Irresistible Smoked Chicken & Avocado Salad: The Perfect Easy Starter
Seeking an appetizer that effortlessly combines elegance with incredible flavor? Look no further than this exquisite Smoked Chicken and Avocado Salad. It’s a show-stopping starter, perfect for any occasion, from intimate dinner parties to festive holiday gatherings like Christmas or Easter. Imagine the creamy richness of ripe avocado, the gentle zing of red onion, and the aromatic warmth of turmeric, curry, and ginger, all perfectly complemented by tender, smoky chicken. Beyond its delightful taste, this recipe is remarkably simple and quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts who want to impress without the stress. Get ready to tantalize taste buds and make your next event truly memorable!
The Magic of Smoked Chicken & Avocado Salad
This Smoked Chicken and Avocado Salad isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience of harmonious flavors and textures. We’ve enjoyed this delightful creation countless times, and it’s always a highlight on our holiday menus. The velvety smoothness of avocado pairs wonderfully with the subtle crunch and mild spice of finely diced red onion. Then, add the fragrant depth of turmeric and curry, a whisper of sweetness from ginger, and the undeniable savory goodness of smoked chicken. Each component plays its part, creating a symphony of taste that truly delights the palate. It’s a dish that feels gourmet yet requires minimal effort, proving that incredible food can also be accessible.
Essential Ingredients for Your Smoked Chicken & Avocado Salad
Crafting this flavorful starter begins with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, with detailed notes on how each component contributes to the overall deliciousness. You can find the precise quantities in the recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this article:
- Avocado: The heart of our salad, avocado provides a smooth, buttery texture and a subtly sweet, mild flavor. To ensure perfection, choose ripe avocados – they should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not feel mushy. A clear stem end indicates a good avocado, free from brown spots. Its healthy fats also make this dish incredibly satisfying and creamy.
- Red Onion: Adding a beautiful pop of color and a crisp, piquant bite, red onions are preferred for their milder, sweeter taste when raw, compared to their sharper white or yellow counterparts. Finely chopped, they offer a pleasant aromatic heat that balances the creaminess of the avocado.
- Yogurt: For the dressing, we use Greek yogurt. Its thick consistency and creamy mouthfeel are essential for a luscious sauce. Greek yogurt also lends a delightful tang that brightens the overall flavor profile. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, full-fat sour cream can be a suitable alternative.
- Ginger Syrup: This ingredient is a secret weapon, providing a hint of natural sweetness and an invigorating, warm touch of ginger. Ginger and curry are a classic flavor combination, with ginger enhancing the complex notes of the curry powder. For an extra homemade touch, you can find our homemade ginger syrup recipe here.
- Curry Powder: This aromatic spice blend is the backbone of the dressing’s exotic and savory character. Typically comprising spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, it’s often enriched with mustard seed, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon. Feel free to adjust to your preferred spice level – a mild curry powder works beautifully, but a spicy blend can add an exciting kick.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is indispensable. It cuts through the richness of the avocado and mayonnaise, adding a bright, zesty freshness that awakens the palate. Crucially, it also prevents the avocado from browning, preserving its vibrant green color for a more appealing presentation.
- Smoked Chicken: The star protein of this starter, smoked chicken offers a distinctive sweet, delicate smoky flavor and a tender structure. Using pre-cooked smoked chicken breast makes this recipe incredibly convenient while delivering a gourmet taste.
- Mayonnaise: Contributes to the rich, creamy texture of the dressing, binding all the flavors together and providing a smooth, luxurious foundation that makes every bite decadent.
- Turmeric: Beyond its vibrant golden color, turmeric brings an earthy, slightly bitter, and sharp note to the dressing. It’s widely utilized in Asian cuisine for both its flavor and its visual appeal, and it’s a vital part of our curry blend.
- Arugula: Also known as rocket salad, this green forms the fresh, peppery base of our salad towers. Its distinct peppery, slightly nutty flavor provides a fantastic counterpoint to the creamy, rich chicken and avocado layers, adding complexity and freshness.
Crafting Your Smoked Chicken and Avocado Delight: Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing this elegant starter is surprisingly straightforward, allowing you to create a beautiful and delicious dish with ease. A printable recipe card with a detailed step-by-step description is available at the bottom of this blog post.
- Prepare the Avocado & Onion Mixture: Begin by halving the avocados, removing their pits, and scooping out the creamy flesh. Dice the avocado flesh into small, uniform cubes. Immediately toss these avocado cubes with a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice; this crucial step prevents them from browning and helps maintain their vibrant green color. Next, finely chop the red onions – the smaller the dice, the more evenly the flavors will distribute and blend into the salad. Gently fold the chopped red onions into the lemon-dressed avocado and set this mixture aside. This ensures a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
- Create the Smoked Chicken Salad Base: In a separate, clean bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, creamy mayonnaise, fragrant ginger syrup, vibrant ground turmeric, and aromatic curry powder. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until you achieve a perfectly smooth and well-combined sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed, perhaps adding a touch more ginger syrup for sweetness, or salt and pepper to personal preference. Once the dressing is perfected, add the finely diced smoked chicken and gently stir to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated in the rich, flavorful sauce.
