities are endless.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for something quick to prepare for lunch or dinner throughout the week, this salad is an excellent option. It stores well in the fridge and can be enjoyed over several days without losing its flavors.

What Goes Into Avocado Chicken Salad

Every ingredient in this Avocado Chicken Salad plays a pivotal role in creating a dish that’s both nutritious and delightful. The combination of flavors and textures not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Here’s a closer look at the key players:

2 teaspoons avocado oil – This oil is rich in healthy fats and adds a subtle flavor to the chicken.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The primary protein source, providing a hearty base for the salad.
1 tablespoon yellow curry powder – This spice brings warmth and depth to the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing flavors.
1/2 cup cashews – Adds a delicious crunch.
1 cup avocado (mashed) – Creamy and nutritious, it binds the salad together.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dish with acidity.
1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced) – Adds a zesty kick.
1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons celery (diced) – Provides crunch and freshness.
1/4 cup cilantro (roughly chopped) – Offers a burst of herbal flavor.
1/4 cup green onions (sliced) – Adds a mild onion flavor and crunch.
Lettuce cups for serving – Perfect for a light, fresh presentation.

The Process for Making Avocado Chicken Salad

Making a delicious Avocado Chicken Salad is easier than you might think! Let’s walk through the steps together, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Follow along as we create this delightful dish.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial as it ensures your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Rub avocado oil over the chicken breasts. Make sure to coat them evenly. Next, sprinkle on the yellow curry powder and massage it into the chicken. The spices will flavor the meat beautifully.
Add salt and pepper to taste. Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors in your dish.
Place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet. On a separate small baking sheet, spread out cashews. This allows them to toast perfectly without burning.
Cook the chicken in the preheated oven until it’s no longer pink inside, about 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the cashews; they should be golden brown and smell nutty after about 10 to 12 minutes.
Once done, let the chicken cool to room temperature. This is crucial because you don’t want to mix hot chicken into your salad.
Refrigerate the chicken for at least 2 hours to cool completely. This makes it easier to chop and mix into the salad.
Meanwhile, roughly chop the toasted cashews and set them aside. They’ll add an amazing crunch to your salad.
Once the chicken has chilled, stir together the avocado, lemon juice, ginger, and seasoning. Taste the mixture to ensure it’s seasoned to your liking.
Fold in the diced celery, cilantro, and green onions along with the chopped cashews. This step adds layers of flavor and texture to the salad.
Finally, chop the cooled chicken into small pieces and fold it into the avocado mixture. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
Serve your Avocado Chicken Salad in crisp lettuce cups. Enjoy the fresh flavors and delightful textures!

Things Worth Knowing

Resting the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to cool completely before adding it to the salad helps maintain the freshness of the avocado and prevents browning.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will meld and taste even better the next day!
Texture Balance: Make sure to chop your vegetables finely to ensure they mix well with the avocado and chicken.
Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of curry powder based on your spice preference. You can also experiment with different spices!

Customization Ideas

If you’re looking to switch things up with your Avocado Chicken Salad, here are some fun customization ideas to make it your own!

Add More Veggies: Try adding diced bell peppers, chopped cucumbers, or even shredded carrots for an added crunch and color.
Protein Variations: Swap the chicken for canned tuna or shredded turkey if you want to mix things up.
Flavor Boost: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a unique twist.
Experiment with Nuts: If you’re not a fan of cashews, try almonds or walnuts for a different texture and flavor.
Herb Swaps: Instead of cilantro, try parsley or dill for a fresh twist.
Fruit Additions: For a sweet touch, add diced apples or mango for a refreshing summer flavor.
Wrap It Up: Instead of serving it in lettuce cups, wrap the salad in a whole grain tortilla for a hearty lunch option.

Pairing Suggestions for Avocado Chicken Salad

When you’re enjoying your Avocado Chicken Salad, consider these delightful pairings to create a complete meal.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Serve it alongside a colorful fruit salad for a refreshing and nutritious balance.
Whole Grain Bread: Pair it with whole grain bread or wraps to make a satisfying lunch.
Chips or Crackers: Enjoy it with a side of whole grain chips or crackers for added crunch.
Soup: A light vegetable soup makes a great companion, especially on cooler days.
Picnic Delight: This salad is perfect for outdoor gatherings. Pack it up in individual containers for a picnic treat.
Seasonal Salads: Pair with a side salad topped with seasonal veggies for a complete meal.

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, making Avocado Chicken Salad ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add a little extra lemon juice before serving to keep the avocado from browning.

If you want to switch things up, you can substitute the chicken with canned tuna, shredded turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Yes, Avocado Chicken Salad is fantastic for meal prep! You can portion it out into individual servings and keep it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners during the week. Just remember to consume it within three days for the best taste and freshness.

To prevent your avocado from browning, make sure to add some lemon juice to the mashed avocado when preparing the salad. The acidity in the lemon juice helps slow down the oxidation process and keeps it looking fresh and vibrant.

Conclusion

This Avocado Chicken Salad brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making it a standout choice for any meal. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of summer and a reminder that healthy meals can be delicious. I encourage you to try making this salad for your next gathering or as a quick weeknight dinner. You won’t regret it!