Reina Pepiada Recipe

Reina Pepiada is a Venezuelan classic—a rich, creamy, and flavorful chicken and avocado filling nestled inside a crispy, golden arepa. This dish is the perfect balance of textures and flavors, combining tender shredded chicken with smooth avocado and a hint of citrus. Whether you’re new to arepas or a longtime fan, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Venezuelan Favorite: A beloved and traditional dish packed with authentic flavors.
• Creamy and Savory: The combination of chicken and avocado creates a deliciously rich and creamy filling.
• Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings or toppings to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—it’s always satisfying!

Ingredients

To make this Reina Pepiada, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• Arepa Dough (Harina PAN): The base of the arepa, giving it that perfect crispy exterior and soft interior.
• Shredded Chicken: The heart of the filling, adding protein and a delicious savory taste.
• Avocado: Brings creaminess and a mild, buttery flavor to the filling.
• Mayonnaise: Enhances the texture and richness of the mixture.
• Lime or Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy touch to balance the flavors.
• Red Onion: Provides a slight crunch and a sharp contrast to the creaminess.
• Cilantro: Optional, but adds a fresh and herby touch.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

Note: Full ingredient measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Make Reina Pepiada

Step 1: Prepare the Arepas

1. In a bowl, mix the arepa dough with water and a pinch of salt until it forms a smooth, pliable dough.
2. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape into round, thick patties.
3. Cook the arepas on a hot griddle or skillet until golden brown on both sides.
4. Once cooked, slice the arepas open to create a pocket for the filling.

Step 2: Make the Reina Pepiada Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, mashed avocado, mayonnaise, and lime or lemon juice.
2. Stir in finely chopped red onion and cilantro, if using.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix until creamy and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

1. Spoon generous portions of the creamy filling into the freshly made arepas.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Ripe Avocados: This ensures a smooth and creamy filling.
• Don’t Overfill the Arepas: While tempting, too much filling can make them difficult to eat.
• Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a kick.
• Grill the Arepas Again: After filling, a quick grill can add extra crispiness.

How to Serve

• Traditional Style: Serve warm with a side of fresh salad or plantain chips.
• With Extra Toppings: Try adding cheese, tomatoes, or even a drizzle of spicy sauce.
• As a Party Snack: Mini arepas filled with Reina Pepiada make for a great appetizer!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

• Keep leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Store cooked arepas separately at room temperature for a day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• The chicken mixture does not freeze well due to the avocado, but you can freeze the cooked arepas for up to a month.
• Reheat frozen arepas in the oven or on a griddle before filling.

Reheating

• Warm the arepas on a skillet or in an oven at 350°F until crispy.
• If needed, let the filling come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

What does Reina Pepiada mean?

Reina Pepiada translates to “Curvy Queen” in Spanish and was named after a Venezuelan beauty queen. It’s one of the most popular arepa fillings in Venezuela!

Can I make this without mayonnaise?

Yes! You can substitute with Greek yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil for a lighter version.

What other proteins can I use?

You can swap the chicken for canned tuna, shredded turkey, or even mashed chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

How do I make sure my arepas are crispy?

Cook them on medium heat and let them develop a golden crust before flipping. A quick finish in the oven can also help crisp them up!

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