Smoky Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocados
A protein-packed, low-carb meal that’s ready in minutes and perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
KEY INFO
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (using rotisserie chicken)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 (8 avocado halves)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Diet: Gluten-free, Low-carb
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon for scooping avocados
- (Pro-tip: A grapefruit spoon works brilliantly for avocado scooping)
INGREDIENTS
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (1 rotisserie chicken or 3 cooked breasts)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (120ml)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (40g)
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (15ml)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Assembly:
- 4 ripe avocados
- Extra lemon juice for brushing
- Chopped chives for garnish (optional)
METHOD
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Mix shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, diced onion, celery, parsley, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well combined. - Prepare the Avocados
Cut avocados lengthwise and remove pits. Brush cut sides immediately with lemon juice to prevent browning. - Assembly
Spoon chicken mixture generously into each avocado half. Garnish with extra parsley and chives if desired.
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure.
- If making ahead, store chicken salad separately from avocados.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice brush – it prevents browning.
- Taste chicken salad before stuffing and adjust seasonings.
STORAGE & VARIATIONS
Storage:
- Chicken salad keeps for 3 days refrigerated.
- Prepared avocados should be eaten the same day.
Variations:
- Curry: Add 2 tsp curry powder and golden raisins.
- Mexican: Swap paprika for chipotle powder, add lime and cilantro.
- Mediterranean: Add diced cucumber and use herbs like dill.
Common Mistakes:
- Over-mashing the avocado when scooping.
- Under-seasoning the chicken mixture.
- Using unripe avocados.
I’ve made this recipe countless times for meal prep, and it never fails to impress. The key is getting the seasoning right in your chicken mixture – don’t be shy with the smoked paprika, it makes all the difference!
