The Best Creamy Chicken Avocado Egg Salad You’ll Ever Make
Chicken avocado egg salad has become a sensation for good reason – one version of this protein-packed dish went viral with over 50 million views! I discovered why this combination works so perfectly when I started making it regularly in my own kitchen. Ready in only 15 minutes, this flavorful mix of creamy avocados, tender chicken, and hard-boiled eggs creates a satisfying meal that fits perfectly into busy schedules.
Our avocado chicken salad recipe combines 1.5 pounds of chicken breast with 6 large hard-boiled eggs for maximum protein. Furthermore, the addition of bacon, corn, and a zesty lemon dill dressing elevates this chicken and egg salad recipe to something truly special. Each cup-sized serving delivers approximately 324 calories, 26g of protein, and 20g of fat, making the chicken egg avocado salad both nutritious and filling. What I certainly love about this chicken avocado egg salad recipe is its versatility – serve it in croissants, pita bread, or lettuce wraps for a meal that never gets boring. Even better, you can prepare it ahead and store it for 4-5 days, specifically perfect for weekly meal prep.
What You Need to Make This Chicken Avocado Egg Salad
Creating the perfect chicken avocado egg salad starts with gathering high-quality ingredients. Let me walk you through everything you’ll need to make this protein-packed dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Chicken: rotisserie, grilled, or canned
The foundation of this salad begins with chicken, and you have several excellent options. Store-bought rotisserie chicken provides incredible flavor with minimal effort – simply shred the meat and you’re ready to go. Alternatively, grilled chicken breasts offer a leaner option with a slightly smoky taste. If you’re short on time, canned chicken works remarkably well too. For optimal results, you’ll need about 1.5-2 cups of diced or shredded chicken.
Avocados: ripe and creamy
Selecting the right avocados makes all the difference in this recipe. Look for Haas avocados that are just ripe – not too hard but not overly soft. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure. These creamy fruits not only add rich texture but also provide healthy fats and fiber that help keep you full longer. You’ll typically need 1-2 medium avocados depending on your preference for creaminess.
Eggs: hard-boiled for texture and protein
Hard-boiled eggs are crucial for both texture and nutrition in this salad. Six large eggs create the perfect balance, adding substantial protein while creating a velvety texture. For best results, avoid over-boiling – that green tinge around the yolk indicates they’ve cooked too long. Proper hard-boiled eggs should have bright yellow centers.
Other add-ins: bacon, corn, onion, herbs
These additions transform a basic salad into something extraordinary. Crispy bacon adds smoky richness – just 2-4 strips crumbled will do the trick. Sweet corn kernels provide delightful bursts of flavor and texture. For onions, red onion offers vibrant color and sharp flavor, though green onions or shallots work well for a milder taste. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and chives bring brightness – don’t skip them!
Dressing ingredients: lemon, mustard, yogurt or mayo
The dressing brings everything together harmoniously. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness while helping prevent avocado browning. Dijon mustard (about 1-2 tablespoons) provides tanginess and helps emulsify the dressing. For the creamy base, you have options: traditional mayo for richness, Greek yogurt for a protein boost and tangier flavor, or a combination of both. Many recipes suggest using just enough to bind ingredients without overwhelming them.
Moreover, additional seasonings like salt, pepper, and occasionally paprika or curry powder can elevate the flavor profile even further.
How to Make the Best Chicken Avocado Egg Salad
Making the perfect chicken avocado egg salad is surprisingly simple. The secret lies in the preparation technique and combining ingredients in the right order. Let me guide you through this straightforward process.
Step 1: Prepare and chop all ingredients
Begin by dicing or shredding your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and placing them in a large mixing bowl. For eggs, ensure they’re properly hard-boiled without that unappetizing green ring around the yolk, then chop them into small chunks. Next, carefully peel and dice your ripe avocados into similar-sized pieces. Remember to handle avocados with care – kitchen injuries from cutting avocados are surprisingly common! Additionally, chop your celery, onion, herbs, and any other add-ins like bacon or corn to have everything ready.
