Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns

Name: Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Colombian
Ingredients: 1 Colombian-style bun (or homemade arepa de choclo); 15g / 0.5 oz grated cheese; 1 cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced; 1 small ripe avocado, mashed; 1 small tomato, finely diced; 2 tbsp / 30ml red onion, finely chopped; 1 tbsp / 15ml fresh coriander, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: pinch of cumin, dash of hot sauce, or spoonful of ají

If you’re on the hunt for a light yet satisfying bite that delivers a medley of textures and bold Latin American flavours, these Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns may just become your new favourite. Inspired by the vibrant street food culture of Colombia, this recipe brings together tender cooked chicken, creamy ripe avocado, zesty lime juice, and the fresh crunch of tomato and red onion, all packed inside a warm Colombian-style bun, finished with a crispy layer of melted cheese. It’s a fusion of comfort and character, perfect for any time of day.

What makes these Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns so memorable is their simplicity. With only a handful of ingredients and a fuss-free method, you can create something incredibly flavourful and satisfying in just minutes. The flavours are bright and balanced — citrusy lime against buttery avocado, savoury chicken, and the freshness of coriander. Then there’s that special Colombian twist: a melted cheese “crust” toasted directly onto the bun for added crunch and flavour, reminiscent of Colombian street snacks and comfort food staples.

Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns don’t just deliver on flavour, they also offer practicality. Quick to make, easy to customise, and perfect for meals on the go, these buns are ideal for busy weekdays, spontaneous weekend brunches, or even picnic outings. Their contrast of textures — crisp, soft, creamy, juicy, makes every bite engaging, while the classic combination of chicken and avocado ensures broad appeal.

Whether you’re introducing Colombian-inspired food to your household or simply in the mood for something fresh and delicious, these Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns check all the boxes. They’re easy, flexible, satisfying, and packed with good-for-you ingredients. Keep this one in your regular recipe rotation — it’s sure to become a standout.

Why You Will Love These Colombian Style Chicken and Avocado Buns

There’s a lot to love about Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns, and once you’ve made them, you’ll understand why they’re so special. For starters, they’re quick and easy — ready in about 15 minutes, with no complicated techniques or equipment required. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned home cooks, this recipe balances speed and flavour beautifully.

The true magic of these Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns lies in their flavour profile. Creamy avocado mashed with lime and salt acts as the perfect base for shredded cooked chicken, while diced tomato and red onion provide freshness and a bit of crunch. Then comes the herbaceous hit of coriander — a hallmark of Colombian cuisine. Optional spices like cumin or a splash of ají (a spicy Colombian condiment) give you the freedom to tailor the recipe to your tastes.

And let’s not forget the bun itself. The Colombian-style bun is toasted with melted cheese on one side, forming a crisp, savoury layer that’s absolutely irresistible. It’s a clever and practical technique that keeps everything together and makes each bite satisfyingly crunchy.

Even better, these Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns are customisable, travel well, and offer a nutritious option for lunch or a light dinner. Whether you’re packing them for work, serving them to guests, or enjoying them on a quiet afternoon, they deliver a little taste of Colombia in a tidy, hand-held package. They’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Don’t forget to also check my Cheese Stuffed Plantain Arepas

Equipment You Will Need

Mixing Bowl – For combining the avocado, chicken, and other filling ingredients.
Fork – To mash the avocado into a creamy yet chunky texture.
Chopping Board – For prepping the tomato, red onion, and coriander.
Sharp Knife – To finely dice vegetables and shred or slice the cooked chicken.
Citrus Juicer (optional) – Helps you extract the most juice from your lime.
Measuring Spoons – For accurately measuring lime juice, red onion, coriander, and spices.
Grater – Use this to finely grate the cheese that forms the crispy layer on the bun.
Non-stick Frying Pan – Essential for melting the cheese and toasting the bun.
Spatula – To flip the bun and ensure even toasting on both sides.

