On a sunlit afternoon, I found myself dreaming up a dish that offered not just flavor but a feast for the eyes. That’s when I stumbled upon the concept of Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado. Imagine the creamy richness of ripe avocados hugging a delightful blend of juicy rotisserie chicken, crunchy veggies, and zesty lime. It’s a recipe that not only brings a smile but also allows you to escape the monotonous fast-food routine that often plagues busy weeks.
With only 20 minutes of prep time, this vibrant dish is perfect for gatherings or a chic lunch at home. Each avocado half is a little boat of happiness, filled with a chicken salad that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s an impressive yet uncomplicated recipe that caters to anyone looking for a fresh twist on a classic. So grab a rotisserie chicken and avocados, and let’s dive into this culinary adventure that your taste buds will thank you for!
Why is Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of creamy avocados and savory chicken salad creates a delightful explosion of taste.
Quick and easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal that impresses without overwhelming.
Nutritious goodness: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish not only satisfies but nourishes your body.
Great for gatherings: Serve it at parties or casual get-togethers, and watch it fly off the plates – everyone loves a tasty, hand-held meal!
Customizable delight: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients like nuts or extra veggies for added crunch.
Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado Ingredients
For the Chicken Salad
• Whole rotisserie chicken – an easy, flavorful base that saves time and effort.
• Diced red onion – adds a nice crunch and a hint of sweetness.
• Diced celery – ensures your salad stays fresh and provides a lovely crunch.
• Minced fresh parsley – a burst of color and freshness to brighten the dish.
• Mayo – the creamy element that brings it all together; can be swapped with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Sour cream – adds a tangy depth; you can replace it with more mayo if you prefer.
• Fresh squeezed lime juice – enhances the flavors and keeps the salad zesty.
• Salt – essential for balancing all the flavors.
• Fresh cracked black pepper – brings a little heat and aromatic goodness.
For the Avocado Preparation
• Ripe avocados – look for soft, perfectly ripe avocados that provide a creamy vessel for the salad.
• Lime (juice only) – prevents the avocado from browning and adds a citrusy flavor.
• Salt – seasoning that elevates the taste of the avocados.
• Paprika – adds a smoky depth and gorgeous color to the dish.
• Chili powder – gives a little kick; adjust to your spice preference for the chicken salad stuffed avocado!
How to Make Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado
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Shred the chicken: Begin by removing the meat from the rotisserie chicken. This tender meat will be the star of your salad, so take your time to get all the juicy bits.
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Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the diced chicken along with red onion, celery, parsley, mayo, sour cream, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly mixed and beautifully blended.
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Prepare the avocados: Slice the avocados in half and carefully remove the pits. Use a spoon to gently scoop out a bit of flesh, creating a more generous space for your delicious filling.
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Stabilize the halves: Make a thin slice at the rounded bottom of each avocado half. This will help them stand comfortably when serving, keeping your chicken salad stuffed avocado upright and appealing.
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Season the avocados: Rub the open sides of each avocado half with lime juice to prevent browning. Sprinkle with salt, paprika, and chili powder for added flavor and color.
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Fill with salad: Generously spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken salad into each avocado half. It’s a colorful and delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal that’s ready to impress!
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Serve and enjoy: Arrange the filled avocado halves on a beautiful platter. Gather your friends or family around and dig in – this dish is meant to be shared and savored!
Optional: Garnish with additional lime wedges for a refreshing zest.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado
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Choose ripe avocados: Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure; this ensures they’re creamy and perfect for stuffing.
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Moisture control: If your chicken salad seems a bit dry, add extra mayo or sour cream. This keeps the filling smooth and prevents it from being bland.
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Balance flavors: Taste as you go! Adjust lime juice, salt, and pepper in the chicken salad to find the perfect flavor balance before stuffing the avocados.
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Presentation matters: For an impressive display, arrange the stuffed avocados on a vibrant platter. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and freshness.
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Avoid browning: To keep avocados from browning, use lime juice immediately after cutting. Serve soon after prepping to enjoy peak freshness in your chicken salad stuffed avocado!
What to Serve with Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado?
Elevate your mealtime with delightful accompaniments that enhance each bite of your creamy, zesty dish.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping, these chips add a satisfying crunch and buttery flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
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Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens and vibrant veggies adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the stuffed avocados. Drizzled with a light vinaigrette, it’s a match made in heaven.
