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On those scorching days when you just want something chill but filling, this chicken salad inside avocados always clicks. With rotisserie chicken, a handful of fresh stuff, and buttery avocados, this quick meal is a hit and vanishes fast when the family gathers.
The first time I made this for a backyard get-together, everyone grabbed seconds. Tangy chicken and cool avocado fit the warm weather perfectly, so now I keep this on repeat all the time.
Delicious Ingredients
- Paprika and chili powder: dust on top for mild heat and a smoky note smoked paprika's got extra depth
- Salt and cracked black pepper: season to taste flaky salt makes a difference
- Mayonnaise: brings the creamy factor and holds it all together pick a mayo with lots of flavor
- Celery: brings crunch and freshness, grab stalks that look lively and green
- Red onion: adds bite and a bit of snap, pick ones that feel firm and glossy
- Ripe avocados: your edible bowls soft but not mushy is key use them right when serving
- Sour cream: softens the mix and perks things up full-fat makes it silky
- Fresh lime juice: gives a kick and helps everything pop roll limes first to get the most juice
- Rotisserie chicken: shortcut to flavor and ready in a flash get a juicy, good-smelling one
- Fresh parsley: gives some color and a clean, herby note flatleaf is boldest
Simple Steps
- Finish Up and Serve:
- Spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken mix into each avocado cup line them up on a pretty plate and eat right away for best texture
- Add the Seasonings:
- Brush more lime juice on each avocado half so they don't brown toss on a bit of salt chili powder and paprika for more flavor
- Prep Your Avocados:
- Slice avocados down the middle, take out the pits, and scoop gently with a spoon to keep each half whole if they rock, trim a little off the bottom so they sit still
- Toss Together the Salad:
- Mix up the chopped chicken with a scoop of mayonnaise, sour cream, diced red onion, parsley, celery, fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper keep mixing till creamy and taste to tweak the flavors
- Dice the Chicken:
- Pull meat from your rotisserie chicken and chop into little bites get both white and dark pieces for best flavor dump in a big bowl
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The store-bought chicken is the real star here. My little cousin always wants to make quick guac with extra avocado, so we keep things fun even after the eating's done.
Storing Leftovers
If you're planning ahead, you can mix the chicken salad the night before. Only prep and fill your avocado halves right before mealtime, or else they'll turn brown. Save leftovers by pressing plastic wrap tight on the surface to keep the color nice.
Swap Ideas
No sour cream? Greek yogurt does the trick. Toss in some chopped walnuts for extra crunch, or add a little handful of chopped dill or tarragon if you want something bolder.
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How to Serve
Set out these avocado boats for lunch, a light main, or a party app. They’re tasty next to crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, or even sweet fruit salad for something different.
Story Behind It
This idea comes from California, where fresh light bites are big. I first enjoyed it during a sun-soaked summer by the ocean, so now it feels like bringing a little sunshine to my table anytime.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken works best in this dish?
Grab a rotisserie chicken if you want quick and juicy chicken, but you can use any cooked, chopped chicken breast or thigh that you’ve got around.
- → Can the chicken salad filling be made in advance?
Definitely—just mix everything ahead of time and stash it in an airtight container in the fridge. That way it stays fresh and tasty.
- → How do I keep avocados from browning?
Once you slice open the avocado, run a little lime juice over the cut side. It slows down the brown and keeps the flesh green.
- → Is there a way to adjust the spice level?
Sure, sprinkle as much or as little chili powder and paprika as you like so you get it the way you want—super mild or with more kick!
- → What can I do with leftover stuffed avocados?
If you’re left with stuffed avocados, scoop the inside out and mash it up. You’ll have easy guac for later.
- → Can I customize the filling with other ingredients?
Totally! Try tossing in chopped apples, grapes, or some nuts for more crunch and different flavors in your chicken salad.