Creamy & Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad Dip: Your Go-To Easy Recipe
Indulge in the vibrant flavors and incredibly creamy texture of this delightful Avocado Chicken Salad Dip. Packed with succulent chunks of savory chicken, velvety ripe avocado, and a delightful crunch from fresh onions, all enrobed in a zesty, flavorful dressing made from sour cream, bright lemon juice, and a blend of aromatic spices, this dip is a true culinary masterpiece. More than just an appetizer, this versatile dish can be served in a multitude of ways: pile it high on crispy toast points, scoop it with your favorite crackers or crunchy tortilla chips, or even tuck it into crisp lettuce wraps for a refreshing and light lunch. It’s a perfect blend of healthy ingredients and satisfying taste, making it ideal for any occasion.
One of life’s simple pleasures is gathering with loved ones, especially when everyone contributes a dish to share. Potlucks are truly a wonderful tradition; they not only lighten the load for the host but also offer an exciting opportunity to sample an array of delicious homemade foods. This past summer, I had the pleasure of attending such a gathering hosted by my dear friend, Amy. She welcomed a small group of us into her beautiful home, where her tranquil backyard provided the perfect setting. We sat around her charming outdoor table, sharing laughter, stories, and of course, an abundance of incredibly yummy food. Among the many delectable items, Amy’s Avocado Chicken Salad Dip stood out as a clear favorite. From the very first bite, I was captivated by its freshness and flavor, immediately knowing I had to get my hands on the recipe. It was light, yet satisfying, and boasted a unique creaminess that left a lasting impression. This dip isn’t just a recipe; it’s a memory of good times and great company, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
Why You’ll Love This Avocado Chicken Salad Dip Recipe
Get ready to discover your new favorite appetizer or light meal! This incredible avocado chicken salad dip takes the best qualities of creamy guacamole and marries them with the satisfying heartiness of chicken salad, creating a dish that is truly more than the sum of its parts. It’s incredibly filling and deeply satisfying, making it a healthy avocado chicken salad that’s perfect for scooping and dipping. Imagine serving this vibrant, flavorful dip as a star appetizer at your next family gathering, a casual backyard barbecue, or even packed for a delightful picnic outing. Its fresh ingredients and lively taste make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe. This dip isn’t just delicious; it’s a smart, healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction.
If you find yourself falling in love with this unique avocado chicken salad recipe, you’ll be delighted to explore some of my other favorite dip creations. They’re equally delicious and perfect for sharing: consider whipping up my nostalgic Chicken In A Biskit Dip, the wonderfully savory and popular Crab Rangoon Dip, or the unexpected yet incredibly delicious Sauerkraut, Bacon, and Swiss Dip. Each offers a distinct flavor profile, ensuring there’s a dip for every craving and occasion!
Refreshing Mayo-Free Avocado Chicken Salad Dip
Especially fantastic for those warm summer days, this incredibly refreshing avocado chicken salad dip stands out for its versatility and health benefits. It’s completely mayo-free, relying on the natural creaminess of avocado and a tangy sour cream or Greek yogurt base for its rich texture. This makes it a lighter option without sacrificing any of the satisfying flavors. You can enjoy this delicious dip in countless ways: serve generous scoops on a crisp bed of romaine lettuce for a simple yet elegant presentation, or get hands-on and layer the dip inside large lettuce leaves to create refreshing and healthy lettuce wraps. For a heartier meal, spread the creamy avocado chicken dip generously onto your favorite sandwich bread, and you’ve instantly got the ideal, wholesome chicken salad sandwich perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple for healthy and delicious eating.
Essential Ingredients for a Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad
Crafting this healthy and flavorful avocado chicken salad dip requires just a handful of fresh, simple ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dip’s signature taste and texture. For a comprehensive list of ingredients and detailed instructions, remember to scroll to the bottom of this post where you’ll find the full printable recipe card. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Avocado – The star of the show! You’ll want to use large, ripe avocados, diced into creamy chunks. Ripe avocados are essential for that luxurious, buttery texture. Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure.
- Chicken breast – For convenience and flavor, use cooked and diced boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This is a fantastic way to use up leftover shredded chicken from a previous meal. If you’re short on time or fresh chicken, canned chicken breast can also work beautifully; just be sure to drain it thoroughly.
- Onion – A finely diced onion adds a wonderful aromatic punch and a bit of crispness. While I typically opt for yellow onion for its balanced flavor, red onion offers a sharper, more vibrant hue and taste, green onion provides a milder, fresher bite, and white onion is a great all-around choice. Choose what you prefer!
- Cilantro – Freshly chopped cilantro is key! Its bright, herbaceous notes perfectly complement the rich avocado and savory chicken, lifting the entire flavor profile of the dip.
- Sour cream – Full-fat sour cream lends a luscious richness and tang to the dressing, binding all the ingredients together beautifully. For a lighter, protein-packed alternative, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute, offering a similar creaminess with a slightly sharper tang.
- Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always recommended for its unparalleled brightness and ability to prevent the avocado from browning. However, bottled lemon juice will also work in a pinch. If you enjoy a slightly different citrus note, lime juice makes a fantastic alternative.
