Avocado Chicken Salad - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Easy

Avocado Chicken Salad

(415)
15 min4350 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|March 15, 2024

This is chicken salad for people who don't want all that mayo — and honestly, it might be better. Ripe avocado mashed with lime juice replaces the mayonnaise entirely, creating a creamy, rich base that's packed with healthy fats instead of the processed stuff. The key is using avocados that give slightly when you press them — not rock hard, not brown and mushy. Add diced chicken, red onion, cilantro, a little jalapeño if you want some heat, cherry tomatoes, and a good pinch of cumin. It tastes fresh, light, and distinctly different from traditional chicken salad. Serve it in lettuce cups for a low-carb lunch or spread it thick on toasted sourdough when you want something more substantial.

chicken-saladshealthyno-mayoavocado

Ingredients

Servings:
4

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Mise en Place Saves Time

Even for quick recipes, spend 3 minutes measuring and prepping everything before you turn on the heat. It sounds counterintuitive, but it actually speeds up cooking because you're never scrambling mid-recipe.

Season Generously

Most home cooks under-season their chicken. I use about 1 teaspoon of kosher salt per pound of chicken, applied at least 30 minutes before cooking for the deepest flavour penetration.

About This Recipe

Avocado Chicken Salad is a delightful twist on a classic that resonates with many Canadian home cooks. With our love for fresh ingredients, this dish stands out by replacing traditional mayonnaise with creamy, ripe avocados mashed with zesty lime juice. The result is a salad that is both rich and refreshing, perfect for warm days or light lunches. The vibrant combination of diced chicken, crunchy red onion, and bright cherry tomatoes creates a medley of textures and flavours that make each bite a celebration of freshness.

This salad is especially popular for picnics or quick weeknight dinners. It’s easy to whip up in just 15 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy families. The hint of cumin adds a warm depth that perfectly complements the other ingredients. Whether you serve it in crisp lettuce cups or on hearty sourdough, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy, embodying the spirit of Canadian culinary creativity.

Tips for the Best Avocado Chicken Salad

To ensure the best avocado chicken salad, use perfectly ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed. This creates that creamy texture we love. When cooking your chicken, aim for an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to ensure it’s fully cooked without becoming dry. Be mindful not to overmix the salad; you want the chicken and avocado to blend harmoniously while still retaining some texture.

What to Serve With It

For a delightful serving suggestion, consider placing this avocado chicken salad in crisp lettuce cups for a refreshing low-carb option. Pair it with a side of seasonal Canadian veggies like grilled asparagus or sweet corn on the cob for a complete meal. If you're in the mood for something heartier, spread it on toasted sourdough bread, perhaps with a side of kettle-cooked chips for that satisfying crunch.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover avocado chicken salad is best stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, you can sprinkle a bit more lime juice over the top before sealing. Reheating is not recommended since avocados don’t hold up well to heat, but if you must, gently warm it in the microwave for just a few seconds at low power. Freezing this dish is not ideal, as the texture of the avocado will change upon thawing.

Nutrition Per Serving

350
Calories
30g
Protein
20g
Fat
12g
Carbs
Fiber7g
Sugar2g
Sodium380mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?+

Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch, but fresh, cooked chicken provides better texture and flavour. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

What type of chicken works best?+

Grilled or roasted chicken breast is ideal for this salad, as it offers a juicy texture. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavour.

How can I make this salad spicier?+

To amp up the heat, increase the amount of minced jalapeño or add a dash of hot sauce. You can also include diced red chili peppers for an extra kick.

Can I add other vegetables?+

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even corn. Just keep in mind that these additions might alter the overall flavour profile slightly.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?+

Yes, this salad is excellent for meal prep! Just store it in individual containers, but remember to add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and green.

Reviews

4.8 / 5 (415 reviews)
Chris C.
Jun 17, 2025

Really good! I added a bit more seasoning but otherwise perfect.

Michael F.
Aug 25, 2025

The flavours are incredible. Restaurant quality at home!

Sophie L.
Nov 25, 2025

Great recipe! Even my picky kids loved it.

Lauren P.
Nov 20, 2025

Best chicken recipe I have tried in a long time.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:
15 min
Cook:
0 min
Total:
15 min
Servings:
4
Difficulty:
Easy

Pro Tips

  • 1Buy avocados 2-3 days before you need them and let them ripen on the counter. Perfectly ripe avocados yield gently when pressed.
  • 2If you need to store leftovers, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad to prevent air contact and browning.
  • 3No cilantro fan? Swap for fresh basil — it changes the profile but works surprisingly well.

Variations

  • Add crumbled bacon for a BLT-inspired version.
  • Greek version: add cucumber, feta, and swap lime for lemon juice.
  • Spicy version: add 1 teaspoon of hot sauce or extra jalapeño.

Chicken Salads

Avocado Chicken Salad

The secret to the best Avocado Chicken Salad? It is easier than you think.

by ChickenRecipes.ca

Avocado Chicken Salad - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Chef Marco Deluca

Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience

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