These Reina Pepiada arepas are filled with creamy avocado chicken salad. A classic Venezuelan recipe that is flavorful, easy to make, and naturally gluten-free.
Reina Pepiada Arepas
Reina Pepiada is one of the most iconic Venezuelan arepa fillings. It is made with a creamy avocado chicken salad that is rich, fresh, and full of flavor.
The combination of tender shredded chicken, ripe avocado, lime, and herbs creates a filling that is both creamy and refreshing at the same time.
Served inside warm, crispy arepas, this dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even entertaining.
What Is Reina Pepiada?
Reina Pepiada is a traditional Venezuelan dish made with arepas stuffed with avocado chicken salad. The name means “curvy queen” and was inspired by a Venezuelan beauty queen.
If you want to learn more about arepas, they are cornmeal cakes that are cooked on a skillet and can be filled with endless combinations.
Why You’ll Love These Arepas
- Creamy and flavorful filling
- Naturally gluten-free
- Perfect for meal prep or entertaining
- Easy to customize with toppings
- A true Venezuelan classic
Arepas are one of the easiest breads you can make at home. They are prepared with precooked cornmeal, water, and salt, then cooked in a skillet until golden on the outside and soft inside.
My daughter loves them filled with cheese for breakfast, but this avocado chicken salad version is always one of the most requested in our house.
How To Serve Reina Pepiada
You can serve these arepas freshly made and warm, filled generously with the avocado chicken salad.
- Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner
- Offer toppings for a DIY arepa bar
- Pair with a simple salad or plantains
- Enjoy the filling on its own or in sandwiches
They are especially great for brunches, casual dinners, or gatherings where everyone can stuff their own arepas. It is interactive, fun, and much less messy than tacos.
Why This Filling Works So Well
Chicken and avocado are an amazing combination, especially when paired with acidity from lime and extra texture from herbs or nuts. The result is creamy, bright, and satisfying.
You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken, which makes this recipe even easier for busy days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Reina Pepiada mean?
It means “curvy queen” and refers to a Venezuelan beauty queen.
Are arepas gluten-free?
Yes, arepas are made with cornmeal and are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, the avocado chicken salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
I hope you give these delicious Reina Pepiada arepas a try. If you make them, tag me on Instagram @LivingSweetMoments.
Reina Pepiada Arepas (Venezuelan Avocado Chicken Salad)
Ingredients
For Arepas
- 2 Cups P.A.N Cornmeal
- 2 1/2 Cups Water warm
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
For Avocado Chicken Salad
- 1 Ripe Avocado
- 2-3 Cups cooked chicken shredded or chopped
- 1/4 Cup Cilantro chopped
- 2 Tablespoons Mayo
- Juice of 1 Lemon
- 1/2 Teaspoon onion powder
- 1 Teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 Cup slivered almonds toasted
- Salt + Pepper to taste
Instructions
For Arepas
- In a bowl, combine warm water and salt. Slowly add the cornmeal and mix with your hands until a soft dough forms
- Let the dough rest for 5 minutes
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it
- Divide dough into 6–8 portions, roll into balls, and flatten into discs
- Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through
- Remove from heat and keep warm
- If making multiple batches, keep cooked arepas in a warm oven
For Avocado Chicken Salad
- In a bowl, mash the avocado with a fork
- Add mayonnaise, lemon juice, cilantro, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well
- Fold in the shredded chicken until fully combined
- Stir in the toasted almonds
Assembly
- Slice arepas halfway open
- Stuff generously with the avocado chicken salad
- Serve and enjoy
Notes
• Dough should be soft but not sticky
• Do not make arepas too thin or they will dry out
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option
• Add extra lime juice to prevent the avocado from browning
• Serve immediately for the best texture
Nutrition
Other arepa recipes to try:
Gluten Free Crispy Plantain Arepas
Cute Mini Arepas With Cheese
Venezuelan Rice Arepas
Oh wow!! I don’t know what sounds better!! the chicken salad or the arepas!! Yum Yum!! I will have to try this to change up our lunch routine!!
I’m not an avocado lover but might want to try it since it’s healthy.
Hey Jen if you want just omit the avocados!
I have never heard of arepas before. But it sounds yummy.
They truly are CR!
These look amazing. I’ve never made arepas before and I originally thought it would be difficult but you really explained it in a simple way. Now I’ve got to try it!
Awesome Patricia! let me know how it comes out!
I am such an avocado lover! I’m finding such great things from the blog sites! I’m going to make these this weekend !
awesome Andrea!! let me know how they come out!
Is there a substitute for mayo? I cannot eat it
Yes! greek yogurt