Refreshing Avocado Chicken Salad with Mango and Lime Dressing
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A Summer Dish Bursting With Flavor
The inspiration for this Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad came to me during one of those perfect summer afternoons when all you want is something light, fresh, and bursting with flavor. I remember it vividly—my family and I were at the local farmers’ market, which is always a sensory delight. The colors, the smells, the sounds of vendors passionately describing their produce—it all makes for a fantastic experience. That day, the avocados were perfectly ripe, and the mangoes were practically glowing with their golden hue.
As we walked through the stalls, I started thinking about how these vibrant ingredients could come together in a dish that would not only satisfy our taste buds but also keep us cool and refreshed in the summer heat. I wanted something quick and easy, a dish that wouldn’t require much time in the kitchen but would still be a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Making Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad At Home
Back home, I decided to poach some chicken breasts—a method that keeps the chicken tender and moist while being incredibly simple. As I prepped the ingredients, I started imagining how the creamy avocado would pair with the sweet mango, the juicy tomatoes, and the slight crunch of fresh corn. But the dressing was where I really wanted to bring in a zing—a lime-cilantro vinaigrette with just a hint of heat from jalapeño.
When I tossed everything together, the salad came alive with color and flavor. Each bite was a perfect balance—the creaminess of the avocado, the sweetness of the mango, the savory chicken, and the zesty, tangy dressing tying it all together. It was one of those moments where you know you’ve hit the mark, creating something that’s not only delicious but also nourishing and satisfying.
This Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad has since become a staple in our household, especially during the warmer months. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even a potluck. And every time I make it, I’m reminded of that sunny day at the farmers’ market, where the simple joys of fresh, seasonal produce sparked the creation of this delightful recipe.
Chef’s Notes – Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad
- Ripe Avocados: Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure. Overripe avocados can become mushy, which will affect the texture of the salad.
- Chicken: Poach the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save time when assembling the salad.
- Dressing: Prepare the dressing in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake it vigorously to emulsify the ingredients thoroughly. This method makes the dressing smooth and evenly mixed.
- Customization: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like black beans, grilled corn, or even some nuts for extra crunch and protein.
- Serving: For a fun presentation, serve the salad in avocado halves or lettuce cups, especially for gatherings or picnics. Pair it with this Corn Salad or experiment with other chicken dishes like this classic salad.
Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad
4
servings15
minutes20
minutes350
kcal35
minutesDive into a burst of flavors with this Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad! Perfectly poached chicken, creamy avocados, and sweet mango come together in a delightful mix, all drizzled with a tangy lime dressing. This salad is not just healthy but also incredibly easy to make. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a fresh, vibrant meal. Get ready to impress your taste buds!
Ingredients
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts poached and diced into small pieces
2 ripe avocados cut into cubes
1 small ripe mango diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes quartered
1/2 cup corn kernels fresh or thawed from frozen
1/4 medium red onion thinly sliced
1/4 cup lime juice freshly squeezed
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons cilantro leaves fresh, finely chopped
1 tablespoon jalapeño pepper minced
2 teaspoons honey
kosher salt to taste
black pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice, extra-virgin olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño, and honey until well combined. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the poached and diced chicken breasts, cubed avocados, diced mango, quartered cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. This step should take about 10 minutes.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the salad to serving plates or bowls and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Potassium: 800mg
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 10g
- Vitamin A: 15IU
- Vitamin C: 40mg
- Calcium: 4mg
- Iron: 10mg
Classic Chicken Salad
Cooks in 30 minutesDifficulty: EasyDive into the delightful world of our Classic Chicken Salad! This recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing that will leave your taste buds dancing. It’s not just a salad; it’s a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, this dish is sure to impress. Get ready to enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite!
Vibrant Summer Corn Salad
Cooks in 28 minutesDifficulty: EasyDive into the flavors of summer with this Vibrant Summer Corn Salad! Featuring the sweetest corn, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all tossed in a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for BBQs, family gatherings, or a light dinner, this salad is a must-try. The combination of fresh ingredients and a tangy dressing will make your taste buds dance. Don’t miss out on this seasonal delight!
FAQs – Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad
Can I prepare the Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but it’s best to add the avocado and dressing just before serving to keep the avocado fresh and the salad from becoming soggy.
How do I poach the chicken breasts?
Place the chicken breasts in a saucepan, cover them with water or broth, and bring to a simmer. Cook gently for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. Let it cool before dicing.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Toss the avocado cubes in a bit of lime juice before adding them to the Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad. The acidity helps prevent browning.
