The Venezuelan Reina Pepiada Chicken Burger is a dish steeped in cultural significance and culinary charm, offering a fusion of rich textures and fresh, savory flavors that pay tribute to Venezuelan traditions. At its core, the recipe draws inspiration from the “Reina Pepiada Arepa”, a cherished variation of the classic arepa, which represents one of Venezuela’s most iconic comfort foods. Translating to “Curvaceous Queen,” Reina Pepiada is a name that carries an intriguing backstory, one that blends the worlds of cuisine, politics, and beauty.
The name “Reina Pepiada” is believed to have been coined in 1955 to honor Susana Duijm, the first Venezuelan woman to win the Miss World title. Following her victory, a local vendor created a special arepa stuffed with a luscious combination of shredded chicken, creamy avocado, mayonnaise, and lime juice in her honor. The dish became an instant classic, reflecting the pride of a nation celebrating a momentous achievement. In Venezuelan slang, “pepiada” loosely translates to “curvy” or “voluptuous,” describing both the creamy, indulgent filling and the beauty of the country’s pageant queens.
This burger adaptation of the classic Reina Pepiada keeps its spirit intact while presenting it in a modern, street-food-friendly form. By using freshly made “arepa buns” instead of traditional burger buns, it grounds the dish firmly in Venezuelan culinary tradition. Arepas, thin round cakes made from precooked white cornmeal, are staples in virtually every Venezuelan household. Here, they are cooked to golden perfection, offering a crispy exterior and tender, corn-scented interior, forming the foundation of the burger.
Center stage in this recipe is the Reina Pepiada filling itself. A creamy blend of mashed avocado, tangy mayonnaise, freshly squeezed lime juice, and shredded chicken creates a harmony of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. The combination mirrors many aspects of Venezuelan cuisine, emphasizing simple, high-quality ingredients that let natural flavors shine. The avocado offers a buttery richness that pairs beautifully with the lightness of the chicken, while the lime adds a touch of citrus brightness to cut through the creaminess. For those who prefer a little heat, finely chopped jalapeños can be added for a spicy kick.
The versatility of this recipe makes it perfect for a range of occasions, from casual weekday dinners to gatherings with friends and family. It’s also remarkably adaptable, as rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted meat can be used to save time, while the arepas can be shaped using a tortilla press for a consistent finish.
This burger isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of Venezuela’s vibrant culture, rich culinary heritage, and the stories that bring its traditions to life. Whether you’re a fan of Latin American flavors or a curious cook looking for something new, the Reina Pepiada Chicken Burger is a dish that transports you straight to the heart of Venezuela with every bite.
Venezuelan Reina Pepiada Chicken Burger
Ingredients
Arepa Buns
- 2 cups white cornmeal precooked, such as P.A.N.
- 2 cups warm water around 40°C / 104°F
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Reina Pepiada Filling
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 large avocado ripe
- ¼ cup mayonnaise preferably homemade
- 1 tablespoon lime juice freshly squeezed
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper freshly ground
- 1 pinch salt to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Arepa Buns
- In a large bowl, mix the precooked white cornmeal, warm water, and salt. Knead the dough with your hands until smooth, about 5 minutes. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each into a disk about 1/2 inch thick.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Cook the arepas for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the exterior is crispy. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Make the Reina Pepiada Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, mash the avocado until creamy, then mix in the mayonnaise, lime juice, black pepper, and salt. Combine thoroughly.
- Add the shredded chicken to the avocado mixture and gently fold to combine, ensuring the chicken is well coated in the creamy mixture.
Assemble the Burger
- Slice the cooked arepas horizontally like a burger bun. Spoon a generous amount of the Reina Pepiada filling onto the bottom half, then cover with the top half.