Chicken Salad
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked canned chicken shredded or chopped
- 1 large ripe avocado or two small ones, mashed
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cumin optional for warmth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: diced cucumber or jalapeño for crunch or heat
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the chicken, avocado, tomatoes, and herbs.
- In a small bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, and all the seasonings.
- Add the yogurt mixture to the salad and gently fold everything together.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and serve however you like — over greens, in a wrap, or on toast.
Notes
Tips, Tricks & Storage
Use Cold Chicken Cold, cooked chicken shreds or cubes more easily and holds its texture better when mixed with the dressing. Balance the Dressing Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed. The goal is to coat everything lightly, not drown it in dressing. Add Freshness A squeeze of lemon juice or a handful of fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) adds color and rounds out the flavor. Chill Before Serving Let the chicken salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. It gives the flavors time to meld. Storage Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown slightly, but it will still taste good. Stir before serving to refresh the texture if needed.Variations
You can easily switch things up depending on what you like or have on hand. Try adding grapes, diced apples, or cranberries for a touch of sweetness. For crunch, toss in chopped pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds. If you like a little spice, stir in a dash of cayenne, hot sauce, or even a spoonful of Dijon mustard. It's a flexible, forgiving recipe that adapts to your preferences.Substitutions
Chicken Leftover grilled, roasted, or even canned chicken can be used — just make sure it's drained and shredded well. Mayonnaise → Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream Greek yogurt makes it lighter with a bit of tang, while sour cream gives it a richer flavor. You can also do half mayo and half yogurt for balance. Celery → Cucumbers or Bell Peppers If you're not a celery fan, finely diced cucumber or bell pepper adds a similar crunch with a milder flavor. Onion → Green Onion or Shallot Green onions add a gentle bite, while shallots offer a softer, slightly sweet flavor. Add-Ins You can toss in herbs like dill, tarragon, or basil. A handful of chopped pickles will also give it a tangy kick.Nutrition
Calories: 252kcal
Private Notes
Calories: 252kcal