Step 2: Mix the creamy dressing
In a separate small bowl, combine the dressing ingredients. For a classic approach, whisk together 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1-2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, a splash of lemon juice, and your preferred seasonings. Alternatively, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangier, protein-rich option. Whisk until your dressing achieves a smooth, velvety consistency. This separate mixing prevents over-stirring your main ingredients.
Step 3: Combine and gently toss
Now comes the crucial part – adding the dressing to your prepared ingredients. Pour the dressing over your chicken, eggs, avocado, and other ingredients in the large bowl. Subsequently, use a rubber spatula or large spoon to fold everything together with a light touch. This gentle folding motion preserves the texture of your eggs and prevents the avocado from becoming mushy. The goal is to coat everything evenly without turning it into paste.
Step 4: Adjust seasoning to taste
Before serving, take a moment to taste your creation. Afterward, add additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. The flavors will be slightly muted when served on bread or with other accompaniments, so it’s better to season a bit more assertively than you might think necessary. A final sprinkle of fresh herbs on top adds visual appeal and a burst of flavor.
Serving Ideas for Every Occasion
The versatility of chicken avocado egg salad truly shines when it comes to serving options. This protein-packed mixture adapts beautifully to various presentations, making it perfect for everything from casual lunches to elegant appetizers.
In sandwiches or wraps
This delicious avocado chicken egg salad reaches new heights when served between bread or wrapped in a tortilla. Try it on a toasted bun for a filling lunch or tucked into warm pita bread for a quick meal. For a more indulgent option, croissants provide a buttery complement to the creamy salad. Wraps offer a portable solution – simply fold the chicken egg avocado salad into a tortilla with some extra greens or cheese. Parents take note: this approach works wonderfully for kids’ lunches, as you can pack components separately to prevent soggy bread.
On top of greens or grain bowls
For a lighter yet satisfying option, spoon your chicken avocado egg salad over fresh greens or create a nourishing grain bowl. A simple side salad drizzled with vinaigrette creates a perfectly balanced meal. Alternatively, use the mixture as the protein component in a hearty grain bowl with quinoa or rice as the base. This method works particularly well for meal prep – just store the components separately and assemble when ready to eat. The combination of whole grains, vegetables, and protein-rich chicken egg avocado salad creates a nutritionally complete meal.
With crackers or tortilla chips
Transform your avocado chicken salad recipe into an impressive appetizer by serving it alongside crisp crackers or tortilla chips. This presentation is ideal for gatherings where guests can help themselves. Buttery crackers provide a delightful contrast to the creamy texture, or try serving with pita chips for a Mediterranean twist. Consequently, this serving style makes for elegant yet easy entertaining – simply place the salad in a bowl surrounded by your dipping vehicle of choice.
In lettuce cups for a low-carb option
Perhaps the most refreshing way to enjoy chicken avocado egg salad is in crisp lettuce cups. Butter lettuce or bibb lettuce makes an excellent choice with its tender yet sturdy leaves that form natural cups. Romaine provides a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy filling. This serving method is particularly appealing to those following low-carb or gluten-free diets, as the lettuce replaces traditional bread or wraps without sacrificing satisfaction. Plus, the fresh vegetables add nutritional value alongside visual appeal.
How to Store and Keep It Fresh
Proper storage makes all the difference between enjoying leftover chicken avocado egg salad or tossing it in the trash. First of all, let’s explore how to maintain the freshness of this protein-packed dish.
Refrigeration tips
Storing your chicken avocado egg salad properly starts with an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. Place this container in the coldest part of your refrigerator, typically toward the back rather than in the door. Always remember the “danger zone” rule – bacteria multiply rapidly between 40°F and 140°F, so never leave your salad sitting out at room temperature for more than two hours. During hot weather above 90°F, reduce this time to just one hour. The clock starts ticking as soon as ingredients come out of refrigeration.
