High-Protein Avocado Chicken Salad for Longevity
This High-Protein Avocado Chicken Salad delivers 32g of lean protein combined with heart-healthy fats to support muscle maintenance and healthy aging. Ready in just 15 minutes, this creamy, mayo-free salad uses mashed avocado as the base, mixed with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and fresh herbs. Perfect for nutritious lunches that satisfy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked chicken)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Lunch, Main Course, Salad
- Method: Assembly, No-Cook (except eggs)
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten-Free, High-Protein, Keto-Friendly, Low-Carb
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (about 12 oz)
- 1 large ripe avocado
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (0% fat)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- ½ cup celery, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup diced tomatoes, 2 tbsp crumbled feta
For Serving:
- Whole-grain bread or wraps
- Lettuce cups or mixed greens
- Sliced tomatoes
- Cucumber slices
Instructions
- If not already cooked, use rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or poach chicken breasts in simmering water 12-15 minutes. Let cool, then dice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
- In large bowl, mash avocado with fork until mostly smooth. Add Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
- Finely dice celery and red onion into small, uniform pieces. Chop fresh cilantro.
- Add diced chicken to avocado mixture. Fold in celery, red onion, and cilantro. If using, add tomatoes and feta. Mix gently until evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, lime juice, or spices as needed. Flavor should be bright, fresh, and well-balanced.
- Serve immediately or cover tightly and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Serve on bread, in wrap, over greens, or in lettuce cups.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken or canned (2 5-oz cans) for quick prep.
- Best within 24 hours; avocado oxidizes despite lime juice.
- Press plastic wrap on surface to minimize browning.
- Dairy-free: omit Greek yogurt; avocado provides creaminess.
- Keto-friendly: ~8g net carbs per serving.
- Serving options: sandwiches, wraps, salads, lettuce cups, stuffed peppers.
- Flavor boost: add jalapeño, corn, black beans, or dill.
- Meal prep: store chicken and veggies separately; combine fresh.