- Assemble the First Layer (Smoked Chicken): To create an elegant, restaurant-quality presentation, start by placing a small bed of fresh arugula leaves on each serving plate. Position a cooking ring (approximately 2.5 inches or 7 cm in diameter) directly on top of the arugula. Carefully spoon the smoked chicken salad mixture into the ring, filling it about halfway. Using the back of a spoon, gently press the chicken down to create a firm, even layer. It is important to note: if your chicken mixture appears too moist, allow any excess liquid to drain before placing it in the ring. This prevents the delicate ‘tower’ from collapsing and ensures a stable, beautiful presentation.
- Complete the Tower with Avocado & Onion: Next, spoon the prepared red onion and avocado mixture on top of the smoked chicken layer, filling the cooking ring to the brim. Again, gently press down with the back of a spoon to create a smooth, compact top layer. With utmost care, slowly lift and remove the cooking ring from the salad. For a consistently clean and professional look across all servings, remember to wipe the ring clean before using it for the next plate. Repeat this entire assembly process for each individual starter.
Serve this as a sophisticated starter at your dinner party or holiday meal. For a final flourish, garnish each tower with quartered cherry tomatoes for an added burst of color and fresh tang. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a delightful acidic counterpoint to the creamy salad.
Did you make this delicious recipe? Tag #byandreajanssen via Instagram! I love to see what your creation looks like and regularly share the most beautiful photos of you! Did you like this recipe? Then leave a rating on the recipe card! Your feedback helps other home cooks and me enormously.
Need more inspiration?
- You can find video recipes on my YouTube channel.
- And don’t forget to save the recipes on Pinterest, so you can easily find them again next time!
📖 Recipe
RECIPE CARD
Andréa
Pin Recipe
25 minutes
25 minutes
Entrée and Starter
Other
4
persons
651
kcal
Equipment
-
Cooking ring 2.5 inch (7 cm) diameter
Prevent your screen from going dark
Ingredients
-
2
avocado -
1
lemon juice -
1
red onion,
small, chopped finely -
â…”
cup
Greek yogurt -
â…”
cup
mayonnaise -
6
tablespoons
ginger syrup -
3
teaspoons
ground turmeric -
3
teaspoons
curry powder -
¾
pound
smoked chicken,
sliced in small cubes -
2
oz
arugula
All my recipes are written both in Metric (gram / ml) and US Customary (cups / pounds). Here you can select which type of amount you would like to see.
US Customary
Instructions
Avocado Red Onion Topping
-
Cut avocados in half and remove the pit. Using a spoon, scoop the flesh out of the skin. Cut the avocado flesh into small, uniform cubes.2 avocado -
Immediately combine the diced avocado with a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to prevent it from discoloring.1 lemon juice -
Mix the finely chopped red onion with the lemon-dressed avocado and set aside.1 red onion
Smoked Chicken Salad
-
In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, ginger syrup, ground turmeric, and curry powder until you have a smooth, well-combined sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings; add more ginger syrup for sweetness or salt and pepper to your preference.â…” cup Greek yogurt,
â…” cup mayonnaise,
6 tablespoons ginger syrup,
3 teaspoons ground turmeric,
3 teaspoons curry powder -
Add the small cubes of smoked chicken to the prepared sauce and mix gently until all the chicken is thoroughly coated.¾ pound smoked chicken
Serving
-
Arrange a small bed of fresh arugula leaves on each serving plate.2 oz arugula -
Place a cooking ring with a diameter of 2½ inches (7 cm) directly on top of the arugula on each plate. -
Fill approximately half of the cooking ring with the smoked chicken salad mixture. If the mixture is excessively moist, gently drain any excess liquid to ensure the tower holds its shape. -
Fill the remaining portion of the ring with the red onion and avocado mixture, gently pressing down to create a smooth top layer. -
Carefully lift the cooking ring straight up and off the assembled salad tower. For a consistently clean and professional appearance, ensure you clean the ring before preparing each subsequent plate to keep the layers visible and distinct. Repeat these steps for all servings.
Notes
2. Slicing for Flavor: Cut all ingredients, especially the red onion, into very small pieces. This ensures an even distribution of flavors and a delightful texture in every bite.
