Greek Avocado Chicken Salad
Introduction
Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our Greek Avocado Chicken Salad. This refreshing and nutritious dish brings together the richness of chicken and avocado, the tartness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the savory taste of kalamata olives, all enhanced by creamy feta and crunchy pine nuts. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, this salad captures the essence of Greek cuisine.
Why Make This Recipe
This Greek Avocado Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. The combination of ingredients offers a unique flavor profile that satisfies your cravings while providing healthy fats from the avocado and protein from the chicken. Summertime or anytime, this salad is a perfect fit to keep your meals light and flavorful.
How to Make Greek Avocado Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2-4 cups shredded chicken
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ red onion, sliced
- ½ cup halved kalamata olives
- One 12-ounce jar of julienned sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and rinsed
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup pine nuts (toasting optional for enhanced flavor)
Dressing:
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (0% fat recommended for a lighter option)
- ¼ cup reduced-fat mayo (or substitute with extra Greek yogurt for a healthier twist)
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill, or ¼ cup chopped fresh dill for a burst of freshness
- ½ teaspoon sugar to balance the tartness
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- Juice of ½ lemon
Directions:
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sliced avocado, red onion, kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and pine nuts. If you choose to toast the pine nuts, do it in a dry pan over medium heat until they are golden, and allow them to cool before adding to the salad.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl or jar with a tight lid, mix together the olive oil, Greek yogurt, mayo, salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried dill, sugar, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice. Whisk or shake well until it becomes a smooth dressing.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are coated in the dressing, enhancing each bite with delightful flavors. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve: This salad can be enjoyed right away or chilled in the refrigerator for a while to let the flavors meld beautifully. It’s a great standalone meal or an excellent side for your summer barbecues.
How to Serve Greek Avocado Chicken Salad
Serve your Greek Avocado Chicken Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with extra crumbled feta or a sprinkle of fresh dill for an attractive presentation. This salad pairs wonderfully with whole-grain pita bread or crusty baguette and a glass of iced tea.
How to Store Greek Avocado Chicken Salad
To keep your salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days to ensure the avocado stays vibrant and doesn’t brown. If possible, store the dressing separately to maintain the salad’s texture.
Tips to Make Greek Avocado Chicken Salad
- Avocado: Choose ripe avocados for creaminess. If you prefer a chunkier salad, you can slice the avocado instead of mashing it.
- Chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience, or poach fresh chicken breast for a healthier option.
- Toasting Pine Nuts: Toasting adds depth to the flavor. Be careful not to burn them; they should be golden and fragrant.
Variation
Feel free to customize this salad! You can add chopped cucumbers for added crunch or substitute grilled shrimp for chicken for a protein twist. For a vegan option, use chickpeas instead of chicken and non-dairy yogurt for the dressing.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch. Just drain and shred it before adding to the salad.
2. How long will the salad last in the fridge?
The salad is best consumed within 2 days, especially to prevent the avocado from browning.
3. Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead. Just add the dressing right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Enjoy this delightful Greek Avocado Chicken Salad, embracing a healthy and savory taste of Greece!