Save A fresh and flavorful appetizer featuring creamy avocado ranch chicken salad served in crisp lettuce cups—perfect for parties or a light lunch.
I first made these chicken salad cups for a family get-together, and everyone loved how easy and refreshing they were. The avocado ranch dressing adds a unique twist that keeps guests coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Salad Base: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced; 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered; 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- Ranch Dressing: 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Serving: 8 small butter lettuce leaves (or romaine leaves)
Instructions
- Make the ranch dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine the salad:
- Gently fold in chicken, avocado, red onion, celery, cherry tomatoes, and chives until everything is well coated in dressing.
- Taste and adjust:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Fill lettuce cups:
- Spoon the chicken salad evenly into lettuce cups.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra chives or a sprinkle of dill if desired.
Save My kids love helping assemble these cups, and it's become a lunch we all look forward to making together. They enjoy picking out extra toppings like diced cucumber or radish for crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These salad cups pair perfectly with iced tea or crisp Sauvignon Blanc. They are great for picnics, lunchboxes, or as party appetizers.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble in lettuce cups just before serving for best texture.
Variation Ideas
Try substituting rotisserie chicken for convenience. For extra kick, add chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Save Enjoy these refreshing chicken salad cups for your next gathering or as a light weekday meal. They're sure to impress with both flavor and simplicity.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well for quick preparation and brings added flavor to the salad.
- → How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Lemon juice in the dressing helps prevent browning, but assemble cups just before serving for the freshest look.
- → What lettuce is best for serving?
Butter lettuce offers tender leaves and a mild taste, while romaine provides extra crunch if preferred.
- → Are these cups gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients are gluten-free. Double-check mayonnaise and yogurt labels if using store-bought options.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling in advance, but fill lettuce cups just before serving for crispness.
- → What pairs well with these cups?
Pair with crisp Sauvignon Blanc or refreshing iced tea for a balanced meal or party platter.