Chicken Salad with Avocado Dressing
This vibrant, nutrient-dense chicken salad features perfectly pan-seared spiced chicken breast served over a fresh bed of crisp vegetables. The heart of the dish is a creamy, zesty lime-cilantro avocado dressing that provides a velvet-textured finish. It is the perfect balance of lean protein, healthy fats, and refreshing crunch, making it an ideal choice for a sophisticated yet quick lunch or dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 5-7 oz chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 large ripe avocado
- 1 tbsp plain Greek yoghurt
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3-5 tbsp milk (cow, almond, or soy)
- 5 cups chopped lettuce (Romaine or iceberg)
- 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ear of corn, kernels removed
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 small red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to create the spice rub.
- Season the chicken breast evenly with the spice mixture.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil and sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until cooked through and golden brown. Let rest, then slice.
- In a food processor, combine the avocado, garlic, red onion, cilantro, olive oil, yoghurt, lime juice, and spices.
- Process until smooth and velvety, adding milk one tablespoon at a time until the desired dressing consistency is achieved.
- In a large bowl, toss the lettuce, tomatoes, and corn together.
- Top the salad with the sliced chicken and drizzle generously with the avocado dressing before serving.
Notes
Ensure the avocado is fully ripe to achieve a smooth dressing texture. You can grill the corn briefly for a smoky flavor before adding it to the salad. Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 385kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 38gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 320mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4g
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