Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad

Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad is a fresh, creamy, and flavorful twist on the classic chicken salad. The combination of tender chicken, ripe avocado, and a tangy ranch dressing creates a satisfying dish that’s light yet filling. The avocado adds a rich creaminess, while the ranch dressing brings a zesty kick, making this salad a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

I first made this dish when I was looking for a quick, healthy lunch that felt indulgent but still light. The creamy avocado and tangy ranch dressing made every bite satisfying, while the tender chicken brought a hearty protein element. The salad was easy to throw together, and it quickly became a favorite for meal prep or a fast, delicious lunch.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it by adding veggies like cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch, or throw in some crispy beef bacon for added flavor. It’s also great served in a wrap, on a bed of greens, or simply with crackers. Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad is a perfect meal that feels indulgent but is packed with wholesome ingredients.

Perfect for:

• Light lunches
• Healthy dinners
• Picnics and BBQs
• Meal prep
• Avocado lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad will become your go-to salad:

• Creamy and Crunchy: The creamy avocado complements the crisp vegetables and tender chicken for a perfect textural contrast.
• Zesty Flavor: The ranch dressing adds a tangy, savory flavor that ties the whole dish together.
• Packed with Protein: Grilled chicken breast provides a healthy source of protein, keeping you satisfied for longer.
• Fresh Ingredients: A mix of fresh greens and ripe avocado ensures every bite is packed with nutrients.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or protein for a dish that suits your taste.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Customizable Dressing: You can easily adjust the ranch dressing for a lighter or spicier version.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the croutons for a delicious low-carb meal.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy avocado and mild flavors.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 24g

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 medium chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
• 1 large avocado, diced
• 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, romaine)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup cucumber, sliced
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Ranch Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or milk)
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats to the salad.
• Grilled Chicken: A lean source of protein to keep you full.
• Mixed Greens: A variety of greens ensures a fresh and nutritious base.
• Ranch Dressing: Combines creamy mayonnaise with tangy buttermilk for that classic ranch flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Grill the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Prepare the Salad:

2. Assemble the Greens: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. Add the Avocado: Gently fold in the diced avocado and sliced grilled chicken.

Make the Ranch Dressing:

4. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss the Salad: Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Serve:

6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the salad and serve immediately.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad:

• As a Light Lunch: Serve on its own for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
• With Crusty Bread: Pair with a side of fresh bread or rolls for extra comfort.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled meats or other main dishes at a BBQ.
• For Meal Prep: Divide into containers for a quick and easy workweek lunch.
• On a Bed of Rice: Serve over a bed of brown or white rice for a heartier meal.
• As a Wrap: Wrap the salad in a tortilla for a portable and delicious lunch.
• With Extra Veggies: Add extra veggies like bell peppers or radishes for added crunch.
• As a Snack: Perfect as a light snack for a healthy pick-me-up.
• With Hot Sauce: Add a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• For Special Occasions: Serve as a refreshing side dish at a dinner party or gathering.

Additional Tips

• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the ranch dressing for some heat.
• Ripen Avocado: If your avocado isn’t ripe, place it in a paper bag with a banana for a day to speed up the ripening process.
• Grilled or Baked Chicken: If you don’t have a grill, baked chicken works just as well.
• Store Dressing Separately: If meal prepping, store the dressing separately and toss the salad when ready to serve.
• Customize the Greens: Swap the mixed greens for kale, arugula, or spinach for different flavor profiles.
• Toss Gently: Be careful when tossing the salad to avoid mashing the avocado.

Recipe Variations

• Buffalo Chicken Avocado Salad: Use buffalo sauce on the grilled chicken for a spicy twist.
• Lighter Dressing: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier dressing option.
• Add Beef Bacon: Top the salad with crispy beef bacon bits for extra crunch and flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add chickpeas or grilled tofu for a protein-packed alternative.
• Crispy Chicken: Bread and fry the chicken strips for a crunchy texture.
• Greek Style Salad: Swap the ranch dressing for a Greek vinaigrette and add Kalamata olives and feta cheese.
• Citrus Dressing: Replace ranch dressing with a citrusy vinaigrette made with lemon or lime.
• Taco Salad: Add crushed tortilla chips and swap the ranch for a creamy salsa dressing for a Tex-Mex version.
• BBQ Chicken Salad: Use BBQ sauce on the chicken and add corn and black beans for a southwestern twist.

Special Equipment

• Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: For grilling the chicken.
• Whisk: For mixing the ranch dressing ingredients.
• Salad Bowl: For tossing all the ingredients together.
• Sharp Knife: To slice the chicken and vegetables.
• Storage Containers: For meal prepping and storing the dressing separately.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought ranch dressing?
   Yes, store-bought ranch dressing works fine, but homemade gives it a fresher, creamier flavor.
2. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
   The salad can last up to 2 days in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
3. Can I freeze this salad?
   It’s not recommended to freeze the salad due to the avocado and dressing.
4. How can I make this salad spicier?
   Add hot sauce or chili powder to the ranch dressing or toss in some diced jalapeños.
5. What can I substitute for grilled chicken?
   You can substitute with grilled shrimp, steak, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
6. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
   Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or corn to the salad for more flavor.
7. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   You can prep the chicken, vegetables, and dressing ahead of time, but assemble the salad just before serving to prevent wilting.
8. What’s the best way to store leftover avocado?
   Store leftover avocado in an airtight container with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to prevent browning.
9. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative and replace the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt.
10. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
    You can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a dairy-free alternative as a base for the dressing.

Conclusion

Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy avocado, and a zesty ranch dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a hearty salad, this dish combines fresh ingredients with a rich, tangy dressing for a deliciously refreshing meal.

The magic of this recipe is in the creamy avocado, which pairs perfectly with the tangy ranch dressing and juicy chicken. Crunchy veggies like celery and red onion add texture and freshness, while a sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens the flavor. It’s a versatile dish that can be served on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or as a topping for toast.

I’d love to see your Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to see your creamy, fresh salads. Don’t forget to leave a comment and tell me how you made this dish your own with extra toppings or your favorite dressing variations!