How long it lasts
Even when properly stored, chicken avocado egg salad has a relatively short shelf life. Most sources agree that the salad will remain fresh for 3-4 days when refrigerated in an airtight container. Although some recipes claim 5 days, it’s safer to consume within the shorter timeframe. Freezing is not recommended as the texture will change dramatically – mayo may separate, yogurt can curdle, and the entire mixture can become watery upon thawing.
Preventing avocado browning
The avocado in your chicken egg avocado salad will naturally start to darken due to oxidation, which doesn’t mean it’s spoiled but affects visual appeal. Several methods can delay browning:
- Citrus shield: Brush avocado with lemon or lime juice before adding to the salad – the acids slow oxidation
- Plastic wrap contact: For storing leftovers, press plastic wrap directly against the surface of the salad to minimize air exposure
- Oil barrier: A thin layer of olive oil can create a protective shield against oxygen
Make-ahead tips
For the freshest chicken avocado egg salad recipe, consider component preparation. Hard-boil eggs up to a week ahead but wait to peel until you’re ready to make the salad. Chop vegetables like cucumber, onions, and tomatoes up to 24 hours before assembly. The dressing can be prepared up to 5 days ahead and stored separately. Most importantly, add avocado last – this single step significantly reduces browning. For maximum convenience, store all prepared components separately and combine just before serving.
Conclusion
After exploring this protein-packed chicken avocado egg salad recipe, you now have all the tools to create this delicious dish at home. The combination of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and perfectly boiled eggs certainly creates a meal that satisfies both nutritional needs and taste buds. This versatile recipe works wonderfully as a sandwich filling, atop fresh greens, with crackers, or in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
One aspect I particularly appreciate about this dish is its time-saving quality. Ready in just 15 minutes yet packed with 26g of protein per serving, it fits perfectly into busy lifestyles without sacrificing nutrition. Additionally, the make-ahead preparation tips allow for convenient meal planning throughout the week.
Remember that proper storage makes all the difference when preserving leftover chicken avocado egg salad. Using airtight containers, adding citrus to prevent browning, and consuming within 3-4 days will ensure your creation stays fresh and delicious.
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, meal prep solution, or crowd-pleasing appetizer, this chicken avocado egg salad recipe delivers on all fronts. The next time you find yourself with leftover chicken or hard-boiled eggs, give this recipe a try—your taste buds and schedule will thank you!
FAQs
Q1. How long can I store chicken avocado egg salad in the refrigerator? When stored in an airtight container in the coldest part of your refrigerator, chicken avocado egg salad typically remains fresh for 3-4 days. It’s best to consume it within this timeframe for optimal taste and safety.
Q2. What’s the best way to prevent avocado browning in the salad? To prevent avocado browning, brush the avocado pieces with lemon or lime juice before adding them to the salad. When storing leftovers, press plastic wrap directly against the surface of the salad to minimize air exposure. Adding avocado last when preparing the salad also helps reduce browning.
Q3. Can I make chicken avocado egg salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare components ahead of time. Hard-boil eggs up to a week in advance, chop vegetables 24 hours before, and prepare the dressing up to 5 days ahead. Store these components separately and combine just before serving for the freshest result.
Q4. What are some creative ways to serve chicken avocado egg salad? This versatile salad can be served in various ways. Try it in sandwiches or wraps, on top of fresh greens or grain bowls, with crackers or tortilla chips as an appetizer, or in lettuce cups for a low-carb option. Each serving method offers a unique dining experience.
Q5. How can I adjust the flavors of my chicken avocado egg salad? To adjust the flavors, taste the salad before serving and add additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Remember that flavors may be slightly muted when served with bread or other accompaniments, so it’s better to season a bit more assertively. A final sprinkle of fresh herbs can also enhance the flavor and visual appeal.