Dinner

Homemade Arepa with Reina Pepiada Recipe

Name: Homemade Arepa with Reina Pepiada Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Venezuelan
Ingredients: 2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal (P.A.N. brand or similar); 2½ cups warm water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus extra for cooking); 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded); 1 ripe avocado (peeled and pitted); ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 small onion (finely chopped); ¼ cup cilantro (finely chopped); 1 jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped, optional); Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste

ByHarper Ellington November 23, 2025November 23, 2025

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Introduction

Homemade Arepas with Reina Pepiada offer a delicious taste of Venezuelan cuisine, combining crispy cornmeal cakes with a creamy chicken and avocado filling. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, this recipe is both flavorful and easy to make at home.

The image shows several arepas on a dark wooden surface with a white marbled texture background visible at the edge. Each arepa is golden brown and slightly charred on the outside. Three arepas are filled with a creamy, light green mixture that looks shredded and textured, spilling out between the two halves of the arepas. A small green cilantro leaf tops each plain arepa. Bright green lime wedges and a bunch of fresh cilantro leaves are placed near the arepas, adding color contrast. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal (P.A.N. brand or similar)
2½ cups warm water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus extra for cooking)
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
1 ripe avocado (peeled and pitted)
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 small onion (finely chopped)
¼ cup cilantro (finely chopped)
1 jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped, optional)
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, salt, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until the dough is smooth and homogeneous. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Divide the dough into six equal portions. Shape each into a ball, then flatten into a disc about 4-5 inches wide and ½-inch thick.
Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brush with oil. Cook each arepa for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, finish by baking in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, chopped onion, cilantro, and jalapeño if using. In another bowl, mash avocado with mayonnaise and lime juice until smooth.
Step 5: Combine the avocado mixture with the chicken mixture, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Slice each arepa to create a pocket and fill generously with the Reina Pepiada mixture.
Step 7: Serve the arepas immediately or keep them covered to stay warm until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier filling, keep the jalapeño seeds or add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
Try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter filling.
If you can’t find pre-cooked cornmeal, look for arepa flour specifically labeled for arepas—it ensures the right texture.
To make arepas gluten-free, confirm your cornmeal brand contains no gluten additives.

Storage

Store cooked arepas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the Reina Pepiada filling separate in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Reheat arepas in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness. Assemble and serve immediately after reheating to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Two arepas on a round metal tray, each made of two thick, slightly browned, and toasted cornmeal cakes with a rough surface. Between the cakes is a generous layer of creamy green shredded chicken salad mixed with herbs and bits of white cheese, which spills out slightly from the edges. A small bright green lime wedge and fresh cilantro leaves rest on the tray beside the arepas. The tray is set on a white marbled textured surface, with a wooden board holding more arepas and lime wedges visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze arepas?

Yes, you can freeze cooked arepas by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or skillet before filling and serving.