Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados

Name: Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 2 medium avocados, halved and pitted; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 1/4 cup pesto sauce; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves; Parmesan cheese, grated

Highlighted under: Healthy Light Meals

I absolutely love making Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados for a quick and healthy meal. The combination of creamy avocado and savory, herbaceous pesto chicken never fails to satisfy. It's become my go-to recipe for lunchtime when I want something filling yet light. Plus, the vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it feel like a special treat. I often prepare extra pesto chicken to use in salads or wraps later in the week, which makes meal prep a breeze!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:18:27.908Z

When I first experimented with stuffing avocados, I was amazed at how well they complemented the rich flavors of pesto and chicken. Preparing my pesto from scratch with fresh basil truly elevates this dish. I also learned that roasting the chicken breast with a dash of garlic powder makes it succulently flavorful, perfect for mixing.

It’s a fun recipe to play around with, too. I sometimes add cherry tomatoes for a bit of sweetness or even some crumbled feta for extra tang. Each time I make it, I’m reminded how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create something delicious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy avocado perfectly balanced with zesty pesto chicken
Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients
Customizable with your favorite toppings and ingredients

Selecting the Right Avocado

Choosing the right avocado is crucial for this recipe. Look for avocados that are firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness. While Hass avocados are ideal for their creamy texture, you can also use Fuerte avocados for a lighter flavor. Avoid any avocados with dark spots or hard patches, as these can affect the overall taste and texture of your dish. If you have unripe avocados, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two.

When slicing your avocados, use a sharp chef's knife to achieve clean, even cuts without bruising the flesh. Try to keep the halves intact, as this helps hold the pesto chicken filling better and adds visual appeal. If you're preparing the avocados ahead of time, sprinkle a bit of lemon juice on the cut sides to prevent them from browning too quickly.

Enhancing the Pesto Chicken

The pesto chicken filling can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavors or mixing in cubed mozzarella for an extra creamy texture. If you're a fan of spice, feel free to include crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture. This dish is versatile, so don’t hesitate to incorporate seasonal herbs like cilantro or parsley in addition to the basil for an aromatic twist.

If you're short on time or don't have cooked chicken on hand, rotisserie chicken works wonders as a quick substitute. Simply shred it and combine with pesto as you would with freshly cooked chicken. For a vegetarian alternative, try using chickpeas or white beans, which can provide a similar texture and protein punch.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados

For the Filling

2 medium avocados, halved and pitted
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1/4 cup pesto sauce
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

Fresh basil leaves
Parmesan cheese, grated

Adjust the toppings based on your preferences for an exciting twist each time!

Instructions

How to Prepare Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados

Prepare the Chicken

Start by shredding the cooked chicken. In a bowl, mix it with pesto sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Prepare the Avocados

Slice the avocados in half and remove the pits. Using a spoon, scoop out a bit more flesh to create space for the chicken filling.

Combine and Serve

Fill each avocado half with the pesto chicken mixture and top with cherry tomatoes. Garnish with basil leaves and sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try mixing in some red pepper flakes to the pesto chicken before stuffing the avocados.

Storing and Meal Prepping

If you're making the Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados ahead of time, it's best to store the filling separately from the avocados to maintain their texture. The avocado halves can last in the fridge for a few hours if kept in an airtight container, while the chicken mixture can be stored for up to three days. Just remember to give the avocado a squeeze of lemon juice to help preserve its color and freshness.

Reheating the pesto chicken mixture is simple; just warm it gently in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, ideally over low heat to prevent drying it out. If you're using leftovers for a different meal, consider tossing the chicken in a salad or wrapping it in a tortilla with fresh veggies for an alternative lunch option.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider complementing your pesto chicken stuffed avocados with a light side salad or roasted vegetables. A simple arugula salad topped with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado and savory chicken, offering a refreshing contrast. You can also add some quinoa or whole-grain rice on the side for a more filling option.

To elevate presentation when serving, arrange the stuffed avocados on a platter with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of extra basil. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal, making it an impressive dish for gatherings or an indulgent lunch at home. Enjoy it as an open-faced sandwich alternative, too, by scooping the filling onto crusty bread for a delightful twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto can save time without compromising flavor.

→ What type of chicken is best?

Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience, but grilled or baked chicken is equally delicious.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

The stuffed avocados are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to a day. The avocado may brown slightly, so it’s best to eat them soon after making.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling ahead and assemble the avocados just before eating to keep the avocados fresh.