Chicken Arepas

Name: Chicken Arepas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Venezuelan
Ingredients: 2 cups pre-cooked cornmeal (such as P.A.N.); 2 1/2 cups warm water; 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 500 grams chicken breast (cooked and shredded); 1 cup chicken stock; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; to taste salt and pepper

50 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

Chicken Arepas

Delicious and versatile chicken-stuffed arepas, perfect for any meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

30 min

Total

50 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Arepas are a staple in Venezuelan and Colombian cuisine, known for their versatility and delicious flavour. These cornmeal cakes are naturally gluten-free and can be filled with a variety of ingredients. In this recipe, we focus on a savoury version, stuffing the arepas with a flavourful chicken filling. This dish makes for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a delicious dinner option.

Ingredients

Servings

Arepas

Chicken Filling

Instructions

Prepare the arepa dough

In a large bowl, combine the pre-cooked cornmeal, warm water, and salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms.

Pro tip: Ensure there are no lumps in the dough for an even texture.

Shape the arepas

Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball into a disc about 1 cm thick.

Pro tip: Use a little water on your hands to prevent sticking.

Cook the arepas

Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it. Cook the arepas for about 5–7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Pro tip: Press lightly on the arepas to check for firmness.

Prepare the chicken filling

In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the shredded chicken, chicken stock, cumin, and paprika. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.

Pro tip: Let the filling cool slightly before stuffing the arepas.

Assemble the arepas

Slice each arepa halfway through and stuff with the chicken filling.

Pro tip: Be gentle to avoid breaking the arepas.

Serve

Serve immediately, optionally with avocado or salsa on the side.

💡

Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use pre-cooked cornmeal for the best texture.</li><li>Flatten the dough evenly for even cooking.</li><li>Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.</li><li>Adjust the seasoning of the chicken filling to your taste.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken arepas hot, with a side of avocado slices or a fresh salad for a full meal. They pair well with salsa or a simple tomato sauce. For a twist, you can prepare the chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days, reheating it gently before stuffing the arepas. The cooked arepas can also be stored in the refrigerator for a day and reheated in a skillet or oven before serving. This makes them a convenient option for quick meals throughout the week.