Pineapple Jalapeño Chicken Avocado Cups Recipe

When you want to impress your guests with an extraordinary appetizer, look no further than these Pineapple Jalapeño Chicken Avocado Cups with Cilantro Cream. This recipe perfectly balances flavors, combining the sweetness of pineapple with the spiciness of jalapeños and the creaminess of ripe avocados. Not only are they delicious, but they are also visually stunning, making them an attractive addition to any gathering.

This dish is simple to whip up, requiring minimal cooking skills, making it suitable for both novice cooks and culinary enthusiasts. Each avocado half is filled to the brim with a tasty chicken mixture, packed with proteins and vibrant flavors. The cilantro cream drizzled on top not only enhances the presentation but also adds a refreshing note that complements every bite. These stuffed avocado cups are not just meals; they are experiences waiting to be enjoyed!

The Pineapple Jalapeño Chicken Avocado Cups’ combination of ingredients creates a satisfying treat that is both filling and light at the same time. With bright colors and contrasting flavors, these cups are perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a quick and healthy meal option. So let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it in just a few simple steps!

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Jalapeño Chicken Avocado Cups Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The sweet and spicy combination elevates your taste experience.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: Minimal cooking time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh produce.
• Visually Stunning: Bright colors and beautiful presentation make them a feast for the eyes!
• Versatile Dish: Can be served as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a main dish.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to set up your kitchen for success. Here’s how to prepare your workspace efficiently: Begin by gathering all your ingredients: ripe avocados, chicken breasts, pineapple, jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro, and lime. Make sure to have a cutting board and sharp knife ready for chopping the veggies and protein.

Using a skillet will be crucial for cooking the chicken thoroughly, so have that on hand as well. You’ll need a mixing bowl for combining the cilantro cream ingredients, along with a spoon for easy mixing. Lastly, prepare your serving platter for the finished dishes. Having everything organized allows you to focus solely on cooking, making the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• ½ cup chopped pineapple
• 2 diced jalapeños
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the cubed chicken breasts, sautéing them for about 5 to 7 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Cook the chicken thoroughly, ensuring it’s no longer pink on the inside. After the chicken has browned, mix in the chopped pineapple and jalapeños. Allow it to cook for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld together, creating a succulent filling.

Step 2: Make the Cilantro Cream

In a separate small bowl, mix the sour cream, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is combined, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. This cilantro cream will add a fresh and zesty flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Step 3: Prepare the Avocados

Now, take your ripe avocados, and carefully slice them in half. Remove the pits and use a spoon to scoop out a small amount of avocado flesh from the center of each half. This creates enough space for the savory chicken mixture, so be gentle to keep the avocado skins intact.

Step 4: Assemble the Cups

It’s time to bring it all together! Spoon the chicken mixture generously into each avocado half. Don’t be shy; fill them up! Lastly, drizzle the cilantro cream over each cup. This final touch adds not only flavor but also a stunning presentation that will impress everyone at your table.

Variations

• Protein: Substitute chicken with cooked shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers or onions for added texture and flavor.
• Spices: Incorporate spices such as cumin or smoked paprika to enhance the dish’s depth.

Cooking Notes

• Ensure your avocados are ripe but firm; overripe avocados can be too mushy to hold the filling.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before dicing them.
• This dish can be prepared ahead of time; store the chicken mixture and cilantro cream separately until ready to assemble.
• Watch the cooking time for the chicken, as overcooking can make it tough.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings, allowing guests to easily grab a cup.
• Pair with tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal experience.

Tips

• For extra flavor in the chicken, marinate it for at least 30 minutes in lime juice and spices before cooking.
• Drizzle additional lime juice over the completed cups for a fresher taste.
• To add a crunch, sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts on top.
• If preparing for a larger crowd, you can double the recipe easily without a hitch.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

Question 1: Can I prepare these avocado cups in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture and cilantro cream ahead of time. Just keep them separate from the avocado halves until right before serving to maintain freshness.

Question 2: What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt or even a dairy-free sour cream alternative to make this dish lactose-free.

Question 3: How spicy are these cups?

The spice level largely depends on the jalapeños used. If you’d like a milder flavor, remove the seeds and inner membranes.

Question 4: Can leftovers be stored, and if so, how?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 1-2 days. However, it’s best to assemble the cups fresh to maintain the avocado’s texture.

Conclusion

Pineapple Jalapeño Chicken Avocado Cups with Cilantro Cream are an explosion of flavor that combines sweet, spicy, and creamy elements into one delightful dish. Easy to prepare and a feast for the eyes, these stuffed avocado cups offer not just nourishment but a way to connect with friends and family around the table. Whether you’re trying to impress at a dinner party or looking for a quick, healthy meal, these cups are guaranteed to be a hit. So don’t hesitate to try them out and share your variations in the comments below. Enjoy the cooking process and the joy of serving something truly unique!

Pineapple Jalapeño Chicken Avocado Cups

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• Author: Alioui
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A delightful appetizer combining sweet pineapple, spicy jalapeños, and creamy avocado.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• ½ cup chopped pineapple
• 2 diced jalapeños
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the cubed chicken breasts, sautéing them for about 5 to 7 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Cook the chicken thoroughly, ensuring it’s no longer pink on the inside. After the chicken has browned, mix in the chopped pineapple and jalapeños. Allow it to cook for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld together, creating a succulent filling.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix the sour cream, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is combined, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. This cilantro cream will add a fresh and zesty flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste profile.
3. Now, take your ripe avocados, and carefully slice them in half. Remove the pits and use a spoon to scoop out a small amount of avocado flesh from the center of each half. This creates enough space for the savory chicken mixture, so be gentle to keep the avocado skins intact.
4. It’s time to bring it all together! Spoon the chicken mixture generously into each avocado half. Don’t be shy; fill them up! Lastly, drizzle the cilantro cream over each cup. This final touch adds not only flavor but also a stunning presentation that will impress everyone at your table.

Notes

This dish can be prepared ahead of time; store the chicken mixture and cilantro cream separately until ready to assemble. Ensure your avocados are ripe but firm; overripe avocados can be too mushy to hold the filling.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Protein: 20 g