What to Cook with Chicken and Avocado (10 Ideas From Top Chefs and Cooks)

These recipes showcase the versatility of chicken and avocado, offering a variety of flavors and textures to enjoy in every bite. Whether you're craving a light salad, hearty wrap, or comforting bowl, these dishes are sure to satisfy your appetite. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and creating your own unique twists on these classic combinations!

1. Grilled Chicken and Avocado Salad: Marinate chicken breasts in your favorite spices, then grill until cooked through. Slice and serve over a bed of mixed greens, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette.
2. Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas: Fill flour tortillas with cooked chicken, sliced avocado, cheese, and any desired toppings like bell peppers or onions. Cook until crispy and golden brown, then serve with salsa and sour cream.
3. Avocado Chicken Wraps: Spread mashed avocado onto whole wheat wraps, then layer with sliced grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Roll up and enjoy a quick and healthy lunch.
4. Chicken Avocado Rice Bowls: Cook brown rice and top with sliced grilled chicken, diced avocado, black beans, corn, and salsa. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
5. Avocado Stuffed Chicken Breast: Cut a pocket into chicken breasts and stuff with mashed avocado, shredded cheese, and diced tomatoes. Secure with toothpicks, then bake until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
6. Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad: Combine sliced grilled chicken, avocado, fresh mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil for a refreshing and satisfying salad.
7. Avocado Chicken Pasta: Toss cooked pasta with diced grilled chicken, avocado chunks, cherry tomatoes, and a creamy avocado sauce made with blended avocados, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
8. Chicken Avocado Sandwich: Layer sliced grilled chicken, avocado, crispy bacon, lettuce, and tomato between slices of whole grain bread. Add a smear of mayo or mustard for extra flavor.
9. Avocado Chicken Caesar Wrap: Fill a whole wheat wrap with sliced grilled chicken, avocado, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. Roll up tightly and slice for a portable and delicious meal.
10. Chicken Avocado Breakfast Bowl: Top cooked quinoa or brown rice with sautéed spinach, grilled chicken, sliced avocado, and a fried egg. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and hot sauce for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option.

What to Cook with Chicken and Avocado FAQ

1. Can I use any type of avocado for these recipes?
   While Hass avocados are the most commonly used variety due to their creamy texture and rich flavor, you can use other types like Fuerte or Reed based on availability and personal preference.
2. How do I know if an avocado is ripe?
   Ripe avocados should yield to gentle pressure when squeezed, but shouldn't be overly soft or mushy. You can also remove the small stem at the top - if it comes off easily and reveals green underneath, the avocado is ripe.
3. How can I prevent avocados from turning brown?
   To prevent avocados from browning, squeeze a bit of lemon or lime juice over the flesh or store them with the pit intact. Wrapping tightly with plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container can also help slow down the oxidation process.
4. Can I cook avocado?
   While avocado is typically enjoyed raw, it can also be lightly cooked. However, it's important to note that heating avocado can cause it to become bitter or lose its creamy texture, so it's best used in recipes where it's added at the end of cooking or just heated through.
5. Are there any alternatives to avocado in these recipes?
   If you're unable to find ripe avocados or prefer not to use them, you can try substituting with guacamole, hummus, or even Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and added flavor.
6. Can I freeze dishes containing avocado?
   Avocado doesn't freeze well on its own due to its high water content, which can cause it to become mushy when thawed. However, dishes like soups or sauces containing avocado may freeze better, although the texture may be slightly altered upon thawing.
7. Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?
   Many of these recipes can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for several days. However, if using avocado, it's best to add it just before serving to prevent browning.
8. How can I customize these recipes to suit my dietary preferences?
   These recipes can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and restrictions. For example, you can use tofu or beans as a substitute for chicken in vegetarian versions, or use gluten-free tortillas or pasta for gluten-free options.
9. Can I use pre-cooked chicken in these recipes?
   Yes, pre-cooked chicken such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken can be used in these recipes to save time. Simply shred or slice the chicken and add it according to the recipe instructions.
10. Where can I find more chicken and avocado recipes?
    There are numerous cookbooks, food blogs, and online recipe websites dedicated to chicken and avocado recipes. You can also experiment and create your own unique dishes by combining chicken, avocado, and your favorite ingredients.

These FAQs aim to address common queries and provide helpful tips for cooking with chicken and avocado, allowing you to create delicious and satisfying meals with ease. Enjoy exploring the versatility of these two ingredients and experimenting with different flavors and combinations!