- Spices – A simple yet effective blend of garlic salt, cumin, and black pepper provides a warm, earthy depth that ties all the flavors together harmoniously. These spices elevate the chicken and avocado without overpowering them.
- Hot sauce – This is where you can customize the heat! Add your favorite hot sauce – whether it’s sriracha, Tabasco, or even some hot wing sauce – to spice it up or down according to your preference. For a truly exciting twist, consider making it a Buffalo chicken salad!
Simple Steps to Make This Amazing Chicken Avocado Dip
Preparing this creamy and delicious chicken avocado dip is incredibly straightforward and takes just a few minutes of active time. It’s a perfect recipe for when you need a quick appetizer or a fast, healthy meal solution. Here’s how effortlessly it comes together:
First, ensure your chicken is ready. Dice or shred your cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. The texture is up to you – some prefer finely diced for a smoother dip, while others enjoy larger chunks. For an extra layer of flavor, consider grilling the chicken beforehand; it imparts a subtle “charred” taste that beautifully complements the avocado and spices, though this step is entirely optional.
Next, take all of your prepped ingredients – the diced avocado, chicken, chopped onion, fresh cilantro, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, garlic salt, cumin, black pepper, and hot sauce – and add them to a large mixing bowl. Make sure the bowl is spacious enough to allow for easy mixing without spills.
With all the ingredients in the bowl, gently stir to combine everything thoroughly. Be careful not to mash the avocado too much if you prefer distinct chunks. Mix until all components are evenly distributed and coated in the creamy dressing.
Finally, it’s time to serve! This versatile dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers. Arrange it alongside an assortment of crisp crackers, fresh chopped vegetables (like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots), warm pita slices, or crunchy taco chips. It’s also fantastic on toasted bread or as a filling for lettuce wraps.
Should you have any delicious leftovers, this avocado chicken salad dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To help prevent the avocado from browning, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the dip before sealing the container. You can serve it cold, straight from the fridge, or allow it to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to enhance its flavors. I generally don’t recommend freezing leftovers, as the avocado’s texture can become unpleasantly mushy upon thawing, diminishing the overall quality of the dip.
Love it? Pin it!
If you’re as enamored with this recipe for the best avocado chicken salad dip as I am, don’t let it get lost in the shuffle! Make sure to save it for later by pinning it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you move on. That way, you’ll always have this delicious, healthy, and easy recipe at your fingertips!
More Irresistible Dip Recipes
I confess, I’m an enormous fan of dip recipes! There’s something inherently communal and satisfying about a good dip, making it perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in. I get incredibly excited whenever I discover a new, fantastic dip to share with you, and this Avocado Chicken Salad Dip is a prime example! My collection boasts a wide array of dip recipes, both hot and cold, designed to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re looking for something creamy, spicy, savory, or sweet, I’ve got you covered.
Before you go, take a peek at some of these other delightful dip creations:
Chicken in A Biskit Dip for a wonderfully nostalgic, cheesy bite;
Hot Taco Five Bean Dip, a spicy and hearty option perfect for game day;
My Award Winning Crack Dip, a fan-favorite that lives up to its name;
The refreshingly sweet Vanilla Almond Fruit Dip, ideal for fruit platters;
The comforting Crock Pot Reuben Dip, a warm and savory classic;
Or the incredibly versatile Everything Bagel Dip, which pairs with almost anything!
See All of My Delicious Dip Recipes Here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Got questions about this amazing Avocado Chicken Salad Dip? Here are some common queries and their detailed answers to help you perfect your dish:
- Can you make chicken salad with avocado? Absolutely, and it’s a fantastic idea! Avocado truly transforms chicken salad by adding a luxurious, creamy depth of flavor, a wonderful texture, and a boost of healthy monounsaturated fats. It’s a game-changer compared to traditional mayo-based recipes.
- Can I use canned chicken instead of cooking a chicken breast? Yes, you certainly can! Canned chicken is a perfectly convenient and time-saving option, especially for busy days. Just be sure to drain it very well and flake it apart before incorporating it into the dip to avoid excess moisture.
- Can I make this dip in advance? You can definitely prepare most of the components of this dip in advance and store them in the refrigerator. However, for the best results and to minimize browning, it is highly recommended to add the fresh avocado just before you plan to serve the dip. The lemon juice in the recipe helps, but adding avocado last ensures the freshest appearance.
- Is this dip really spicy? The hot sauce in this recipe provides a subtle kick, adding an exciting layer of flavor without being overwhelmingly spicy. The beauty is that the heat level is easily adjustable. Start with a small amount, like the two dashes suggested, and then gradually increase it to match your personal preference for spice.
- Can I make this dip vegan-friendly? Yes, with a few thoughtful substitutions, you can easily adapt this recipe to be entirely vegan. Simply replace the chicken with a plant-based protein such as well-drained, diced firm tofu, mashed chickpeas, or even cannellini beans. For the creamy base, use a dairy-free sour cream alternative or a plain, unsweetened plant-based yogurt.
