Mediterranean BBQ Pulled Chicken Stuffed Avocado Boats
Mediterranean BBQ Pulled Chicken Stuffed Avocado Boats are a bold, fresh, and satisfying meal that blends smoky barbecue flavors with bright Mediterranean ingredients. Tender shredded chicken is coated in a lightly sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, then piled into creamy avocado halves and topped with crisp vegetables, briny olives, and crumbled feta. It is a great option when you want something filling but not heavy, and it works beautifully as a quick lunch, light dinner, or party-friendly appetizer. Every bite delivers creamy, smoky, crunchy, and zesty flavors in perfect balance.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 (8 avocado halves)
Ingredients
For the pulled BBQ chicken:
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast (rotisserie or leftover)
3/4 cup BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Pinch of black pepper
For the avocado boats:
4 ripe but firm avocados, halved and pitted
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Toppings:
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, finely chopped
1/4 cup finely diced cucumber
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons sliced black olives
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional drizzle:
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt mixed with 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
Scoop the cooked chicken into a medium skillet and place it over medium heat.
Add olive oil, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the chicken.
Stir well and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and evenly coated in the sauce.
While the chicken warms, cut the avocados in half and carefully remove the pits.
Brush the cut surfaces of the avocados with fresh lemon juice to prevent browning.
Use a spoon to slightly enlarge the avocado wells by scooping out a little flesh to make room for the filling.
Spoon a generous amount of hot BBQ pulled chicken into each avocado half, packing it lightly.
Top the filled avocados with chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
Sprinkle feta cheese, black olives, and fresh parsley over the top.
Finish with a light drizzle of lemony Greek yogurt if desired and serve immediately.
Tips
Use freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken for the best texture and moisture.
Choose avocados that are ripe but still slightly firm so they hold their shape.
Warm the BBQ sauce before mixing it with the chicken for smoother coating.
Pat the vegetables dry before topping to avoid soggy avocado boats.
Add a pinch of salt to the tomato and cucumber mixture to boost freshness.
If your avocados tip over, slice a tiny piece off the bottom to make them sit flat.
Mix a little lemon zest into the yogurt drizzle for extra brightness.
Keep the chicken warm until just before assembling for the best contrast in temperatures.
Use a spoon with a rounded edge to shape the chicken neatly inside the avocados.
Serve right away to keep the avocados green and fresh.
Variations
Swap BBQ sauce for a spicy harissa sauce for a Mediterranean heat.
Use pulled turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
Add cooked quinoa to the chicken mixture to make it more filling.
Replace feta with shredded mozzarella or pepper jack for a meltier topping.
Add diced roasted red peppers for extra sweetness and color.
Use grilled chicken instead of shredded for a slightly smoky texture.
Stir chopped fresh basil or mint into the topping for a herbaceous twist.
Make it vegan by using jackfruit instead of chicken and dairy-free cheese.
Add a spoonful of hummus under the chicken for extra creaminess.
Turn it into a wrap by spooning the filling into warm pita bread instead of avocados.
Q&A
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the fillings ahead, but assemble the avocado boats right before serving.
How do I keep avocados from browning?
Lemon juice and tight plastic wrap help slow oxidation.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, it is low in carbs if you use a low-sugar BBQ sauce.
Can I use store-bought pulled chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked packaged chicken works well.
What kind of BBQ sauce is best?
A smoky, slightly sweet sauce works best for balance.
Can I serve this cold?
It is best served warm chicken with cool toppings for the best contrast.
How long do leftovers last?
The chicken keeps for up to 3 days refrigerated, but avocados should be fresh.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, simply skip the feta and yogurt drizzle.
What can I serve alongside these boats?
A light salad or grilled vegetables pair nicely.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely, just scale the ingredients and assemble in batches.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 390 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fat: 26 g
Fiber: 9 g
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 620 mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean BBQ Pulled Chicken Stuffed Avocado Boats are a fresh, vibrant twist on comfort food that is both nourishing and satisfying. The creamy avocado, smoky BBQ chicken, crunchy vegetables, and salty feta create a harmony of flavors and textures that feels indulgent without being heavy. Whether you make them for a quick family meal, a healthy lunch, or a colorful party platter, this recipe delivers big flavor, simple steps, and guaranteed crowd appeal.