If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor, the Avocado Chicken Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad combines tender chicken with creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, making every bite a delicious adventure. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even a colorful picnic treat, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here—just fresh, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own charm to this salad. From the creamy texture of ripe avocados to the zesty pop of lime juice, every element is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture.
- Cooked chicken breast, 2 cups: Provides lean protein and a hearty base for the salad.
- Ripe avocados, 2: Cubed for chunks and mashed partially to add creamy richness.
- Cherry tomatoes, 1 cup: Halved to deliver a juicy, sweet burst in every bite.
- Red onion, 1/3 cup: Diced for a mild, sharp crunch that balances the creaminess.
- Fresh cilantro, 1/4 cup: Chopped to infuse the salad with bright herbaceous notes.
- Fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons: Adds a zesty tang that lifts and ties all flavors together.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Enhances the overall taste—adjust based on preference.
- Black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon: Offers a subtle heat and depth.
- Jalapeño, 1: Diced for a touch of spicy kick (optional but recommended).
- Cucumber, 1/2 cup: Diced to introduce a refreshing, crisp texture.
- Crumbled feta, 1/4 cup: Brings a salty, tangy finish that elevates the salad beautifully.
How to Make Avocado Chicken Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken on hand, cook and shred the chicken breast first. Make sure to let it cool completely before mixing to maintain the salad’s fresh texture.
Step 2: Prep the Avocados
Cube both avocados, but here’s the secret—mash half of them in a large mixing bowl to create an irresistibly creamy base that binds all the ingredients together.
Step 3: Combine Fresh Ingredients
Add the shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and freshly chopped cilantro right into the bowl with the mashed avocado. This mix already looks so inviting and colorful!
Step 4: Brighten with Lime and Season
Squeeze in fresh lime juice and sprinkle in salt and pepper. If you’re a fan of spice, toss in the diced jalapeño here. Every bit of seasoning enhances the salad’s vibrant character.
Step 5: Gently Mix Everything
Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly combined, taking care not to over-mix—you want to preserve the different textures, from creamy to crunchy to juicy.
Step 6: Chill or Serve
Enjoy it straight away for the freshest taste, or chill for 20 to 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle beautifully. Either way, you’re in for a treat.
How to Serve Avocado Chicken Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
Top your salad with a little extra crumbled feta and a few sprigs of cilantro for a fresh, eye-catching finish. A light drizzle of olive oil or an extra squeeze of lime can add that final touch of brightness.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with crunchy whole-grain crackers or warm pita bread. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside quinoa or a light vegetable soup to complement its freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad inside hollowed-out avocado halves for a stunning presentation. Alternatively, pile it onto crisp lettuce leaves for chicken salad wraps that are both fun and healthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Avocado Chicken Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within one to two days since avocado can brown over time.
Freezing
This salad isn’t ideal for freezing due to the fresh avocado and tomatoes, which can change texture upon thawing. For best quality, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. If you like, let it sit out for a few minutes after refrigeration for the flavors to pop.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds delicious flavor. Just shred it and you’re ready to go.
Can I substitute the feta cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or queso fresco make great alternatives and offer a similar tangy kick. You can also leave out cheese for a dairy-free option.
How ripe should the avocados be?
Choose avocados that are slightly soft to the touch; they’ll be creamy when mashed but still hold their shape when cubed.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
It’s great for next-day lunches if you don’t mind the avocado browning a bit. Add a squeeze of extra lime juice and stir before eating to refresh the flavors.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, radishes, or even corn kernels add extra crunch and color to this salad if you want to customize it.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a recipe that’s fresh, flavorful, and easy to whip up anytime, the Avocado Chicken Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta Recipe is your new best friend. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and a touch spicy, making every bite exciting. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over again!
Print
Avocado Chicken Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Avocado Chicken Salad is a fresh and creamy dish perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Combining tender shredded chicken with ripe avocados, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing, it’s packed with flavor and texture. The addition of jalapeño adds a spicy kick, while feta cheese offers a salty finish. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a healthy and satisfying option that can be served immediately or chilled for extra flavor melding.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced for crunch
- 1 jalapeño, diced for heat
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Avocado Base
- 2 ripe avocados, cubed (half mashed to create creamy base)
Dressing and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese for a salty finish
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cook and shred the chicken if using raw chicken breast. Allow it to cool to room temperature before combining with other ingredients.
- Prepare Avocado Base: Cube the avocados and mash half of them in a large bowl to create a creamy and smooth base for the salad.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, diced cucumber, jalapeño, and chopped fresh cilantro to the mashed avocado.
- Dress and Season: Squeeze in the freshly squeezed lime juice, and add salt and black pepper to taste. Mix in the crumbled feta cheese.
- Mix Gently: Gently combine all ingredients until evenly mixed, taking care not to over-mix to retain the textures of the ingredients.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately as a fresh dish, or cover and chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken breast from a rotisserie or leftover chicken to save time.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the jalapeño.
- This salad is best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Feel free to substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free version.
- Serve with tortilla chips, on a bed of greens, or as a sandwich filling.
