Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich
Highlighted under: Lean & Light Cooking
I absolutely love creating fresh and hearty sandwiches, and this Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich has quickly become one of my favorites. The creamy avocado mixed with tender chicken and a zesty dressing makes for a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether I'm enjoying it for lunch or a quick dinner, this sandwich is a classic that never disappoints. It's a simple recipe that packs a nutritional punch while being so easy to assemble, making it ideal for busy days or laid-back weekends with family.
When I first made this Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich, I couldn't believe how quickly it came together. I experimented with different combinations of ingredients, and I found that the blend of diced avocado, seasoned chicken, and crunchy celery was just perfect. The lemon juice adds a refreshing tang that brightens the dish, and it’s so enjoyable to savor each bite.
One of my favorite tips is to chill the chicken salad for a bit before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that each bite is packed with a harmonious taste. Plus, it makes for a great meal prep option—just scoop it onto bread whenever you’re ready to feast!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy avocado provides a rich texture without the need for heavy dressings.
- Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from fresh vegetables.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends.
Perfecting the Chicken Salad
The foundation of this Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich lies in the shredded chicken, which can be prepared in various ways. Whether you opt for poaching, grilling, or using rotisserie chicken for convenience, aim for tender, moist chicken. To ensure a flavorful mix, consider marinating the chicken briefly in lemon juice and herbs before cooking; this enhances its natural flavor and keeps it juicy.
When combining ingredients, it's essential to balance the creaminess of the avocado with the crunch of the celery and the sharpness of the red onion. Mixing these ingredients only until they are just combined helps retain some texture, preventing the salad from becoming a mushy paste. Taste as you go, adjusting seasoning as needed to highlight the freshness of the ingredients.
Choosing the Right Bread
Selecting the right bread can elevate your Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich. Whole grain bread is a nutritional powerhouse, providing additional fiber and nutrients. However, feel free to explore variations such as sourdough, multigrain, or even gluten-free options. If you prefer a lighter touch, consider using lettuce leaves as a wrap, which will provide a fresh crunch without the carbs.
When preparing your sandwich, lightly toasting the bread can add a delightful crunch and prevent sogginess from the moist chicken salad. Keep an eye on the bread while toasting; it should take 2-3 minutes per side on medium heat until it’s golden brown and crisp. This simple step enhances both texture and flavor, creating a more satisfying eating experience.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
If you're making this chicken salad ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 2-3 days, but keep in mind that the avocado's color may darken slightly. To minimize browning, consider adding a bit of extra lemon juice before storing. This will keep the salad looking vibrant and appetizing longer.
For serving, this sandwich pairs wonderfully with a light side, such as a fresh fruit salad or vegetable sticks. The combination of flavors and textures enhances the overall meal experience. You can also switch things up by adding extras such as sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, or avocado slices inside the sandwich for an added layer of freshness.
Ingredients
Gather the following fresh ingredients to create your Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Whole grain bread or your choice of sandwich bread
- Lettuce or spinach leaves
Mix the ingredients well to ensure even distribution of flavors!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to assemble your delicious sandwich:
Prepare the Chicken Salad
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mashed avocado, diced celery, diced red onion, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Sandwich
Take two slices of whole grain bread and layer lettuce or spinach on one slice. Spoon the chicken salad mixture generously on top of the greens. Place the second slice of bread on top and gently press down.
Serve and Enjoy
Cut the sandwich in half for easy handling and serve immediately. Enjoy your tantalizing Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich!
This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge if needed.
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken salad mixture.
Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe is quite flexible regarding ingredients. If you don't have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with mayonnaise or a vegan alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Additionally, for those who are sensitive to onion, using green onions can provide a milder flavor without losing the crunch you desire.
You can also experiment with the types of herbs you add. Fresh dill or cilantro can provide a unique flavor twist. Just a handful can brighten the overall taste of the salad. This adaptability allows you to tailor the sandwich to your taste preferences or dietary restrictions while still maintaining the essence of the dish.
Scaling the Recipe
This Avocado Chicken Salad can easily be scaled up for gatherings. Doubling or tripling the recipe requires minimal adjustments. Just ensure you have a large enough mixing bowl to accommodate the ingredients. The same ratios apply, so no complicated recalculations are needed; simply increase as desired. This makes serving a crowd manageable and stress-free.
If you want to create a variety platter, consider mixing different variations of chicken salad. Adding ingredients like diced apples for sweetness or chopped nuts for crunch can provide a delightful assortment for guests. Just keep each batch separate to allow for customization when serving, ensuring everyone can enjoy their perfect bite!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, canned chicken can be used as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to drain it well before mixing!
→ How long can I store the chicken salad?
The chicken salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of bread or even wraps if you prefer.
→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this chicken salad stores well and can be made in advance, making it perfect for meal prep.
Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich
I absolutely love creating fresh and hearty sandwiches, and this Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich has quickly become one of my favorites. The creamy avocado mixed with tender chicken and a zesty dressing makes for a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether I'm enjoying it for lunch or a quick dinner, this sandwich is a classic that never disappoints. It's a simple recipe that packs a nutritional punch while being so easy to assemble, making it ideal for busy days or laid-back weekends with family.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Whole grain bread or your choice of sandwich bread
- Lettuce or spinach leaves
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mashed avocado, diced celery, diced red onion, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Take two slices of whole grain bread and layer lettuce or spinach on one slice. Spoon the chicken salad mixture generously on top of the greens. Place the second slice of bread on top and gently press down.
Cut the sandwich in half for easy handling and serve immediately. Enjoy your tantalizing Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken salad mixture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g