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This stuffed avocado recipe is a quick and nourishing way to bring fresh flavors to your table using creamy avocados and a simple rotisserie chicken salad. It is perfect for any meal when you want something satisfying but not heavy.
I first tried this after a day at the farmers market when avocados were perfectly ripe. Now I reach for it every time I want a refreshing dish with minimal effort and maximum payoff.
Ingredients
- Rotisserie chicken: gives savory flavor and makes prep fast Buy the freshest you can find with juicy meat
- Red onion: adds crunch and brightness Look for firm onions with shiny skin
- Celery: lends extra crispness Choose stalks that feel firm not rubbery
- Fresh parsley: brings herbal notes Flat leaf Italian parsley is best
- Mayonnaise: makes the salad creamy Use a good quality mayo for rich taste
- Sour cream: adds tang and silkiness Use full fat for best flavor
- Fresh lime juice: lifts and balances the richness Use limes that feel heavy for their size
- Salt and cracked black pepper: are essentials for well rounded taste
- Ripe avocados: are the creamy base Look for avocados with slight give but no sunken spots
- Paprika: gives subtle sweetness and color Choose fresh paprika that smells fragrant
- Chili powder: gives gentle warmth Make sure it is fresh for the boldest flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Salad:
- Take apart your rotisserie chicken and pick all the meat from the bones Discard skin and cartilage Then dice the meat into bite sized pieces and add to a large mixing bowl
- Add and Mix Ingredients:
- Toss in diced red onion diced celery and chopped fresh parsley Spoon in the mayonnaise and sour cream Pour in lime juice then sprinkle with salt and cracked black pepper Mix until the salad is evenly creamy and the veggies are well distributed
- Prepare the Avocados:
- Cut each avocado in half and remove the pit Use a large spoon carefully slide it under the skin to lift out the flesh in one piece Keep it intact for presentation
- Stabilize and Season Avocado Halves:
- Make a thin slice on the bottom of each half so they will stand upright on the plate Rub the whole surface with fresh lime juice then season lightly with salt Next dust a pinch of paprika and chili powder over each half
- Stuff the Avocados:
- Spoon about one third cup of chicken salad into the cavity of each avocado mound generously and arrange attractively on a platter Serve right away for best color and flavor
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I love using homegrown parsley for this salad because it perks up the flavor and brings a memory of my grandmother’s garden to every bite My kids get excited whenever they see the colorful avocado boats lined up on the table
Storage Tips
Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Only cut and stuff avocados when you are ready to serve because they brown quickly Leftover seasoned avocado can be mashed for a speedy guacamole
Ingredient Substitutions
Greek yogurt makes a lighter swap for sour cream Fresh dill can replace parsley for a different herbal note If you do not like raw onion, try mild shallot or omit it altogether
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed avocados shine as a light dinner with a crisp salad or as a protein packed lunch For parties slice each half in sections and serve on a big tray with fresh veggies or tortilla chips
Cultural Inspiration
Stuffed avocados started as a creative way to use up left over meats in markets all over the Americas My recipe leans on classic American chicken salad but the spice and lime nod to Mexican flavors
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make the chicken salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken salad in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- → How do I prevent avocados from browning quickly?
Cut and fill avocados right before serving, and rub each half thoroughly with fresh lime juice to help maintain their color.
- → What type of chicken works best?
Rotisserie chicken is recommended for convenience and flavor, but any cooked, shredded chicken breast can be substituted.
- → Are there any substitutions for mayo or sour cream?
For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of mayo or sour cream, or adjust based on your dietary preferences.
- → Can these be made for a crowd?
Yes, the quantities are flexible. Simply adjust the number of avocados and amount of chicken salad to suit your guest count.
- → What should I do with leftover stuffed avocados?
Separate any remaining filling and mash the seasoned avocado halves into guacamole for a tasty spread or dip.