Avocado and chicken salad

Avocado and chicken salad is a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful dish that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Here’s a basic recipe along with some variations to keep it interesting:

Avocado and Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (grilled, baked, or poached)
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • If you’re using leftover chicken, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If cooking fresh, season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices, and cook until fully done. Allow to cool before using.

2. Prepare the Avocado:

   • Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Dice it into bite-sized pieces.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine the chicken, avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and fresh cilantro or parsley.

4. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon or lime juice, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and paprika (if using).

5. Dress the Salad:

   • Pour the dressing over the chicken and avocado mixture and toss gently to coat.

6. Serve:

   • Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Variations:

1. Avocado and Chicken Caesar Salad:

   • Add chopped romaine lettuce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Use Caesar dressing instead of the olive oil and lemon juice.

2. Avocado and Chicken Cobb Salad:

   • Include hard-boiled eggs, crispy bacon, and crumbled blue cheese. Use a classic vinaigrette or ranch dressing.

3. Avocado and Chicken Southwest Salad:

   • Add black beans, corn, and diced red bell peppers. Use a lime-cilantro dressing or a spicy ranch.

4. Avocado and Chicken Mediterranean Salad:

   • Include Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.

5. Avocado and Chicken Asian Salad:

   • Add shredded cabbage, sliced snap peas, and green onions. Dress with a sesame-ginger vinaigrette.

These variations can help keep your salads exciting and tailored to your taste preferences. Enjoy!