As I opened the fridge, a familiar craving hit me. I wanted a satisfying and nutritious chicken salad. That’s when I found this amazing recipe for chicken salad no mayo with avocado.
The idea of a mayonnaise-free chicken salad caught my eye. I’d been looking for ways to eat less fat and calories without losing flavor. This recipe seemed like the answer, with avocado adding a natural creaminess.
Table of Contents
Introduction: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Dish
Looking for a healthier chicken salad? This recipe is a creamy alternative without mayonnaise. It’s as tasty as the traditional version but with avocado, chicken, and veggies.
The Inspiration Behind a Mayo-Free Chicken Salad
Most chicken salads use mayonnaise. But, this recipe swaps it for avocado. It’s creamy, rich, and dairy-free, with less saturated fat. Avocado adds healthy fats, and chicken provides protein for a full feeling.
The Benefits of Embracing a Healthier Alternative
Chicken salad can also use Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, or avocado oil. Homemade chicken salad lasts 3-4 days in the fridge. Choosing avocado means enjoying classic flavors with extra nutrients.
No Mayo Needed: The Creaminess of Avocado
The star of this chicken salad is the avocado. It adds a natural creaminess that makes mayonnaise unnecessary. Avocados blend smoothly into the salad, giving it a rich feel without the extra calories and fat of mayo.
This Creamy Avocado Dressing recipe makes 8 servings. It has an average rating of 4.62 out of 5 from 132 ratings. Each serving has 88 calories, 2g of carbs, 1g of protein, and 9g of fat. It also has 2g of fiber. The recipe was first shared on April 14, 2014, and has been a hit ever since.
| Chicken Salad Variety | Protein Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Avocado Chicken Salad | 21g per ½ cup |
| Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad | 21g per ⅓ cup |
| Buffalo Chicken Salad | 22g per ½ cup |
| Basil Balsamic Chicken Salad | 21g per ½ cup |
| Hummus Chicken Salad | 17g per ½ cup |
| Easy Curry Avocado Chicken Salad | 18g per ½ cup |
| Chopped Chicken Salad with Sesame Cilantro Dressing | 22g per 1 cup |
The avocado-based chicken salad is packed with protein. It has 21 grams of protein per ½ cup serving. This makes it a nutritious and filling meal choice without mayonnaise.
Using avocado as the creamy base makes this chicken salad smooth and indulgent. It’s a healthier choice than traditional mayonnaise-based recipes. Enjoy a delicious and satisfying chicken salad that’s both creamy and nutritious.
Nutritious and Satisfying: A Protein-Packed Meal
This avocado chicken salad is not only tasty but also full of nutrients. It has lean protein from chicken, healthy fats from avocado, and fiber from veggies. This mix makes a balanced meal great for a snack or light lunch.
The Wholesome Ingredients in Avocado Chicken Salad
The recipe for this chicken salad uses many healthy ingredients. These add to the taste and nutritional value:
- Chicken: A lean protein source with 21 grams per serving.
- Avocado: Adds healthy fats and a creamy texture.
- Corn: Brings a sweet crunch and extra fiber.
- Crispy bacon: Offers a savory, smoky flavor.
- Fresh herbs: Like parsley and dill, for a bright, aromatic touch.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 137 kcal |
| Protein | 21g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 1g |
This chicken salad is a nutritious and satisfying meal. It has the right mix of nutrients to keep you energized all day.
Quick and Easy Preparation
This avocado chicken salad is super quick and easy to make. Thanks to pre-cooked chicken, you can whip it up in minutes. It’s perfect for a fast, healthy lunch or dinner.
Using pre-cooked chicken is the secret to this speedy recipe. You can use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken from the store. This way, you avoid cooking the chicken and focus on the other ingredients.
To make the salad, just mix the chicken with diced avocado, Greek yogurt, and some seasonings. You can also add diced celery or red onion if you like. Toss it all together, and you’re done!
