Avocado Chicken Salad

By Lily | Last modified on Feb 11, 2026

Featured in: Salads

There’s something truly satisfying about a chicken salad that combines creamy avocado and fresh, crunchy vegetables. This Avocado Chicken Salad perfectly balances smoky grilled chicken with the smoothness of ripe avocado, creating a vibrant and nutritious meal.

Juicy cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers add bursts of texture and color, while a simple lime and cumin dressing enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them. Whether for lunch, a light dinner, or a colorful side, this salad is quick to prepare and delightful to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines creamy avocado with smoky grilled chicken for ideal texture contrast.
Uses fresh vegetables for vibrant flavor and a nutritious boost.
A light, zesty dressing enhances flavor without heavy sauces.
Easy preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Cooked chicken breast (2 cups): Diced into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and protein-packed bites.
Ripe avocados (2): Diced to provide creamy richness and healthy fats for a smooth texture.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Halved for juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant red color.
Cucumber (1): Diced to add a fresh, crunchy contrast that brightens the salad.
Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup): Rough chopped to bring a fresh, herbal aroma and flavor.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds a mellow garlic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances and enhances the overall flavors of the salad.
Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds mild heat and depth to the dish.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used in the dressing to bring richness and meld all flavors together.
Lime juice (1 lime): Provides tangy brightness and balances the creamy avocado.
Cumin (1/2 tsp): Sprinkled in dressing to add subtle earthiness and warmth.

Instructions

Gather and Prepare Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients: cooked chicken, ripe avocados, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, cilantro, and seasonings. Preparing everything beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process and helps maintain salad freshness.
Dice the Chicken: Chop the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces so every forkful is packed with tender, smoky protein. Using cooked chicken removes the hassle of grilling or baking during prep.
Prep the Vegetables and Herbs: Dice peeled avocados and cucumbers into uniform pieces, and halve the cherry tomatoes for colorful, juicy bursts. Roughly chop the fresh cilantro to release its aromatic oils and brighten the salad.
Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the chicken, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and cilantro together. Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper to evenly season the mix without overwhelming the natural flavors.
Mix the Dressing: Whisk olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, and cumin in a small bowl until emulsified. This simple dressing ties together the salad components with tangy, earthy notes that enhance every bite.
Dress and Toss the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mix, folding gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Gentle tossing prevents avocado from mashing and keeps the salad vibrant and fresh.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately in your favorite bowls for a colorful, crunchy salad that can brighten any meal. It’s perfect as a light lunch, dinner, or even a filling snack.

You Must Know

For best flavor, use ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushiness.
Cook chicken ahead and keep chilled to maintain salad freshness.
The dressing is best added just before serving to prevent soggy ingredients.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep avocado from browning, squeeze additional lime juice over the salad before sealing and consume quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad over mixed greens or stuffed into a pita for a hearty meal. It also pairs well with tortilla chips or crusty bread on the side for added crunch.

Professional Tips

Use grilled or rotisserie chicken for added smoky flavor without extra effort.
Adjust seasoning carefully—avocado’s subtle flavor can be easily overpowered.
For extra texture, add toasted nuts or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken for this salad?: Yes, canned chicken works well in a pinch but fresh cooked chicken offers better texture and flavor.
How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?: Adding lime juice and keeping the salad chilled slows oxidation and keeps avocado fresh longer.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?: It’s best to prepare just before serving, but ingredients can be chopped a few hours ahead and stored separately.
Is this salad gluten-free?: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?: Absolutely! Red onion, bell peppers, or corn can add flavor and color variations.
What can I use instead of cilantro?: Fresh parsley or basil can be substituted if you prefer a milder fresh herb note.