California Avocado Chicken Salad in a Half-shell

California Avocado Chicken Salad in a Half-shell Recipe - A Delightful Fusion of Flavors

Region / culture: California | Preparation time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

California Avocado Chicken Salad in a Half-shell is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the creamy texture of avocados with the savory flavors of chicken and fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and is sure to impress your guests with its beautiful presentation.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional chicken salad, incorporating California avocados for a unique and flavorful twist. Avocados have been cultivated in California since the early 20th century, and are now a staple in California cuisine. This recipe takes advantage of the creamy texture and mild flavor of avocados to create a delicious and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

3.5 lb (1.59 kg) boneless chicken breasts, skinned, cooked and shredded
0.25 cup fresh lemon juice
2 cup celery, sliced
2 cup green onions, chopped
1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
3 red bell peppers, finely chopped
1.5 cup mayonnaise
salt and pepper to taste
6 california avocados, halved and seeded
0.25 cup fresh lemon juice
3 california avocados, seeded, peeled and diced
mixed seasonal fruit as needed

How to prepare

In a large bowl, toss the chicken with lemon juice.
Add celery, onions, cilantro, bell pepper, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Prepare avocado half-shells as per order.
Drizzle the avocado half-shells generously with lemon juice to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
Just before serving, gently toss the diced avocado with the chicken.
Place two avocado half-shells on a plate.
Fill the avocado half-shells with the chicken mixture.
Garnish with mixed seasonal fruit.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes, black beans, or corn for a Southwestern twist.
Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option.
Top with crumbled bacon or shredded cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.

- Shred the chicken while it is still warm for easier mixing with the other ingredients.

- Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Drizzle the avocado half-shells with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a bright, citrusy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the California Avocado Chicken Salad in a Half-shell as a light lunch or dinner option, accompanied by a side salad or fresh fruit.

Cooking Techniques

Shred the chicken while it is still warm for easier mixing with the other ingredients.

- Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute cooked turkey or tuna for the chicken.

- Use red onion instead of green onions for a sharper flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The chicken salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Prepare the avocado half-shells and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the avocado half-shells with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation. - Serve the chicken salad in a bed of lettuce or mixed greens for added color and texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Do not freeze as the avocado may become mushy when thawed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

25g per serving

Proteins

20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins. It is a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Summary

California Avocado Chicken Salad in a Half-shell is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. With its creamy avocado, savory chicken, and fresh vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory like a beautiful painting hanging on the walls of my mind. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining brightly, and a gentle breeze was blowing through the kitchen window. I had just returned from a visit to the farmer's market, where I had picked up some fresh California avocados, plump tomatoes, and juicy chicken breasts.

As I unpacked my groceries and laid them out on the kitchen counter, I couldn't help but feel inspired to create something special for dinner that evening. I had always loved experimenting with new recipes and trying out different flavor combinations, and today was no exception.

I remembered a conversation I had with a dear friend a few weeks ago, who had raved about a delicious California Avocado Chicken Salad she had tried at a fancy restaurant. The dish was served in a half-shell avocado, with chunks of tender chicken, ripe tomatoes, and creamy avocado all tossed together in a tangy dressing. It sounded like the perfect summer meal, light and refreshing yet satisfying.

I immediately set to work, slicing the avocados in half and carefully scooping out the flesh to create a hollow vessel for the salad. I diced up the chicken breasts and cooked them in a skillet until they were golden brown and juicy. Meanwhile, I chopped up the tomatoes and whisked together a simple dressing of lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey.

As I mixed everything together in a large bowl, the colors of the dish came alive – bright green avocados, vibrant red tomatoes, and golden brown chicken all mingling together with the zesty dressing. The aroma wafting through the kitchen was intoxicating, a tantalizing blend of fresh herbs, citrus, and creamy avocado.

I carefully spooned the salad into the hollowed-out avocado halves, making sure to pack it in tightly so that each bite would be bursting with flavor. I garnished the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, and then placed the avocado halves on a platter to serve.

When my family sat down to dinner that evening and took their first bites of the California Avocado Chicken Salad in a Half-shell, their eyes lit up with delight. The flavors were perfectly balanced – the creamy avocado, the juicy chicken, the tangy tomatoes, and the zesty dressing all coming together in a symphony of taste.

My husband couldn't stop raving about how delicious the dish was, and my children eagerly asked for seconds. I felt a swell of pride and satisfaction knowing that I had created something truly special, a recipe that would surely become a staple in our household for years to come.

As we sat around the table, savoring each bite of the salad and enjoying the warm summer evening, I couldn't help but think about all the wonderful recipes I had collected over the years. Each one told a story, a memory of a special moment shared with a friend, a family member, or a stranger who had generously shared their culinary wisdom with me.

The California Avocado Chicken Salad in a Half-shell would now join the ranks of those cherished recipes, a reminder of a sunny summer day and a delicious meal shared with the ones I love. And as I cleaned up the kitchen that night, humming a tune of contentment, I knew that there would always be more recipes to discover, more flavors to explore, and more memories to create in the kitchen. Cooking, after all, is not just about feeding the body – it's about nourishing the soul.