Chicken Avocado Arepas: A Delicious Venezuelan Delight

These Chicken Avocado Arepas are a flavorful and satisfying meal featuring crispy, golden arepas filled with creamy, zesty shredded chicken and avocado. Arepas, a traditional dish from Venezuela and Colombia, are made from pre-cooked cornmeal (like Harina PAN) and can be stuffed with a variety of fillings. This recipe combines the tender texture of arepas with a fresh, vibrant chicken avocado salad for a meal that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a casual gathering, these arepas are simple to make and packed with bold flavors. Pair them with a side of black beans, tangy coleslaw, or your favorite salsa for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Authentic and Flavorful: Brings a taste of Venezuelan cuisine to your table.
2. Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
3. Customizable: You can switch up the fillings to suit your preferences.
4. Perfect Texture: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, with a creamy, zesty filling.
5. Great for Any Occasion: Versatile enough for a quick lunch or a festive dinner.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Arepas:

• 2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal (Harina PAN recommended): The key ingredient for traditional arepas. Pre-cooked cornmeal gives them their distinct texture.
• 2 1/2 cups warm water: Hydrates the cornmeal and helps form the dough.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor of the arepas.
• Olive oil for cooking: Ensures the arepas get golden and crispy on the outside.

For the Chicken Avocado Filling:

• 1 lb cooked, shredded chicken: Provides a hearty and protein-packed filling. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
• 1 avocado, diced: Adds creaminess and a fresh flavor to the filling.
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Brings a bright, herby freshness.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Binds the filling and adds richness.
• 1 tbsp lime juice: Adds a tangy, zesty kick that complements the avocado and chicken.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Make the Arepa Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of pre-cooked cornmeal, 2 1/2 cups of warm water, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
2. Mix the ingredients with your hands or a wooden spoon until a smooth, pliable dough forms. The dough should not be sticky but should hold its shape.
3. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to fully hydrate.

Step 2: Shape the Arepas

1. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a disc about 1/2 inch thick.
2. Ensure the discs are smooth and uniform to promote even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Arepas

1. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Place the arepas in the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
3. Transfer the cooked arepas to a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm.

Step 4: Prepare the Chicken Avocado Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of cooked, shredded chicken, 1 diced avocado, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, and 1 tablespoon lime juice.
2. Stir gently until the ingredients are well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Arepas

1. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each arepa open to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
2. Stuff each arepa generously with the chicken avocado filling.
3. Serve immediately while the arepas are warm and crisp.

Chef Tips for Success

1. Hydrate the Dough Properly: Let the dough rest for 5 minutes after mixing to ensure the cornmeal fully absorbs the water. If the dough feels too dry, add a splash of water; if too wet, sprinkle in a bit more cornmeal.
2. Cook Over Medium Heat: Cooking the arepas over medium heat allows them to develop a golden crust while ensuring they cook through completely.
3. Use Pre-Cooked Cornmeal: Only pre-cooked white cornmeal (Harina PAN) will give you the authentic texture of arepas. Regular cornmeal will not work for this recipe.
4. Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing the arepas to prevent them from breaking apart.
5. Make Ahead: The chicken avocado filling can be prepared a few hours in advance and refrigerated until ready to use.

Customizations and Variations

Arepas are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:

Filling Variations:

• Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled vegetables.
• Cheesy: Add shredded mozzarella or queso fresco to the filling for a gooey twist.
• Spicy: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
• Breakfast: Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese for a hearty breakfast version.

Add More Flavor to the Dough:

• Mix grated cheese or a pinch of cumin into the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
• Use chicken broth instead of water to hydrate the dough for a savory touch.

What to Serve with Chicken Avocado Arepas

These arepas are satisfying on their own but pair beautifully with side dishes for a complete meal. Here are some suggestions:

• Black Beans: A classic side that complements the creamy avocado and zesty chicken.
• Tangy Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy contrast to the warm arepas.
• Plantains: Fried or baked sweet plantains add a touch of sweetness to the meal.
• Salsa or Hot Sauce: Serve with your favorite salsa or hot sauce for dipping.
• Rice and Beans: A hearty and traditional pairing that rounds out the dish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s an estimate for one chicken avocado arepa (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the arepas ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the arepas and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven before serving.

2. Can I freeze arepas?

Absolutely! Cook the arepas, let them cool completely, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or oven.

3. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for this recipe and works perfectly for the filling.

4. What can I substitute for Harina PAN?

Harina PAN is the best option for authentic arepas, but other brands of pre-cooked white cornmeal (such as Masarepa) can be used as well. Avoid regular cornmeal.

5. How can I make these arepas dairy-free?

Replace the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative or mashed avocado for a creamy, dairy-free filling.

Conclusion

These Chicken Avocado Arepas are a perfect blend of crispy arepas and creamy, zesty filling. Whether you’re new to making arepas or already a fan of this traditional dish, this recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Pair them with classic sides, enjoy them as a snack or main course, and savor the comforting, vibrant taste of this Venezuelan favorite. Happy cooking! 🥑🌽✨

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