Embark on a culinary journey to the sun-soaked shores of Greece with our delectable Greek Avocado Chicken Salad recipe. This refreshing dish combines tender shredded chicken, creamy avocado, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and the briny goodness of kalamata olives, all brought together with crumbled feta and toasted pine nuts. Topped with a creamy and tangy dressing, each bite is a symphony of Mediterranean flavors. Join us as we dive into the preparation of this wholesome and satisfying salad that celebrates the essence of Greek cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 2-4 cups shredded chicken
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ red onion, sliced
- ½ cup halved kalamata olives
- One 12-ounce jar of julienned sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and rinsed
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup pine nuts (toasting optional for enhanced flavor)
Dressing:
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (0% fat recommended for a lighter option)
- ¼ cup reduced-fat mayo (or substitute with extra Greek yogurt for a healthier twist)
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill, or ¼ cup chopped fresh dill for a burst of freshness
- ½ teaspoon sugar to balance the tartness
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions:
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, sliced avocado, red onion, kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and pine nuts. If toasting the pine nuts, do so in a dry pan over medium heat until golden, then let cool before adding to the salad.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl or jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine olive oil, Greek yogurt, mayo, salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried dill, sugar, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice. Whisk together or shake well to blend into a smooth dressing.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Toss everything together carefully until evenly coated with the dressing. This ensures a harmonious blend of flavors throughout the salad. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: This salad can be served immediately or chilled for a while to let the flavors meld. It makes a delightful standalone meal or a perfect side dish for a summer gathering.
Conclusion: This Greek Avocado Chicken Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of the vibrant and healthy essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With its delightful mix of textures and flavors, this salad offers a satisfying and nutritious dining experience. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or as a side dish, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So gather your ingredients and indulge in the flavors of Greece with this easy-to-make salad. Bon appétit!