Lean Chicken Avocado Salad
A refreshing and protein-packed salad combining tender grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and crisp greens tossed in a zesty lemon-herb dressing.
Ingredients
- •2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450g)
- •2 ripe Hass avocados, diced
- •5 cups mixed salad greens or baby spinach
- •1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- •1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- •3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- •2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- •1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- •1 clove garlic, minced
- •1/2 teaspoon salt
- •1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- •1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- 1
Season the chicken breasts evenly with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- 2
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat with a light drizzle of oil, then cook the chicken for 8 to 10 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- 3
Remove the chicken from the heat, let it rest for 5 minutes, and then slice or cube into bite-sized pieces.
- 4
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, remaining salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- 5
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
- 6
Add the diced avocados and warm or cooled sliced chicken on top of the greens.
- 7
Drizzle the lemon-herb dressing evenly over the salad right before serving and toss gently to combine.
💡 Chef tips
- To make ahead, prepare the chicken and dressing in advance, but only cut and add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
- You can substitute the mixed greens with crisp romaine lettuce or arugula depending on your preference.
- Store any leftover dressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day, though it is best enjoyed fresh.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished salad is vibrant and colorful with tender, juicy chicken, buttery avocado, and a bright, zesty citrus dressing that ties all the fresh ingredients together.