Name: High Protein Avocado Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced; 1/2 red onion, diced; 1 bunch cilantro, chopped; 2 small avocados; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup hemp seeds; 1 jalapeño, chopped (optional); Juice of 2 limes; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds; 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

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This High Protein Avocado Chicken Salad is a creamy, flavorful, and nutritious meal made with tender chicken, ripe avocados, Greek yogurt, and fresh vegetables. I love how it delivers plenty of protein while staying light and refreshing, making it perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or a satisfying low-carb dinner.

High Protein Avocado Chicken Salad

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

½ red onion, diced

1 bunch cilantro, chopped

2 small avocados

½ cup Greek yogurt

¼ cup hemp seeds

1 jalapeño, chopped (optional)

2 limes, juiced

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

2 celery stalks, thinly sliced

¼ cup sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds

¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)

Directions

I shred or dice the cooked chicken breast and place it into a large mixing bowl.

I dice the avocados and chop the red onion, celery, cilantro, and jalapeño if I am using it.

I add the Greek yogurt, hemp seeds, almonds, and dried cranberries to the bowl with the chicken.

I add the avocado and gently mash it into the mixture until everything becomes creamy and well combined.

I squeeze in the fresh lime juice and season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

I stir everything together until evenly mixed and creamy, then taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

I serve it immediately in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, seaweed wraps, or over a bed of greens.

Servings and timing

Servings: 5 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap cilantro for fresh parsley if I prefer a milder herbal flavor.

I like adding diced cucumber for extra crunch and freshness.

I occasionally use rotisserie chicken for added convenience.

I replace dried cranberries with chopped apples or grapes for a naturally sweet twist.

I add extra jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce when I want more heat.

I use pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or sliced almonds depending on what I have available.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since avocado naturally oxidizes, I like to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad to help minimize browning.

I do not recommend freezing this salad because the avocado and yogurt can change texture after thawing.

I enjoy this salad cold, so reheating is usually unnecessary. If I serve it later, I simply give it a quick stir before eating.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare it several hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. The lime juice helps slow down avocado browning, although it is freshest on the day it is made.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely. I often use rotisserie chicken when I need a quick and convenient option, and it adds great flavor.

Is this recipe low carb?

Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, especially if I skip the dried cranberries or serve it in lettuce wraps instead of bread.

What can I serve with avocado chicken salad?

I enjoy serving it in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, seaweed wraps, stuffed into pita pockets, or on top of a fresh green salad.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt?

Yes, I can use dairy-free yogurt if needed. Mashed avocado alone can also provide a creamy texture, though the protein content may be lower.

Conclusion

This High Protein Avocado Chicken Salad is one of my favorite quick and healthy meals because it is packed with protein, fresh ingredients, and creamy flavor. I love how easily it comes together in just 15 minutes and how versatile it is for lunches, meal prep, or light dinners. Whether I enjoy it in a wrap, sandwich, or salad bowl, it always delivers a satisfying and nutritious meal.

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High Protein Avocado Chicken Salad

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 5 servings
Diet: Halal

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Description

This High Protein Avocado Chicken Salad is creamy, fresh, and packed with protein from chicken, Greek yogurt, and hemp seeds. It makes a quick and satisfying meal for lunch, meal prep, or a light dinner.

Instructions

Place the shredded or diced cooked chicken breast into a large mixing bowl.
Dice the avocados and chop the red onion, celery, cilantro, and jalapeño if using.
Add the Greek yogurt, hemp seeds, sliced almonds or seeds, and dried cranberries to the bowl with the chicken.
Add the avocado and gently mash it into the mixture until creamy and well combined.
Add the lime juice and season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Stir until evenly mixed and creamy, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve immediately in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, seaweed wraps, or over fresh greens.