Preparing this salad takes only 10-15 minutes. It’s a great choice for busy days. You can serve it on greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers for a healthy meal or snack.
| Nutrition Facts | Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 192 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Potassium | 201mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Net Carbs | 1g |
This avocado chicken salad is a quick and healthy meal option. It’s great for a fast lunch or a simple dinner. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
chicken salad no mayo: A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
This chicken salad without mayo is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for packing a lunch, hosting a gathering, or a quick meal. The avocado chicken salad is sure to please.
It’s great because it can be used in many ways. It’s creamy and flavorful, making a tasty sandwich filling. Just put it on your favorite bread, add some greens, and you’re set for a meal on the go.
But it doesn’t stop there. It’s also good on top of crisp salgreens. This adds protein and nutrients to your meal. The avocado dressing pairs well with the greens, making it a balanced dish.
For those who like to eat it alone, it’s just as good. Try it in a lettuce wrap or on its own. The mix of chicken, avocado, and seasonings is delightful and filling.
| Recipe Rating | Servings | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|
| 4.88 out of 5 | Approximately 7 servings | 15 minutes |
Whether you’re packing a lunch, hosting a gathering, or just need a quick meal, this avocado chicken salad is perfect. It’s creamy, flavorful, and can be served in many ways.
So, next time you want a delicious and satisfying meal, try this chicken salad without mayo. It’s a healthier choice than the classic mayo version and will quickly become a favorite.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making the Perfect Avocado Chicken Salad
Ingredient List and Preparation
To make this tasty avocado chicken salad, you’ll need a few ingredients. You’ll need cooked chicken, ripe avocados, corn, crispy bacon, green onions, and fresh dill. Also, you’ll need lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
The preparation is simple. Just mix the chicken, avocado, and other ingredients in a bowl. Then, toss everything with a dressing made from lime juice, olive oil, and seasonings.
Assembly and Serving Suggestions
Once you mix all the ingredients, the salad is ready to eat. You can enjoy it on its own or on lettuce leaves or crackers. It’s also great as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
For a full meal, try it with sourdough toast or roasted potatoes. This adds a nice touch to your meal.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 291 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Protein | 19g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 67mg |
| Sodium | 149mg |
| Potassium | 340mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Vitamin A | 172IU |
| Vitamin C | 5mg |
| Calcium | 32mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
This creamy avocado chicken salad recipe is quick, ready in just 15 minutes. It’s perfect for a fast lunch. The dressing includes olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Avocado Chicken Salad
Making the perfect avocado chicken salad is all about balance. It’s a mix of flavors and textures. Here are some tips to make your homemade salad even better.
Making the Dressing Ahead of Time
Save time by making the dressing ahead. Mix lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and dill in a jar. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This lets the flavors blend, making it easy to put the salad together.
Preventing Avocado Browning
Avocados turn brown fast after cutting. Add the avocado just before serving to avoid this. You can also toss the avocado in lime juice from the dressing. This keeps it looking green and fresh.
Follow these tips for a salad that’s not just tasty but also looks great. The avocado will stay green and vibrant.
Variations and Customizations
The beauty of avocado chicken salad lies in its versatility. You can swap chicken for shrimp, tuna, or tofu. Also, try adding diced tomatoes, red bell peppers, cilantro, or parsley to make it your own.
Adding Other Proteins or Vegetables
Want to mix things up? Try using shrimp, tuna, or tofu instead of chicken. They add new flavors and textures. Diced tomatoes, red bell peppers, cilantro, or parsley can also boost the salad’s taste and look.
Making It Creamier or Lighter
For a creamier salad, add 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt or sour cream. This makes it rich and creamy. Or, use less avocado or skip the bacon for a lighter version.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Value (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | 10 oz | 283 calories, 26g protein, 4g carbs, 15g fat |
| Avocado | 1 medium | 320 calories, 4g protein, 17g carbs, 29g fat |
| Cottage Cheese | 3/4 cup | 110 calories, 15g protein, 6g carbs, 2g fat |
| Greek Yogurt | 1/2 cup | 100 calories, 17g protein, 6g carbs, 0g fat |
| Bacon (optional) | 2 slices | 90 calories, 7g protein, 0g carbs, 7g fat |
Remember, this avocado chicken salad is all about trying new things. Experiment to find the perfect mix for you.
