This Greek Avocado Chicken Salad combines soft shredded chicken with creamy avocado, tart sun-dried tomatoes, and the briny richness of kalamata olives, making it a delightful and healthful dish. With toasted pine nuts and crumbled feta on top, every mouthful is a symphony of Mediterranean tastes. This salad is more than just a meal; it’s a trip to the core of Greek cooking, drizzled with a creamy and zesty dressing.
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**Ingredients:**
**Salad:**
– 2-4 cups shredded chicken
– 1 avocado, sliced
– ½ red onion, sliced
– ½ cup halved kalamata olives
– 1 (12-ounce) jar julienned sun-dried tomatoes (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
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**Directions:**
**1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, avocado slices, red onion, kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and pine nuts.
– *Optional:* Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, then let them cool before adding to the salad.
**2. Prepare the Dressing:**
– In a separate bowl or jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil, Greek yogurt, mayo, salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried dill, sugar, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice.
– Whisk or shake well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
**3. Assemble the Salad:**
– Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl.
– Gently toss everything together until the dressing coats every component evenly.
– Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
**4. Serve:**
– This salad can be served immediately or refrigerated for a short time to allow the flavors to meld.
– It’s perfect as a side dish for a summer party or a delicious meal on its own.
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**Tips:**
– **Make Ahead:** Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine just before serving to keep the avocado fresh.
– **Add Greens:** Serve over a bed of mixed greens or spinach for extra freshness.
– **Protein Boost:** Add chickpeas or grilled shrimp for an extra protein boost.
– **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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Enjoy this vibrant and wholesome Greek Avocado Chicken Salad—a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
Enjoy!