Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados

Name: Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 1/3 cup pesto sauce; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 ripe avocados; Juice of 1 lemon; Cherry tomatoes for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

I absolutely adore making Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados when I want a healthy yet indulgent meal. The creamy avocado combined with the savory pesto and tender chicken creates a delightful balance of flavors. It's not only quick to whip up, but it also always impresses guests. Plus, avocados pack in healthy fats and nutrients, making this dish a wellness treat. Join me as we dive into this exciting recipe that will quickly become your go-to for any occasion!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:06:27.905Z

When I first made Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a delicious dish. The trick lies in using pre-cooked chicken and quality pesto; this saves so much time and infuses the stuffing with fantastic flavor. I usually grill the chicken beforehand, giving it that lovely smoky taste.

One of my favorite tips is to use ripe avocados but not overly soft ones. This ensures the avocados hold their shape and provide the perfect vessel for the tasty filling. Trust me, this dish will not disappoint!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy avocados stuffed with savory, herb-infused chicken
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A healthy meal rich in nutrients and flavor

Perfecting the Filling

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the chicken filling. When selecting your chicken, consider using rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option. If you’re cooking chicken from scratch, poaching or grilling it until it's tender will yield the best results. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooled before shredding it, as this helps maintain the texture without it becoming mushy when mixed with the pesto and cheese.

When combining the chicken with pesto sauce, make sure to choose a high-quality store-bought version or make your own. The freshness of the basil, garlic, and other ingredients in the pesto will elevate the overall flavor profile of the dish. Taste the mixture before seasoning with salt and pepper to avoid over-salting if your pesto is already salty.

Serving Suggestions

These Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados can be served as a main dish or a delightful appetizer. For a balanced meal, consider pairing them with a light quinoa salad or some roasted vegetables. The creaminess of the avocado complements the savory filling beautifully, creating a satisfying bite. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the dish's aesthetic and flavor.

If you're entertaining guests, arrange the stuffed avocados on a colorful platter and drizzle some balsamic reduction for an elegant touch. Don't hesitate to switch up the garnish with other toppings like crumbled feta or a drizzle of olive oil for added layers of flavor. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides an exciting range of textures with every bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create an amazing meal:

For the Stuffing

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1/3 cup pesto sauce
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocados

2 ripe avocados
Juice of 1 lemon
Cherry tomatoes for garnish (optional)

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados:

Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, pesto, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Cut the Avocados

Slice the avocados in half and remove the pit. Drizzle the lemon juice over the flesh to prevent browning.

Stuff the Avocados

Generously fill each avocado half with the chicken mixture.

Garnish and Serve

Top with cherry tomatoes if desired and serve immediately.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the stuffing by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, olives, or even mozzarella for an extra flavor twist!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make a lower-carb version of this dish, consider substituting the chicken with chickpeas or cauliflower for a vegetarian option that still packs a punch of protein and flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade pesto made with nuts other than pine nuts—like walnuts or sunflower seeds—if you're concerned about allergies or dietary restrictions. Also, keep in mind that nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for grated parmesan, providing a cheesy flavor without dairy.

For those watching their sodium intake, be cautious with the pesto sauce and cheese. Look for low-sodium versions, or try making a homemade pesto with less salt. You can also experiment with different types of nut-free pesto, such as arugula or spinach-based blends, which will yield a vibrant green color and refreshing taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These stuffed avocados are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the avocado halves and filling separately to minimize browning. You can keep the stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2-3 days. To reheat the chicken filling, warm it gently in some olive oil over low heat. Avoid microwaving the chicken as it can dry it out.

If you want to prepare this meal ahead of time, consider making the chicken filling a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the dish. When ready to serve, simply slice fresh avocados and stuff them right before serving to retain their taste and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and store it in the fridge. Just stuff the avocados just before serving to keep them fresh.

→ What can I substitute for pesto?

You can use homemade basil sauce, tahini, or even hummus if you're looking for alternative flavors.

→ Are there any low-carb alternatives?

Yes! Instead of using avocados, you can stuff bell peppers or zucchini boats for a low-carb option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid storing filled avocados as they may brown quickly.