Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe ( Weight Watchers Friendly)
Healthy, Delicious, and Low in Points!
Introduction
Avocado Chicken Salad is a perfect combination of lean protein and healthy fats, making it not only satisfying but also a nutritious meal. This recipe is designed to be Weight Watchers-friendly, meaning it’s low in points but full of flavor. With its creamy avocado dressing and hearty chicken, it’s a dish that you can enjoy guilt-free while sticking to your wellness goals.
This recipe provides a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, and the avocado adds a creamy texture that makes this salad even more delectable. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick lunch, this avocado chicken salad checks all the boxes for a healthy, satisfying meal.
In this detailed recipe, we will walk you through each step of preparation, list the ingredients, and provide complete nutritional information. This dish is not just for Weight Watchers but for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious and balanced meal.
Key Points
Weight Watchers Points: 4-5 points per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients used)
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 servings
Great for meal prepping or as a light lunch or dinner option
Can be made ahead and stored for up to 3 days
Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 cups cooked, skinless chicken breast (about 10 oz, chopped or shredded)
1 ripe avocado, peeled and diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dressing:
1/4 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons light mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon water (to thin if necessary)
Preparation Instructions
Cook the Chicken
Begin by cooking the chicken breast. You can either grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken until fully cooked. For this recipe, we recommend grilling the chicken for a smoky flavor. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before chopping or shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and chop the cilantro. Set all these vegetables aside in a large mixing bowl.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the non-fat Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth. If you prefer a thinner consistency for the dressing, add a tablespoon of water to reach the desired texture. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed.
Assemble the Salad
Add the cooked and chopped chicken to the bowl with the vegetables. Then, gently toss in the diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime juice. Drizzle the dressing over the top of the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
Season and Serve
Taste the salad and season with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to enjoy. This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but the avocado may begin to brown, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
Calories: 300 kcal
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 7g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 350mg
Sugar: 4g
Weight Watchers Points Breakdown
Green Plan: 5 points
Blue Plan: 4 points
Purple Plan: 4 points
Variations and Substitutions
This avocado chicken salad is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it according to your preferences. Here are a few ideas:
Swap the Chicken for Turkey: If you prefer turkey, lean ground turkey or turkey breast would work just as well in this salad.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale to bulk up the salad without adding many extra calories.
Use a Different Protein: For those who prefer seafood, cooked shrimp or grilled salmon could be a great alternative to chicken.
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Make it a Wrap: For a more filling option, wrap the avocado chicken salad in a whole wheat tortilla for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Health Benefits of Avocado Chicken Salad
This avocado chicken salad is packed with nutritional benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the key health benefits you’ll get from the ingredients:
Avocado: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, avocado supports heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels. It’s also high in potassium, which helps balance blood pressure. Avocados are also packed with fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
Chicken Breast: Skinless chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall bodily maintenance. It also helps keep you satisfied for longer periods, making it a great choice for those managing their weight.
Cucumbers and Tomatoes: Both cucumbers and tomatoes are low in calories and high in vitamins and antioxidants. Cucumbers are hydrating and support healthy skin, while tomatoes provide a dose of vitamin C and lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is a rich source of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. It also adds creaminess to the dressing without the need for heavy cream or mayonnaise.
Tips for Meal Prep
This salad is perfect for meal prepping, especially if you’re looking to make several lunches ahead of time. Here are some tips for storing and keeping this salad fresh throughout the week:
Store Components Separately: If you’re meal prepping, it’s best to store the chicken, vegetables, avocado, and dressing separately. This will keep the salad fresh longer, and you can mix everything together when you’re ready to eat.
Use Airtight Containers: For the best results, use airtight containers to store each component of the salad. This will help maintain freshness and prevent browning of the avocado.
Dress Just Before Eating: If you want to keep the salad as fresh as possible, only add the dressing when you’re ready to eat. The avocado may begin to brown over time, so adding the dressing last helps preserve the texture and color.
Conclusion
Avocado Chicken Salad is a light yet filling meal that is ideal for anyone following Weight Watchers or looking to maintain a healthy diet. The combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables makes it a balanced option that is both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re planning meals for the week, enjoying a quick lunch, or serving it at a gathering, this salad is sure to be a hit. With only 4-5 Weight Watchers points per serving, you can enjoy this delicious dish without feeling guilty. Try this recipe today and feel good about the nourishing ingredients you’re putting into your body!