- Is this dip suitable for a low-carb or keto diet? Absolutely! This recipe is inherently low-carb and can be perfectly adapted for a keto diet. To keep it keto-friendly, simply omit the crackers, tortilla chips, and pita bread when serving. Instead, opt for fresh, crisp low-carb vegetables like sliced cucumber, celery sticks, bell pepper strips, or even sturdy romaine lettuce leaves for dipping.
Creative Substitutions to Customize Your Dip
When it comes to recipes, don’t be afraid to experiment and make them truly your own! Customizing dishes with substitutions that suit your personal taste, dietary needs, or what you have on hand can lead to wonderful new discoveries. This Avocado Chicken Salad Dip is incredibly forgiving and open to creative swaps. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
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Protein Alternatives: Instead of chicken, you could easily substitute cooked and shredded turkey for a similar flavor profile. Canned tuna, thoroughly drained, also makes for a delicious and quick swap, transforming it into an avocado tuna salad dip.
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Onion Variations: While yellow onion provides a classic base, feel free to swap it out for milder chives, which offer a delicate onion flavor, or vibrant green onions (scallions) for a fresh, slightly peppery kick. Finely diced shallots can also add a subtle, sophisticated sweetness.
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Herb Choices: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, or if you simply want to change things up, substitute fresh parsley for a brighter, more earthy taste. A combination of both cilantro and parsley can also add complexity, or even a touch of fresh dill for a unique twist.
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Creamy Base Options: For a lighter and tangier profile, opt for plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Ensure it’s unsweetened and unflavored to maintain the savory balance of the dip. Full-fat Greek yogurt will yield a thicker, richer texture.
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Cheese Please!: For an added layer of salty, tangy flavor, consider crumbling in some feta cheese. Its briny notes pair wonderfully with avocado and chicken. Alternatively, goat cheese offers a creamy, slightly tart, and distinctively earthy flavor that can elevate the dip.
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Vegetarian Version: To transform this into a delicious vegetarian dip, replace the chicken entirely with canned black beans. Mash them slightly for texture or keep them whole. This creates a hearty, flavorful, and plant-based alternative that’s equally satisfying.
Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Avocado Chicken Salad Dip
Achieving perfection with your Avocado Chicken Salad Dip is easy with these handy tips and tricks:
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Selecting and Ripening Avocados: Finding perfectly ripe avocados can sometimes be a challenge. If you know you’re going to make this salad in a few days, pick up firm, unripe avocados in advance. You can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag with a banana or apple, which releases ethylene gas, a natural ripening agent. A ripe avocado should feel slightly soft when gently squeezed but not mushy.
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Chicken Prep Made Easy: Save time and effort by planning ahead! Whenever you cook chicken for any meal, consider making a little extra to store for recipes like this. I love preparing rotisserie chicken in my Crock-Pot, then shredding and freezing portions. This way, you always have pre-cooked chicken ready to go, making quick and healthy meals like this chicken salad a breeze to assemble.
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Cilantro Alternatives: If cilantro isn’t your favorite herb, or if you’re serving someone who has an aversion to it, don’t fret! You can easily substitute it with fresh parsley for a clean, green flavor, or use finely chopped chives for a milder, oniony note. Both options will provide that essential herbaceous freshness without overpowering the dip.
More Delicious Recipes to Love
If you appreciate a truly good salad that’s both flavorful and satisfying, you’re in for a treat! I have an abundance of Salad Recipes on my site, ranging from light and refreshing to hearty and meal-worthy. Be sure to check out these other tasty salad creations for more inspiration:
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Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad: A smoky, sweet, and creamy delight perfect for summer BBQs.
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Avocado Tuna Salad (pictured above): A fresh, healthy twist on a classic, packed with protein and good fats.
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Chicken Chop Salad: A hearty and flavorful salad with all the delicious elements of a BLT, plus chicken!
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Apple Chicken Salad: A refreshing combination of sweet apples, tender chicken, and crisp greens.
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Chinese Chicken Salad: A vibrant, crunchy salad with an irresistible Asian-inspired dressing.
- Deconstructed Guacamole Salad: All the flavors of your favorite dip, presented in a fresh, unique salad form.
While a classic egg salad certainly has its merits, if you’re searching for a fresh, healthy lunch option that’s incredibly easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit with the entire family, this avocado chicken salad dip is the perfect solution. Its remarkable versatility means it can be enjoyed in countless ways, from a vibrant appetizer to a satisfying main course. The combination of fresh ingredients and robust flavors ensures that this recipe will become a beloved staple in your kitchen, one you’ll find yourself making on repeat for its simplicity, health benefits, and undeniably delicious taste. Get ready to add a new favorite to your culinary repertoire!
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Print Recipe
Avocado Chicken Salad Dip
Equipment
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Herb Scissors
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12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
Ingredients
- 1 large avocado diced
- 1 chicken breast cooked and diced or shredded
- ½ cup onion chopped
- 2 Tablespoons cilantro chopped
- 1 Tablespoon sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 dashes of hot sauce
Instructions
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Add of the ingredients to a large bowl.
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Stir to combine.
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Serve with crackers, pita, tortilla chips, toast, or in lettuce wraps.