Chef Mitchell preparing Creamy Avocado Chicken Arepas
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe while traveling through Colombia, where arepas are a beloved staple. After tasting the creamy avocado sauce paired with juicy chicken, I knew I had to recreate it at home. Over the years, I’ve perfected this dish, adding my own twists without losing its authentic touch. Now, it's a favorite among my friends and family."

As a culinary expert specializing in Latin American cuisine, I have spent years exploring diverse flavors and techniques. My passion lies in creating approachable lunch recipes that bring joy to everyday meals. With over 1000 recipes created, I take pride in sharing the richness of Latin American culture through food.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Creamy Avocado Chicken Arepas served on a plate

Why This Creamy Avocado Chicken Arepas Recipe Works

This recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of avocado with the savory flavors of seasoned chicken, all encased in a perfectly cooked arepa. The balance between the soft, warm arepa and the fresh, tangy avocado sauce creates an irresistible dish. Plus, the vibrant colors make it visually appealing, ensuring it stands out on any lunch table.

Using simple techniques, each step enhances the flavors and textures, from the boiling of the chicken to the frying of the arepas. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for a focus on quality, bringing out the best in each element. The result is a dish that is not only delicious but also satisfying and nutritious.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, ensure the arepas are cooked on medium heat to achieve a nice golden crust without burning. Additionally, allow the dough to rest for a few minutes before shaping to ensure a better texture. Using fresh, ripe avocados will give the sauce a richer flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the arepas and chicken in advance. Store the cooked arepas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to make the avocado sauce fresh, as it may brown when stored. Reheat the arepas in a skillet for the best texture before serving.

If you want a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with black beans or lentils for protein. You can also use shredded jackfruit for a pulled 'chicken' style texture. Be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to match the flavor profile.

The arepas should be golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. If they are cooked through, they will have a slight bounce when pressed. The filling, especially the chicken, should be hot throughout. A thermometer can help ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Yes, you can freeze the arepas after they are cooked. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will last for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or skillet when ready to enjoy.

These arepas pair well with a fresh salad or coleslaw for a refreshing side. You can also serve them with additional lime wedges and cilantro for a burst of flavor. A side of beans or rice also complements the dish nicely.

In the fridge, the arepas will last for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. However, the avocado sauce is best consumed within a day to avoid browning. Reheat the arepas before serving to maintain their texture.

You can make the filling and arepas in advance! Store the filling in the fridge for up to 3 days and shape the arepas ahead of time. Just cook them fresh when you are ready to serve for the best taste.

The best way to reheat arepas is in a skillet over medium heat. This will help regain their crispy exterior. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

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Too Dry

Problem: If the arepas turn out too dry, it can lead to a less enjoyable texture and flavor.

Solution: To avoid dryness, ensure the dough is not overmixed and that the arepas are not overcooked. If they are dry, serve with extra avocado sauce to enhance moisture.

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Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Arepas may not achieve the desired crispiness if cooked on too low of a heat.

Solution: Ensure to cook the arepas on medium to medium-high heat. If they are not crispy, try increasing the cooking time slightly or cooking them longer in the skillet.

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Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked arepas may have a tough texture and dry flavor.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, watch them closely while frying and check for a golden color. If overcooked, serve with a generous amount of the avocado sauce to add moisture.

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Undercooked Center

Problem: Undercooked arepas can have a gummy texture in the center.

Recovery: If you find the center is undercooked, place them back in the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook a few more minutes until fully cooked through.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Burnt arepas can occur if the heat is too high or they are left unattended.

Prevention: To prevent burning, cook on medium heat and flip them regularly. If burnt, you can scrape off the charred bits and serve the arepas with sauce to mask any minor burnt taste.

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Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the arepas are too sweet, add a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors.

Too Salty: To balance out too much salt, serve with a dollop of unsalted yogurt or sour cream.

Bland: If the flavor is bland, enhance it with additional spices like cumin or chili powder.

Fresh ingredients for Creamy Avocado Chicken Arepas

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Avocado Chicken Arepas

The key ingredients for this recipe include high-quality chicken, ripe avocados, and fresh herbs. The chicken provides the main protein, while the avocados add creaminess and healthy fats. Fresh herbs like cilantro elevate the flavor profile, making each bite more vibrant and delicious.

Using fresh and high-quality ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Select avocados that are perfectly ripe, as this will enhance the creaminess of the sauce. Opt for organic chicken whenever possible to ensure a clean taste without additives.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken for the best texture in your filling. Cooking it slowly will enhance tenderness, allowing the meat to soak up flavors from the spices and seasonings.
  • Avocado: Pick avocados that yield slightly to pressure when ripe but are not overly soft. This ensures a creamy texture for the sauce without any browning or stringiness.
  • Cornmeal: Use finely ground cornmeal for a smoother dough. Look for masa harina if available, as it specifically works best for making traditional arepas.
Cooking process for Creamy Avocado Chicken Arepas

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process involves boiling the chicken, preparing the arepa dough, and frying until golden brown. Each step is straightforward and can be done in parallel to save time. By multitasking, you can have everything ready to assemble in no time.

Pay attention to the cooking time and temperature of the arepas to achieve the perfect crispiness. The combination of tender chicken and creamy filling inside a crispy arepa creates a delightful contrast that will make this dish unforgettable.

Key Technique for Perfect Creamy Avocado Chicken Arepas

The key technique is to cook the arepas on medium heat to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft. This requires monitoring the cooking process closely. Additionally, allowing the dough to rest briefly before shaping helps in developing the right texture.

Creamy Avocado Chicken Arepas

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup sour cream
    For creaminess
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
    For freshness
  • 1 lime, juiced
    For brightness
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
    For depth

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup cornmeal
    For the dough
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
    For mixing
  • 1 tsp salt
    For seasoning
  • 1 avocado
    For the sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
    For frying
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
    For crunch
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
    For freshness

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken

    In a pot, boil the chicken pieces until fully cooked, about 20-25 minutes. Remove from water and shred.

  2. Make Arepa Dough

    In a bowl, combine cornmeal, warm water, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Let it sit for 5 minutes.

  3. Shape Arepas

    Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and shape each piece into a patty about 1/2 inch thick.

  4. Cook Arepas

    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the arepas for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

  5. Prepare Avocado Sauce

    In a small bowl, mix the mashed avocado, sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, and cumin.

  6. Combine Chicken and Vegetables

    In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken with diced tomatoes and red onion. Season with salt and pepper.

  7. Assemble Arepas

    Slice each cooked arepa in half and fill with the chicken mixture. Drizzle with the avocado sauce.

  8. Serve

    Serve warm with additional lime wedges and cilantro for garnish.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Creamy Avocado Chicken Arepas, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for the best texture. If possible, keep the avocado sauce separate until serving to maintain its freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Avocado Chicken Arepas with a side of fresh salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. You can also pair them with beans or rice for a complete meal. Don’t forget lime wedges for an extra tangy kick!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as grilled vegetables or cheese. You can also make these arepas spicy by adding jalapeños or a hot sauce to the avocado mixture. For a twist, try using different types of cheese in the filling for added flavor.