Ingredients

1 Colombian-style bun – Soft yet firm enough to hold the filling; Deli Kitchen is a good option but if you want a home made gluten free version you can try my Arepa de Choclo recipe
15g / 0.5 oz grated cheese – Forms a crispy, golden crust when toasted
1 cooked chicken breast – Shredded or diced, provides lean protein
1 small ripe avocado – Mashed, creamy, and packed with healthy fats
1 small tomato, finely diced – Adds freshness and colour
2 tbsp / 30ml red onion, finely chopped – For a mild, zesty bite
1 tbsp / 15ml fresh coriander, chopped – Brings a fragrant, citrusy note
Juice of 1 lime – Adds brightness and acidity
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of cumin, dash of hot sauce, or spoonful of ají – Customise the flavour to your liking

Method

1. Mash the Avocado
In a bowl, mash the avocado with a fork until it’s mostly smooth but still a bit chunky.

2. Add the Filling Ingredients
Add in the cooked chicken, tomato, red onion, and coriander. Stir gently to combine.

3. Season and Add Lime
Squeeze in the lime juice, then add salt, pepper, and any optional spices or hot sauce. Mix well.

4. Melt the Cheese
In a non-stick frying pan over medium heat, sprinkle the cheese in a circular shape roughly the size of the bun. Allow it to melt and bubble.

5. Toast One Side of the Bun
Place half of the Colombian-style bun over the melted cheese. Let it toast until the cheese adheres and turns golden.

6. Assemble the Bun
Flip the bun over, add the chicken and avocado mixture, then top with the other half of the bun.

7. Final Toast
Press gently and continue toasting until both sides of the bun are crisp and golden. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

(per serving)

Calories: 415 kcal
Protein: 32g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Sugars: 3g
Fibre: 6g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Tips for Making these Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns

Use very ripe avocados for the creamiest texture.
Toast the cheese slowly for an ultra-crisp crust.
Season the filling well to balance the richness of the avocado.
Use pre-cooked or leftover chicken to save time.
Don’t overfill the bun — it will be harder to flip.
Fresh lime juice is essential; avoid bottled.
Add extra coriander for more herbaceous flavour.
If using ají, start with a small amount — it’s potent!
Serve immediately for the best texture.
Use kitchen tongs if spatula flipping is tricky.

How to Best Serve these Colombian-Style Chicken and Avocado Buns

Pair these Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns with a chilled gazpacho.
Serve with a mango or papaya salad for a tropical twist.
Cut into mini triangles and serve as appetisers at gatherings.
Add a fried egg on top for a more indulgent brunch.
Pair with sweet potato wedges or plantain chips.
Serve with a chilled limeade or tamarind juice.
Top with sliced jalapeños if you love heat.
Wrap in foil for a hot, portable lunch.
Serve with Colombian ají sauce for dipping.
Add a fresh fruit salad on the side for balance.

Customise These Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns

Make it vegetarian by substituting grilled halloumi or black beans for the chicken.
Use gluten-free buns to suit dietary needs.
Try adding pickled onions or cabbage for tang and crunch.
Swap coriander for parsley or spring onions if preferred.
Mix in crumbled feta for a tangy twist.
Add a spoonful of Greek yoghurt to the filling for extra creaminess.
Use turkey, prawns, or tofu as alternative proteins.
Toast the bun in butter instead of cheese for richness.
Add sliced cucumber or radishes for more freshness.
Include crushed nachos for a fun crunch inside the bun.

Don’t forget to also check my Cheesy Arepa Bites

How to Store Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns

These Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns are best served freshly toasted and warm, but you can prepare parts ahead. The avocado and chicken filling can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the bun separate and only toast when ready to eat, this preserves the texture. If you’ve assembled the entire bun and have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil and refrigerate for no more than 24 hours. Reheat in a frying pan or oven, but note the avocado may darken slightly (though still safe to eat).

Conclusion

These Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns are everything you want in a quick, satisfying, and vibrant meal. They bring together classic ingredients with bold Colombian flair, offering a rich, comforting bite with every mouthful. From the creamy avocado and tender chicken to the zesty lime and crispy cheese crust, every element works together in harmony. Whether you’re preparing a quick solo lunch, feeding the family, or serving up something special for brunch, Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns rise to the occasion. Their ease, adaptability, and cultural flair make them not just a recipe but a joyful kitchen staple. Once you’ve tried these Colombian-style Chicken and Avocado Buns, you’ll come back to them again and again because delicious should always be this simple.

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