Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime

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Introduction

If you’re looking for a bold, smoky, and creamy dish that’s both healthy and satisfying, this Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime is a must-try! Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy avocado, smoky chipotle peppers, and zesty lime juice, this salad bursts with flavor in every bite.

Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also high in protein, low in carbs, and loaded with healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for anyone following a keto, paleo, or gluten-free diet. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, meaning you can enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

What’s great about this recipe is its versatility—enjoy it as a lettuce wrap, sandwich filling, or even on its own. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a meal-prep-friendly option, this Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime is the perfect addition to your recipe collection. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful dish step by step!

Why You’ll Love This Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime

Packed with Flavor

The combination of smoky chipotle, tangy lime, and creamy avocado creates a bold and well-balanced taste. Every bite is rich, zesty, and slightly spicy, making it a satisfying dish for any meal.

Healthy & Nutritious

This salad is packed with high-quality protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice. Avocado provides essential vitamins and minerals, while chicken keeps it protein-rich and filling. It’s a great option for those following a keto, paleo, or gluten-free diet.

Quick & Easy

With just a handful of simple ingredients, this salad comes together in 15-20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy days when you need a healthy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Chipotle Lime Chicken Salad

This Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime comes together with fresh, simple ingredients that add a balance of creaminess, spice, and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Protein

  • Cooked chicken breast – Grilled, shredded, or rotisserie chicken works well for this recipe.

Creamy Base

  • Mashed avocado – Provides a rich, creamy texture and healthy fats.
  • Greek yogurt or mayonnaise – Adds extra creaminess and a tangy flavor.

Flavor Boosters

  • Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce – Brings a smoky heat to the salad.
  • Fresh lime juice – Enhances the dish with a bright, zesty touch.
  • Garlic powder – Adds depth to the flavor.
  • Fresh cilantro – Gives the salad a fresh and herby taste.

Crunchy Additions

  • Red onion – Adds a mild sharpness and crunch.
  • Bell peppers – Bring a hint of sweetness and a crisp texture.
  • Lettuce – Serves as a fresh base or wrap option.

Optional Add-ins

  • Black beans – Adds fiber and extra protein.
  • Corn – Provides a subtle sweetness.
  • Cherry tomatoes – Adds a juicy, fresh element for a Mexican-style twist.

These ingredients create a well-balanced dish that is both flavorful and satisfying, perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.

Ingredients

Protein

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast (grilled, shredded, or rotisserie)

Creamy Base

  • 1 ripe avocado, mashed
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for extra richness)

Flavor Boosters

  • 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Crunchy Additions

  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1 cup lettuce, shredded (optional, for serving)

Optional Add-ins

  • ¼ cup black beans
  • ¼ cup corn
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Yield: About 4 cups

Key Features

High in protein – Keeps you full and energized.
Low-carb & keto-friendly – Perfect for a healthy lifestyle.
Gluten-free & dairy-free option – Swap Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives.
Quick & easy – Ready in just 15 minutes.


Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 320mg

This Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime is a delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime

This quick and easy recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. Follow this guide to create a flavorful, creamy, and protein-packed salad.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  • Cook and shred the chicken breast, or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • In a bowl, mash the avocado until it reaches a creamy consistency.

Step 2: Make the Chipotle Lime Dressing

  • In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt (or mayo), finely chopped chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic powder, and olive oil.
  • Stir or blend until smooth to create a spicy and zesty dressing.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

  • In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, mashed avocado, chopped red onion, and prepared dressing.
  • Toss everything together until the ingredients are well coated and evenly combined.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

  • Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra lime juice if needed.
  • Serve the salad in a variety of ways—over lettuce, in a wrap, as a sandwich filling, or on its own for a healthy, satisfying meal.

This Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime is perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or a light yet flavorful dinner.

Tips & Variations for the Best Avocado Chicken Salad

Make it Spicier

If you love heat, add extra chipotle peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to intensify the smoky flavor and spice level. You can also try using jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Make it Creamier

To make your salad even more indulgent, increase the amount of avocado or Greek yogurt. For a richer texture, you can also add a bit more mayo to enhance the creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

  • Lettuce wrap: Serve the salad in large lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.
  • Sandwich: Spread the salad on your favorite bread for a quick lunch.
  • Mixed greens: Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option.
  • Tortilla chips or whole-grain crackers: Pair your salad with crispy tortilla chips or whole-grain crackers for extra crunch and flavor.

FAQs About Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

2. How can I keep the avocado from browning?

To prevent the avocado from browning, add extra lime juice to the mixture and cover it with plastic wrap that touches the surface of the salad. This will help preserve its freshness.

3. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely! This salad is low-carb, high-protein, and packed with healthy fats, making it the perfect choice for a keto diet.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, make sure your avocados are ripe but not overripe, and your chicken is freshly cooked or high-quality rotisserie chicken.
  • Don’t Overmix: Gently toss the ingredients together so that the avocado stays chunky and adds a creamy texture to each bite.
  • Balance the Spice: Taste the dressing as you go, and adjust the chipotle peppers and lime juice to suit your spice preference. You can always add more lime for extra tang or more chipotle for heat.
  • Customize It: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different add-ins like avocado slices, cilantro, or even a sprinkle of cheese for a different twist on flavor.

You’ll Also Love

  • Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado and Balsamic Glaze: If you’re a fan of avocado salads, this one offers a tangy balsamic twist paired with grilled chicken.
  • Spicy Tuna Salad with Avocado: A seafood variation of this salad, combining tuna, creamy avocado, and a touch of spice for a refreshing, protein-packed meal.
  • Chipotle Chicken Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb, portable meal, try serving chipotle chicken in lettuce wraps with a creamy dressing.
  • Southwest Chicken Salad: A hearty salad with black beans, corn, avocado, and a tangy chipotle dressing—perfect for those who love bold flavors!

Conclusion

This Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime is the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, meal prep, or a light dinner, it’s a flavorful and healthy choice that’s sure to satisfy. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different add-ins to make it your own!

Give this Avocado Chicken Salad with Chipotle and Lime a try! Don’t forget to share your delicious creation on Instagram using #BeesRecipes – we’d love to see your version!