Stuffed Avocados with Chicken Salad
These Stuffed Avocados with Chicken Salad are a creamy, protein-packed dish perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or snack. Juicy shredded chicken is mixed with a tangy, herby dressing and loaded into ripe avocado halves for a delicious and healthy meal. Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and lean protein, this recipe is easy to customize and can be made in under 20 minutes!
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
For the Avocado Base:
3 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
For the Chicken Salad Filling:
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie or grilled works well)
¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
¼ cup cherry tomatoes, diced (optional)
¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or feta, optional)
For Garnish:
1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Avocados
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits.
2. Gently scoop out a small amount of avocado flesh from each half to make space for the filling.
3. Mash the removed avocado lightly and mix it with the chicken salad for extra creaminess.
4. Drizzle the avocado halves with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Step 2: Make the Chicken Salad
5. In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
6. Add chopped celery, red onion, parsley (or cilantro), and diced cherry tomatoes (if using).
7. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Stuff the Avocados
8. Spoon the chicken salad mixture evenly into each avocado half.
9. Sprinkle with shredded cheese if desired.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
10. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired.
11. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
(Per Stuffed Avocado Half, Approximate)
Calories: ~280
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 7g
Sodium: 300mg
Notes & Tips
Make it dairy-free: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Add crunch: Sprinkle with toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.
Low-carb & keto-friendly: This dish is naturally low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet.
Extra flavor: Mix in crumbled bacon or sun-dried tomatoes.
Meal prep: Store the chicken salad separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days, then assemble when ready to eat.
Common Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?
A: Yes! Drain and shred canned chicken for a quick and easy version.
Q: What’s the best way to keep avocados from browning?
A: Drizzle with lemon or lime juice and store in an airtight container.
Q: Can I use tuna or turkey instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! Tuna or shredded turkey make great substitutes.
Q: What can I serve with these stuffed avocados?
A: They pair well with a side salad, soup, or whole grain crackers.
Stuffed Avocados with Chicken Salad are a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, making a light summer meal, or just craving something creamy and flavorful, this recipe is sure to impress.