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Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy, nutty side not only adds a nutritious touch but also provides a hearty element that complements the lightness of the chicken salad stuffed avocado.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet, caramelized bites add a wonderful contrast in flavor and texture, making each bite a little more exciting.
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Zesty Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw with a hint of vinegar can brighten up your plate and provide a crunchy texture that pairs well with the salad.
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Mango Salsa: The sweetness of fresh mango combined with lime and cilantro creates a vibrant topping that elevates the dish, adding layers of flavor and color.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal’s freshness, while its acidity cuts through the richness of the avocados.
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Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, a scoop of lemon sorbet serves as a delightful palate cleanser, leaving you ready for another bite of savory deliciousness.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado in advance is a brilliant way to save time during busy weekdays! You can make the chicken salad up to 3 days ahead – simply combine the rotisserie chicken, red onion, celery, parsley, mayo, sour cream, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh and flavorful. As for the avocados, it’s best to slice and prepare them right before serving to prevent browning. However, you can cut the avocados in half and rub them with lime juice, then store the halves separately in an airtight container, for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just fill the avocados with the chicken salad, and you’ll have an impressive meal ready to enjoy!
Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful dish your own with these fun swaps and tweaks!
- Greek Yogurt: Substitute mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter alternative full of protein.
- Nuts & Seeds: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your chicken salad an exciting heat.
- Herb Medley: Enhance flavor with a mix of fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a fresh twist.
- Creamy Avocado: Mash additional avocado and blend it into the chicken salad for an ultra-creamy texture.
- Fruity Addition: Toss in some diced apples or grapes for a sweet contrast to the savory chicken salad.
- Cheese Lovin’: Crumble feta or add shredded cheddar to the chicken salad for a savory and rich layer of flavor.
- Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes and black olives for a zesty Mediterranean spin.
Each variation offers a unique twist, inviting you to explore and discover your favorite flavor combinations!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to fill the avocados just before serving to maintain their freshness.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the stuffed avocados once filled, as the texture of the avocado may become mushy upon thawing. You can freeze the chicken salad separately for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If you’ve frozen the chicken salad, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Serve it chilled in fresh avocado halves for a delicious meal.
Assembling: For the best taste and texture, prepare and assemble the Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado fresh right before serving – it’s worth the wait!
Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe avocados for Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado?
Absolutely! Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure; this indicates perfect ripeness. Avoid any avocados with dark spots or blemishes, as they may be overripe or spoiled. A beautiful green skin without bruises will guarantee a creamy texture that’s just right for stuffing.
How should I store leftover chicken salad?
Store the leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it covered will prevent it from absorbing other flavors, ensuring it stays fresh and tasty for your next meal. Just remember, once you’ve filled the avocados, it’s best to enjoy them right away for optimum freshness!
Can I freeze Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado?
It’s not recommended to freeze stuffed avocados, as the texture of the avocado changes and can become mushy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the chicken salad separately for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and serve it in fresh avocado halves for a delightful meal.
What if my chicken salad turns out too dry?
If you find your chicken salad is a bit dry, don’t fret! Simply add additional mayo or sour cream – 1 tablespoon at a time – until it reaches your desired creaminess. This will ensure a delightful moist filling that perfectly complements the creamy avocados.
Can I make Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado for a picnic or gathering?
Very! You can prepare the chicken salad in advance, covering it well and refrigerating it for up to 3 days. Just avoid filling the avocados until you’re ready to serve. This way, the avocados stay fresh and enticing, ensuring your dish looks and tastes fantastic when it’s time to dig in!
Delicious Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocado for Fresh Flavors
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by removing the meat from the rotisserie chicken. This tender meat will be the star of your salad, so take your time to get all the juicy bits.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the diced chicken along with red onion, celery, parsley, mayo, sour cream, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly mixed and beautifully blended.
- Slice the avocados in half and carefully remove the pits. Use a spoon to gently scoop out a bit of flesh, creating a more generous space for your delicious filling.
- Make a thin slice at the rounded bottom of each avocado half. This will help them stand comfortably when serving, keeping your chicken salad stuffed avocado upright and appealing.
- Rub the open sides of each avocado half with lime juice to prevent browning. Sprinkle with salt, paprika, and chili powder for added flavor and color.
- Generously spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken salad into each avocado half. It's a colorful and delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal that’s ready to impress!
- Arrange the filled avocado halves on a beautiful platter. Gather your friends or family around and dig in – this dish is meant to be shared and savored!