Name: Easy & Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped; 1 ripe avocado; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup celery, diced; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: 1/4 cup diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or jalapeño

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This easy & healthy avocado chicken salad is my go-to when I want something quick, creamy, and packed with protein and good fats. It swaps out traditional mayo for creamy avocado, making it lighter but just as satisfying. I love tossing it together for a weekday lunch, meal prep, or even stuffing it into lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this chicken salad is both nourishing and versatile. It comes together in minutes with just a handful of fresh, simple ingredients. The avocado gives it a smooth, rich texture while keeping it dairy-free and mayo-free. I can eat it on toast, in wraps, in lettuce cups, or straight from the bowl—it’s that good. Whether I’m following a low-carb, gluten-free, or clean-eating approach, this recipe fits right in. Easy & Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
Ripe avocado
Red onion (finely chopped)
Celery (diced)
Fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped)
Lemon or lime juice
Garlic powder
Salt and black pepper
Optional: diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or jalapeño for extra flavor

Directions

I scoop the avocado into a large bowl and mash it slightly with a fork until creamy but still a little chunky.
I add the shredded or chopped chicken, red onion, celery, herbs, lemon or lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
I mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
I taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice or salt if needed.
I serve it immediately or chill it for a few minutes before eating.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2–3 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked chicken)
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

I add chopped boiled eggs for extra protein and richness.
I mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a tangy, extra-creamy version.
I use canned chicken or rotisserie chicken when I’m in a hurry.
I spice it up with cayenne, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños.
I stuff it into a low-carb tortilla or a halved avocado for a fun presentation.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since avocado can brown over time, I press a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the salad before sealing the container to help it stay fresh.

There’s no need to reheat—this salad is meant to be eaten cold or at room temperature. Easy & Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad

FAQs

Can I make avocado chicken salad ahead of time?

I usually make it the day I plan to eat it, but I can prep the chicken and chopped veggies ahead and mix everything right before serving for the freshest taste.

How can I keep the avocado from browning?

I use plenty of lemon or lime juice and press plastic wrap directly on the surface of the salad before storing it in the fridge.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, I often use canned chicken for a faster prep—it works well as long as I drain it properly.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein, making it a great keto-friendly option.

What should I serve with avocado chicken salad?

I like it on whole grain toast, in lettuce wraps, with crackers, or spooned into bell pepper halves for a crunchy twist.

Conclusion

Easy & healthy avocado chicken salad is one of those recipes I keep on repeat. It’s fast, flavorful, and fits into almost any diet or lifestyle. I love how satisfying it is without feeling heavy, and how I can switch it up based on what I have in the fridge. Whether I’m meal-prepping or just need something quick and wholesome, this salad always hits the mark.