Save It Enjoy a fresh, protein-packed lunch with these Avocado Herb Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups. This dish features creamy avocado, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs, all served in crisp butter lettuce cups for a light and satisfying meal that is perfect for a quick and healthy midday break.
Save It This recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients to create a dish that is as nutritious as it is flavorful. The creamy texture of the avocado pairs beautifully with the tender shredded chicken, while the crunch of celery and red onion adds a satisfying bite to every lettuce cup.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (about 2 medium breasts)
- Vegetables & Herbs: 1 large ripe avocado, diced; 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Dressing: 3 tbsp Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for dairy-free option); 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Assembly: 8 large butter lettuce leaves (or romaine hearts); Optional: cherry tomatoes, halved, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced avocado, celery, red onion, parsley, and dill.
- Step 2
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Step 3
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Step 4
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 5
- Spoon the chicken salad evenly into the lettuce leaves to form cups.
- Step 6
- Garnish with cherry tomato halves if desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra crunch, add chopped cucumber or sliced almonds to the chicken mixture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute Greek yogurt with vegan mayo for a dairy-free version of this recipe.
Serviervorschläge
Pairs well with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing meal.
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Whether you are prepping a weekday lunch or a light dinner, these Avocado Herb Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups are a delicious way to enjoy a meal that is both light and satisfying. The vibrant herbs and creamy dressing make this a standout dish for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make the chicken filling ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the chicken salad mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Wait to fill the lettuce cups until just before serving, as the leaves can become soggy if filled too early.
- → What type of lettuce works best for cups?
Butter lettuce and romaine hearts are excellent choices because their leaves form natural cups and hold their shape well. Butter lettuce offers a tender, mild flavor, while romaine provides a satisfying crunch that holds up beautifully against the creamy filling.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Simply replace the Greek yogurt with an equal amount of dairy-free mayonnaise or avocado-based mayo. The dressing will still be creamy and tangy, just without any dairy products. This substitution also makes the entire dish vegan-friendly if needed.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Simply shred or dice the meat from a store-bought rotisserie chicken, discarding the skin if you prefer a lighter version. One rotisserie chicken typically provides enough meat for this recipe with some leftover.
- → What other vegetables can I add?
Finely chopped cucumber adds refreshing crunch, while diced bell peppers introduce sweetness and color. Thinly sliced radishes provide a peppery bite, and grated carrots offer natural sweetness. Just keep pieces small to maintain the cup's structural integrity.
- → How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
The acidic dressing helps slow oxidation, but for best results, toss the diced avocado with a tablespoon of lemon juice before combining it with other ingredients. If making ahead, consider adding the avocado just before serving to maintain its vibrant green color.