Avocado Fiesta Chicken Salad
This vibrant Avocado Fiesta Chicken Salad is inspired by the thrills of the State Fair of Texas and combines zesty flavors with fresh ingredients for a delightful lunch or snack. Bursting with color and nutrition, this dish features tender shredded chicken and creamy avocados, perfectly complemented by a tangy lime-cumin dressing. Each bite is not only a feast for the palate but also a playful nod to exhilarating moments—like riding the tallest Ferris Wheel in North America. Serve it in halved avocados for a fun presentation that brings a taste of the fair right to your kitchen, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or impromptu gatherings. Join me on this culinary ride, but no need to fear—I promise, it’s much more enjoyable than a dizzying Ferris wheel!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
4 (tablespoons)
lime juice
2 (limes)
ground cumin
1/2 (teaspoon)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
salt
to taste
black pepper
to taste
cilantro
4 (tablespoons, chopped)
cherry tomatoes
1 (cup, halved)
red onion
2/3 (cup, chopped)
cooked chicken breasts
3 (cups, shredded)
ripe avocados
3 (peeled and pitted)
Instructions
1
In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil, lime juice, ground cumin, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously to blend until the dressing is emulsified and well mixed.
2
In a medium mixing bowl, add the chopped cilantro, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and shredded chicken. Combine gently to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
3
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4
Cut the ripe avocados in half and remove the pits. Use a spoon to gently scoop some flesh out if needed to create a bigger cavity.
5
Spoon the zesty chicken salad generously into the avocado halves, ensuring each half is filled to the brim.
6
Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Avocado Fiesta Chicken Salad?
This is a vibrant and nutritious dish featuring tender shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy avocados with a zesty lime-cumin dressing.
How many avocados do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 ripe avocados, which are peeled, pitted, and halved to serve as bowls.
What are the ingredients for the dressing?
The dressing is made from 4 tablespoons of olive oil, juice from 2 limes, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 2 minced garlic cloves, salt, and black pepper.
How do I prepare the chicken?
You will need 3 cups of cooked chicken breasts that have been shredded.
What vegetables are included in the salad?
The salad includes 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and 2/3 cup of chopped red onion.
How do I make the dressing emulsify?
Combine the dressing ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake it vigorously until well mixed.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time when preparing the 3 cups of shredded chicken needed.
What is the best way to serve this salad?
The chicken salad should be spooned generously into the cavities of halved avocados and served immediately.
How do I prepare the avocados?
Cut them in half, remove the pits, and if necessary, scoop out a small amount of flesh to create a larger space for the filling.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
You can prepare the chicken mixture and dressing in advance, but it is best to slice and fill the avocados just before serving to prevent browning.
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved.
Is there cilantro in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses 4 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Can I substitute the lime juice?
While lime juice provides the intended zesty flavor, you could use lemon juice if limes are unavailable.
What is the inspiration behind this dish?
It is inspired by the vibrant flavors and fun atmosphere of the State Fair of Texas.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it is a nutrition-packed meal featuring high-protein chicken and heart-healthy fats from avocados and olive oil.
Can I use different types of onions?
While red onion is recommended for its color and sharp bite, you could substitute with green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
How much cumin is in the dressing?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin to provide an earthy, smoky undertone.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Since it uses 3 avocados halved, it provides 6 individual servings if each half is treated as one portion.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients listed, this Avocado Fiesta Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free.
Can I add extra spice to the salad?
Absolutely; you could add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture for more heat.
What should I do with the extra avocado flesh I scoop out?
You can mash it and mix it directly into the chicken salad or save it for another use like a sandwich spread.
Is this a good dish for potlucks?
Yes, it is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any gathering where you want a fresh, easy-to-eat snack.
Does the recipe use garlic?
Yes, it uses 2 cloves of minced garlic in the dressing for a savory flavor profile.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is highly recommended for this 'fiesta' style flavor, but you can use 1-2 teaspoons of dried cilantro if fresh is not available.
How do I prevent the avocados from tipping over on the plate?
If the avocados won't sit flat, you can slice a tiny sliver off the bottom of the skin to create a flat base.
Can I serve the chicken salad in a different way?
Yes, if you don't want to use avocado halves, you can chop the avocado and mix it into the salad, then serve it in lettuce wraps or over greens.
What kind of oil is recommended for the dressing?
The recipe specifies 4 tablespoons of olive oil.
How long does it take to prepare?
If your chicken is already cooked and shredded, the assembly takes only about 10-15 minutes.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, this is an excellent low-carb and keto-friendly meal option.
Can I add corn or beans to this?
Yes, adding black beans or corn would complement the fiesta flavors perfectly, though it will change the nutritional profile.