High-Protein Avocado Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This avocado chicken salad isn’t just delicious but also incredibly versatile and customizable. It’s high in protein, which helps in muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer. The addition of healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, along with fiber from the vegetables, makes this salad a wholesome, clean-eating option. Plus, it's gluten-free, paleo, and perfect for meal prepping.

Ingredients

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

• 4 oz / 100g chicken breast, cooked
• ½ avocado, large
• 1 egg, hard-boiled
• ⅓ cup tomatoes
• ½ cup spinach
• 1-2 scallions, thinly chopped
• 1 cucumber, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped olives

Dressing & Additions

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Start with a bed of spinach in a bowl, then layer the tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, olives, chicken, and egg on top.
2. Sprinkle the chopped scallions and freshly ground black pepper over the salad.
3. Prepare the dressing by mixing the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and sesame oil (if using).
4. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss everything together, and add salt to taste.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Swap the protein: You can easily swap the chicken for turkey, tuna, or grilled shrimp for a different twist.
• Vegan option: Omit the chicken and egg, and add chickpeas or tofu for plant-based protein.
• Add extra veggies: If you love greens, add some arugula, kale, or any other leafy vegetable for added nutrients.
• Nuts and seeds: For a crunchy texture, add some toasted sesame seeds or almonds.

Storage/Reheating

• This salad is best served fresh, but if you need to meal prep, store the ingredients separately and add the dressing just before eating to avoid sogginess.
• Storage: Keep the prepared salad without dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: If you need to reheat the chicken, warm it in a pan or microwave before assembling your salad.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

Is this salad suitable for keto?

Yes, this salad is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein, making it a great option for a keto diet.

How can I make this salad spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of spice, add some sliced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the salad or dressing.

Can I use grilled chicken instead of boiled?

Yes, grilled chicken will add a smoky flavor to the salad. Feel free to use any type of cooked chicken you prefer.

Can I use a different type of oil for the dressing?

Absolutely! You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or any other light oil of your choice.

How do I store the avocado?

If you’re prepping the salad in advance, leave the avocado unpeeled until just before serving to prevent it from turning brown. You can also store leftover avocado in an airtight container with a squeeze of lemon juice to keep it fresh longer.

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Yes, feel free to add any other vegetables you like. Bell peppers, radishes, or even roasted vegetables would pair nicely with this dish.

What other dressings can I use?

You can use a variety of dressings like balsamic vinaigrette, tahini dressing, or a simple mustard-based vinaigrette.

How many calories does this salad have?

Each serving of this avocado chicken salad contains approximately 635 calories, with 44g of protein, making it a great option for a filling meal.

Can I make this salad without sesame oil?

Yes, sesame oil is optional, but it adds a nice flavor. You can skip it or replace it with a bit more olive oil.

Conclusion

This high-protein avocado chicken salad is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal perfect for busy days. Whether you're looking for a filling lunch or dinner, it offers all the essential nutrients to keep you satisfied. It’s also a great meal prep option for anyone looking to eat clean without spending hours in the kitchen.