Soft on the inside and crisp on the outside, these Arepas Chicken buns are filled with creamy avocado chicken salad — a beloved Venezuelan classic known as “Reina Pepiada.”
It’s hearty, flavorful, and naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for lunch, brunch, or an easy make-ahead snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
The arepas are golden, tender, and slightly crisp.
The chicken-avocado filling is creamy, tangy, and refreshing.
Perfect for meal prep — you can make both parts in advance.
It’s gluten-free and customizable with your favorite fillings.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
White cornmeal – Use precooked cornmeal such as P.A.N. for authentic arepas.
Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats to the filling.
Shredded chicken – A great way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie meat.
Mayonnaise – Creates a silky, rich texture.
Lime juice – Adds brightness and balances the creaminess.
Salt and pepper – Enhance all the flavors beautifully.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use warm water when mixing the dough for smoother texture.
Let the dough rest for 5–10 minutes before shaping.
Don’t press the arepas too thin — they should be about ½ inch thick.
Cook on a dry or lightly oiled pan for even browning.
Taste the filling and adjust lime or salt to your liking.
How to Make Arepas Chicken (Reina Pepiada)
Step 1 – Prepare the Arepa Dough
In a large bowl, combine precooked cornmeal, warm water, and salt.
Knead by hand until smooth and soft. Let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 2 – Shape and Cook
Divide dough into 8 equal pieces and form into disks about ½ inch thick.
Heat a nonstick skillet with a little vegetable oil and cook arepas for 5 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Cool slightly on a rack.
Step 3 – Make the Filling
In a bowl, mash avocado until smooth.
Add mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper; mix until creamy.
Fold in shredded chicken until well coated.
Step 4 – Assemble
Slice the arepas horizontally like a sandwich bun.
Spoon generous filling onto the bottom half and top with the other half. Serve immediately.
What to Serve It With
Serve with fresh lime wedges or a light side salad.
Pair with fried plantains or cassava fries for a complete Venezuelan meal.
Enjoy with coffee, juice, or iced tea for breakfast or brunch.
Variations / Substitutions
Add chopped cilantro or red onion to the filling for extra flavor.
Replace chicken with tuna or turkey for a twist.
Mix in a bit of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Use vegan mayo and jackfruit for a plant-based version.
Top with tomato slices or lettuce for extra freshness.
Storage & Leftovers
Store cooked arepas and filling separately.
Arepas last up to 3 days refrigerated and can be reheated in a toaster or skillet.
The filling keeps for 1–2 days in the fridge — press plastic wrap directly on its surface to prevent browning.
Assemble just before serving for best texture.
FAQs
Can I make arepas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the arepa dough in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cook them just before serving for the best texture.
Can I bake arepas instead of frying them?
Absolutely. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
Can I use yellow cornmeal instead of white?
Only if it’s precooked. Traditional Venezuelan arepas use white cornmeal (like P.A.N.) for their signature texture.
Can I make the filling with another protein?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with tuna, turkey, or even cooked shrimp for variety.
How can I keep the avocado from turning brown?
Add a bit of extra lime juice and cover the surface of the filling tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, add finely chopped jalapeño, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
What’s the best way to reheat arepas?
Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven until warm and crisp — avoid microwaving as it makes them chewy.
Can I freeze cooked arepas?
Definitely. Let them cool completely, then wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or oven.
Why is my arepa dough cracking?
It’s likely too dry — add small amounts of warm water and knead again until smooth and pliable.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free or vegan mayonnaise alternative, and the recipe will still be creamy and delicious.
Final Thoughts
These Arepas Chicken are the perfect mix of comfort and freshness — crispy golden arepas with creamy avocado chicken filling that melts in your mouth.
They’re easy to make, wholesome, and sure to become a new favorite for any meal of the day.
