Avocado and chicken, a match made in keto heaven—who would’ve thought? There’s just something so delightfully creamy about avocados that makes it the perfect partner for tender, juicy chicken. This salad is like a little escape on a plate, reminiscent of those lazy summer afternoons when life just feels.
. . easier.
Steps
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped chicken, avocado, apple, celery, and red onion. Use a fork to gently mash the avocado and mix everything until well combined.
- Add the cilantro or parsley, lime or lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Taste and adjust with more lime juice or salt if needed, and if the salad seems dry, incorporate a teaspoon or two of olive oil.
- Store the salad by placing it in a bowl and covering it completely with plastic wrap to prevent air exposure. It will last for a couple of days in the refrigerator.
- Serve the salad on sandwich bread, toasted bread, or over salad greens such as arugula or watercress for added flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely chopped cooked chicken
- 1 ripe avocado, seeded and peeled
- 1 apple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro or parsley
- 2 teaspoons lime juice or 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- Sandwich bread or salad greens
Nutritional Values
Calories: 988 | Fat: 68g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 102mg | Sodium: 798mg | Carbohydrates: 66g | Dietary Fiber: 32g | Sugars: 24g | Protein: 44g | Vitamin C: 58mg | Calcium: 102mg | Iron: 4mg | Potassium: 2634mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of fruit instead of apple in the chicken salad?
- Yes, you can substitute the apple with other fruits like grapes or pears, which will also add a sweet and crunchy element to the salad.
- What can I use if I don’t have fresh lime or lemon juice?
- If fresh lime or lemon juice isn’t available, you can use bottled juice in a pinch. However, the flavor might be slightly different, so try to use fresh juice if possible for the best taste.
- How do I prevent the avocado in the salad from browning?
- To minimize browning, ensure that the avocado is well mixed with lime or lemon juice, as the acidity helps slow down oxidation. Additionally, store the salad in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface.
- Can I make this salad in advance?
- This chicken salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly in the fridge, covered tightly to limit exposure to air.
- Is there a vegetarian option for this chicken salad?
- Yes, you can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version while maintaining the creamy and crunchy texture.
Tips
- To prevent the avocado from browning too quickly, ensure that it is well mixed with lime or lemon juice, which helps preserve its vibrant color.
- If you prefer a less sweet salad, opt for a tart apple variety like Granny Smith to balance the flavors.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of olive oil if the salad feels too dry after mixing.
- Store the salad properly by covering it with plastic wrap, pressing directly onto its surface to minimize air exposure, which can help maintain freshness for a couple of days in the refrigerator.
Equipment
- Avocado Slicer – To easily cut and peel the avocado.
- Citrus Juicer – For efficiently extracting lime or lemon juice.
- Mixing Bowl – A medium-sized mixing bowl for combining the ingredients.
- Plastic Wrap Dispenser – For covering the bowl to store the salad in the fridge.