3. Stable Smoked Chicken Layer: Before adding the smoked chicken mixture to the cooking ring, ensure any excess sauce is drained. If the chicken mixture is too wet, the assembled tower may collapse.
4. Ginger Syrup Enhancement: Ginger syrup provides a crucial hint of sweetness and a delicate ginger flavor that beautifully complements the curry. For a special touch, consider using a homemade ginger syrup.
5. Avocado Ripeness: A ripe avocado should be slightly soft when gently squeezed, but not mushy. Check the stem end – a clear color usually indicates a good, unblemished avocado.
6. Storage & Make-Ahead Tips:
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared in advance. The smoked chicken with its sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The avocado and red onion mixture can be prepared a few hours before serving, also stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Assemble the individual towers just before serving for the freshest presentation.
- Freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the avocado and mayonnaise.
7. Nutritional Value: The nutritional value provided is per person. Please note that this might be slightly higher than actual consumption, as there is often some leftover smoked chicken sauce.
Nutrition
Calories:
651
kcal
Carbohydrates:
15
g
Protein:
23
g
Fat:
57
g
Saturated Fat:
10
g
Polyunsaturated Fat:
22
g
Monounsaturated Fat:
22
g
Trans Fat:
0.2
g
Cholesterol:
81
mg
Sodium:
327
mg
Fiber:
8
g
Sugar:
4
g
Vitamin A:
644
IU
Vitamin C:
19
mg
Iron:
3
mg
appetizer, easy starter, holiday starter, party food, smoked chicken recipe, avocado salad, Christmas dinner, Easter dinner
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!
Expert Tips for a Flawless Smoked Chicken & Avocado Salad
- Optimal Avocado Selection: For the best texture and flavor, choose avocados that are ripe but firm. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure. Avoid overly soft or stringy avocados. The lemon juice is crucial for preventing browning and preserving that beautiful green color.
- Achieving the Perfect Tower: The key to a stable and elegant salad tower lies in two details: ensuring the smoked chicken mixture is not excessively wet (drain any excess liquid if necessary) and gently pressing each layer within the cooking ring. Cleaning the ring between each assembly also helps maintain distinct, clean layers.
- Flavor Customization: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spice levels of the curry powder to your liking. For an extra layer of freshness, finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley can be added to either the chicken or avocado mixture. A tiny pinch of cayenne pepper in the dressing can also provide a subtle, warming heat.
- Make-Ahead Strategy: This recipe is perfect for entertaining as it allows for partial preparation in advance. The smoked chicken mixture (with its dressing) can be prepared up to a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The avocado and red onion mixture should be made a few hours before serving, also stored tightly in the fridge with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to minimize air exposure. Assemble the individual towers just before serving to ensure ultimate freshness and presentation.
- Serving Suggestions Beyond Starters: While this recipe shines as an appetizer, it can easily be scaled up to a light lunch or main course. Serve it on a bed of mixed greens, in crisp lettuce cups, or alongside some toasted artisanal bread for a more substantial meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the smoked chicken with smoked tofu (diced and crumbled), seasoned chickpeas, or even grilled halloumi cheese for a savory alternative. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- What if I don’t have a cooking ring for plating? No problem at all! You can still achieve an elegant presentation. Use a sturdy, round cookie cutter or even a clean, empty tuna can (with both ends removed) as a makeshift ring. Alternatively, you can simply scoop the chicken mixture onto the arugula, top with the avocado mixture, and serve as a beautiful deconstructed salad.
- Can I use fresh chicken instead of smoked chicken? While the smoked chicken provides a unique depth of flavor that is central to this recipe, you can use cooked fresh chicken. Simply poach or grill chicken breasts, shred or dice them, and then mix with a little smoked paprika to mimic some of that smoky flavor. However, the overall profile will be milder.
- How long does this salad last? The assembled salad is best enjoyed immediately for optimal freshness and texture. The individual components (chicken mixture and avocado mixture) can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Due to the fresh avocado and mayonnaise, this salad is not suitable for freezing.
Why This Smoked Chicken & Avocado Salad Is a Must-Try
In summary, this Smoked Chicken and Avocado Salad is a culinary gem that offers the perfect blend of ease, elegance, and unforgettable flavor. Its creamy textures, vibrant colors, and harmonious blend of smoky, sweet, and savory notes make it an ideal choice for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday dinner or simply looking for an impressive yet quick starter, this recipe promises to deliver. It’s a versatile dish that will not only delight your guests but also become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t wait—try this exceptional starter and elevate your dining experience today!
More Starter / Entrée Recipes
If you’re looking for more delicious starters or entrées to impress your guests, these recipes may also be of great interest:
- Marinated Strawberries with Balsamic Vinegar and Basil
- Salmon Cod Terrine
- Onion Tart with Thyme
- Salmon and Goat Cheese Towers