Do you know what the best part of being a lifestyle blogger is? I can pretty much spend my time writing about anything under the sun.
My husband recently informed me that he does not like the concept of a “lifestyle blog.” He told me that he cannot stand it when he’s reading a paleo blog, browsing through it’s awesome recipes, and then, out of left field, they toss in some nonsense in about their kids or a craft project or their dog’s favorite color. Personally, I love it. I feel like it helps me connect with the writer. But apparently this is precisely the thing that drives my husband crazy. I assume he only reads my ADD blog because it was part of our wedding vows: in sickness and in health, in good times and bad, when blogging about paleo or fashion, as long as we both shall live.
As I struggle to figure out my current eating issues (newly discovered celiacs and lactose intolerance) I found myself at many a social shindig this past weekend. At one point, I looked down at my sparse plate realizing that out of all food available - the only two things I could eat was a naked burger (with a tomato and guac) with a side of quinoa chips and salsa (that we brought.) At this point, I am forced to be so much more cautious about what my mind is craving and what my body can handle.
With that intro - and the fact that I’m still wearing my knock-arounds (so a fashion post is out of the question) I decided today would be a wonderful day to bring you one of my go-to lunches. As a southern girl, and one who used to own her own cafe (yep, another day, another story) Chicken Salad is a summer staple. But let’s be real, chicken salad (usually made heavy-on-the-mayo) is not really the healthiest of options most of the time.
Let me introduce you to my easy-peasy paleo, whole30 approved, mayo-free chicken salad!
I use canned chicken. Because I’m lazy. And this stuff from Sam’s Club is quite good. One can will make a couple servings. ($10 for the five cans - it’s a pretty good deal considering their size, and cheaper than anything I have been able to found at a grocery store.)
(Add more if you’d like your consistency to be even more creamy.) To keep costs down, I recommend this four pack of Wholly Guacamole, again from Sam’s Club. I think it works out to be $2/pack - which is a lot cheaper than most grocery stores. (Yes, you could make your own guacamole - but like I said, I’m lazy.)
Personally, I love extra flavor. I love spicy guacamole. The husband on the other hand - not so much. And lucky for him, the only Wholly Guacamole that they sell at Sam’s is pretty plain jane in my opinion.
My mom adds celery and apples to this chicken salad when she makes it. Do whatever you want. Be creative and embrace the fact that you can have chicken salad without mayonnaise!
What do you use to as a mayo substitute? Guacamole has really (out of no where) become a staple in my life. I used to hate it but now I practically eat it daily. I love discovering clean foods, that make me feel good, that I used to hate, but now I love! Next on my list is to try guacamole deviled eggs… I will have to let ya know how that turns out! 🙂
This sounds really good! I’ll have to try it. I don’t know how it will compare to your regular chicken salad recipe that is always a hit at our house, but you are an awesome cook, so I know it has to be delish! Insert drooly face here. Yum.
Susan @ 2catsandchloe says
YES! It’s really good. I promise. Not sure if it is quite as good as the Carriage House Chicken Salad that you and your family love so much - but I’ve tried to move away from Mayo a bit… this is a wonderful alternative.
That’s my absolute favorite way to make chicken salad. It’s so good with a squirt of sriracha.
And I had never cared for avocado/guac till last year, and now I’m obsessed. I eat avocados every. single. day.
Susan @ 2catsandchloe says
Girl! Me too! I used to HATE avo and guac! Now, just like you, it’s a staple in my life!
Linda Manns says
I really like guacamole. This sounds like a great meal. Thank you so much for sharing
I have not tried this before, but it is perfect timing. As I am trying to find some healthy options for lunch. I have had Italian dressing and chicken salad before and that is yummy. I will have to try this. Frankly, ya can’t go too wrong with Guac 🙂
I love chicken salad but never without the mayo. I will try it. Thanks for sharing