Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Stuffed Avocado Chicken Salad combines creamy, ripe avocados with a flavorful chicken salad, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The richness of the avocado pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Stuffed Avocado Chicken Salad

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad:

2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1/4 cup diced celery
1/4 cup diced green onions
1/4 cup red grapes, halved
1/4 cup candied pecans, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

For the Avocados:

2 ripe avocados
Lemon juice, for rubbing on the avocado halves
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken Salad: In a large bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced celery, diced green onions, halved red grapes, chopped candied pecans, and chopped fresh parsley.
Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using) until smooth.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until all ingredients are well coated.
Prepare the Avocados: Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Scoop out a small portion of the avocado flesh to create a well for the chicken salad. Rub the inside of each avocado half with lemon juice to prevent browning and season with salt and pepper.
Assemble: Spoon the prepared chicken salad into each avocado half. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Dairy-Free: Substitute the yogurt and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives such as coconut yogurt and avocado-based mayo.
Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken salad for some heat.
Additional Protein: Incorporate cooked shrimp or tofu cubes for added protein.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: It’s best to serve the chicken salad cold. If you prefer a warm dish, serve the chicken salad over a bed of greens or lightly toasted bread.

FAQs

Can I use grilled chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, grilled or baked chicken can be used as a substitute. Just ensure it’s cooked and shredded before adding to the salad.

How do I prevent the avocados from browning?

Rubbing the inside of the avocado halves with lemon juice helps prevent browning. Additionally, serving the dish immediately after preparation minimizes exposure to air.

Can I prepare the chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, the chicken salad can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to stuff the avocados just before serving to maintain their freshness.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The chicken salad can be made in advance and stored in individual containers. Just add the avocado halves when ready to serve.

Can I add other vegetables to the chicken salad?

Certainly! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots for added crunch and nutrition.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the mayonnaise used is gluten-free if you have sensitivities.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, you can substitute candied pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference.

How do I know if an avocado is ripe?

A ripe avocado yields to firm gentle pressure without indenting. Its skin should be dark green to nearly black.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise alternatives.

How many calories are in one serving?

Each serving contains approximately 111 calories, making it a light and healthy option.

Conclusion

The Stuffed Avocado Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of creamy avocado and flavorful chicken salad, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit different dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a light dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.