Storage and Meal Prep: Extending the Freshness
To keep leftover avocado chicken salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Place plastic wrap directly on top to stop the avocado from turning brown. This keeps the salad fresh and colorful for 3-4 days.
The USDA says cooked chicken, a key part of chicken salad, should stay in the fridge for 3-4 days. This prevents bacteria from growing. Keeping it in airtight containers in the fridge is best to keep it safe and fresh.
For the best storage, put the salad in the coldest part of your fridge. This is usually the back or bottom shelves. This keeps the salad at the right temperature and prevents spoilage. When you’re ready to eat, just remove the plastic wrap and enjoy.
If you’re making the salad ahead of time, make the dressing separately. Then, toss it with the salad just before eating. This stops the avocado from turning brown and keeps the salad’s texture and taste great. Store the dressing and salad parts in separate containers in the fridge until you’re ready to eat.
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Store in airtight container | Prevents air exposure and maintains freshness |
| Press plastic wrap directly on top of salad | Prevents avocado from browning |
| Refrigerate at coldest part of fridge | Maintains optimal temperature for longer shelf life |
| Make dressing separately | Preserves texture and flavor of salad components |
By using these easy storage and meal prep tips, you can enjoy your creamy avocado chicken salad for days. This way, the flavors and nutrients stay fresh and vibrant.
Conclusion: Embrace the Creamy Alternative
This avocado chicken salad is a tasty and healthy twist on the classic chicken salad. It uses avocado instead of mayonnaise for a creamy and flavorful dish. It’s great for quick lunches or gatherings with friends and family.
You can make this recipe your own by adding extra proteins or veggies. It’s also easy to prepare and store. This way, you can enjoy it all week long for a convenient and healthy meal.
Try this avocado chicken salad for a healthier and more satisfying dish. It combines tender chicken, creamy avocado, and other tasty ingredients. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for a healthier twist on a classic.
FAQ
What is the inspiration behind this mayo-free chicken salad recipe?
This recipe was made to be healthier but still creamy and tasty. It uses avocado instead of mayonnaise. This makes it rich and indulgent, with the benefits of lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies.
What are the benefits of this avocado chicken salad compared to the traditional version?
This salad is creamy and dairy-free, with less saturated fat than mayo-based versions. Avocado adds healthy fats, and chicken provides protein for fullness.
How does the avocado provide creaminess without mayo?
Avocado makes this salad creamy, replacing the need for mayonnaise. It has a smooth texture that blends well, offering a rich feel without mayo’s calories and fat.
What other wholesome ingredients are included in this recipe?
Besides avocado and chicken, it has corn, crispy bacon, green onions, and fresh dill. These ingredients, along with lean protein and healthy fats, make a balanced meal.
How quick and easy is this avocado chicken salad to prepare?
This salad is quick and easy to make. With pre-cooked chicken, it’s ready in just a few minutes. It’s perfect for a fast, healthy lunch or dinner.
How versatile is this chicken salad without mayo?
This mayo-free chicken salad is very versatile. It’s great as a sandwich filling, on top of greens, or as a standalone meal. It’s perfect for lunches, gatherings, or quick meals.
What are some tips for making the best avocado chicken salad?
To enhance flavors, prepare the dressing ahead of time. To keep avocado from browning, add it just before serving. Toss with lime juice from the dressing.
Can I customize this recipe to my liking?
Yes! You can change the protein to shrimp or tofu, or add veggies like tomatoes or bell peppers. Adjust creaminess with Greek yogurt or sour cream, or use less avocado for a lighter version.
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