Are you ready to elevate your lunch game? My Savory Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocados are the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy. Packed with flavor, these stuffed avocados make a nutritious meal or snack. I'll share tips on selecting ripe avocados, mixing the perfect chicken salad, and making variations to suit your taste. Let’s dive in and create a dish that will impress both your taste buds and guests!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy & Nutritious: This recipe combines lean protein from chicken with healthy fats from avocados, making it a balanced meal.
- Quick & Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy days or a last-minute lunch.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Delicious & Refreshing: The combination of flavors, especially with the fresh herbs, makes this salad incredibly tasty.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for garnish
Nutritional Information
This dish is healthy and filling. Each serving has around:
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fats: 25g
- Fiber: 10g
The avocados add healthy fats. The chicken gives you protein. The grapes and celery add crunch and vitamins.
Tips for Selecting Ripe Avocados
Choose avocados that feel slightly soft when you squeeze them. Look for dark green or black skin. A ripe avocado should not have dark spots or cracks. If they feel too hard, leave them out on the counter for a few days. When they are ready, store them in the fridge if you won’t use them right away.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Avocados
To start, grab two ripe avocados. Cut each avocado in half and take out the pit. Use a spoon to scoop out a bit of the flesh. This creates more space for the filling. Set the avocado halves aside on a plate. Make sure they do not tip over.
Mixing the Chicken Salad Filling
Next, take a mixing bowl. Add one cup of shredded cooked chicken to the bowl. Then, add 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. Chop up 1/4 cup of celery and toss it in too. Now, add 1/4 cup of halved red grapes. Don't forget to put in 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts. For flavor, mix in one tablespoon of Dijon mustard and one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Stir all the ingredients together until they blend well.
Assembling the Stuffed Avocados
Now, it's time to fill the avocados. Take the chicken salad mixture and gently spoon it into each avocado half. Make sure to fill them generously. Once done, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs on top for extra flavor. You can serve them right away or chill them in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This makes the dish even more refreshing. Enjoy your savory chicken salad stuffed avocados!
Tips & Tricks
Suggestions for Seasoning
To really boost flavor, you can add some spices. Try garlic powder or paprika for a nice kick. A bit of cayenne pepper adds warmth. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill enhance the taste too. Don't forget to taste your mix as you go. Adjust salt and pepper until it’s just right.
Best Practices for Perfect Texture
For the best texture, use ripe avocados. They should yield slightly when you press them. If they are too hard, wait a day or two before using. When mixing the chicken salad, avoid over-mixing. You want to keep some chunks for that perfect bite. Adding walnuts gives a nice crunch and flavor.
How to Make Ahead
You can prepare your chicken salad a day early. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. To keep the avocados fresh, slice them right before serving. If you want to prep them, squeeze lemon juice on the cut sides. This helps slow down browning and keeps them looking great.
Pro Tips
- Choose Ripe Avocados: Ensure the avocados are ripe for the best flavor and creaminess. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed.
- Customize Your Chicken Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced apples, cranberries, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- Chill for Extra Refreshment: Refrigerating the stuffed avocados for a short time before serving enhances the flavors and makes for a refreshing dish.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill not only add color but also elevate the flavor profile of your chicken salad.
Variations
Different Protein Options
You can change the protein in your chicken salad. Try using turkey instead of chicken. It gives a nice twist. You can also use canned tuna for a quick option. For a vegetarian take, consider chickpeas. They add great texture and flavor.
Alternative Dressings
Swap Greek yogurt with mayonnaise if you prefer creaminess. You can also mix in avocado instead of yogurt for a richer taste. For a lighter option, try a vinaigrette made with olive oil and lemon juice. This adds a fresh zing.
Creative Add-Ins
Get creative with your chicken salad! Add diced apples for sweetness. They pair well with grapes. You can also include shredded carrots for crunch. If you like heat, toss in jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like cilantro can brighten the flavor too!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store any leftover chicken salad, place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If you have leftover avocado halves, sprinkle lemon juice on them. This helps slow down browning. Wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
Best Storage Practices for Avocados
Avocados are best stored at room temperature if they are not ripe. Once ripe, keep them in the fridge. This slows down ripening. If you cut an avocado, keep the pit in one half. This helps keep it fresh longer. Store any unused half with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Reheating Suggestions
You do not need to reheat chicken salad stuffed avocados. They taste best cold. If you want the chicken salad warm, heat the shredded chicken before mixing. Just be careful not to heat the avocados, as they can get mushy. Enjoy them chilled for a refreshing meal!
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned chicken. It saves time and effort. Just drain and shred it. This option makes the recipe quick and easy. The flavor will still be great. Make sure to mix it well with the other ingredients for a tasty salad.
How to avoid browning of avocados?
To avoid browning, use lemon juice. It slows down oxidation. After cutting, brush the flesh with lemon juice. You can also cover the avocados tightly with plastic wrap. Store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and green longer.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make the chicken salad ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just fill the avocados when ready to eat. This keeps the avocados fresh and tasty.
This blog post covered how to make stuffed avocados. We reviewed the right ingredients, including protein options like chicken. I shared important tips for selecting ripe avocados and steps for perfect preparation.
Remember to store leftovers well and consider creative add-ins for more flavor. With these tips, you can enjoy a healthy meal anytime. Now, it’s your turn to try this tasty recipe and impress your friends!
