Name: Peruvian Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked shredded chicken; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 2 oz. crumbled cojita cheese; 2 tbsp ají amarillo paste; ½ lime, juiced; 2 tbsp chopped cilantro; 1 garlic clove, minced; 2 tbsp minced red onion; ¼ tsp salt (or more to taste)

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Introduction

This Peruvian Chicken Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken with a zesty ají amarillo paste and creamy mayonnaise. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a tasty side for your meals.

A close-up of a shredded chicken salad in a white bowl with a gray speckled pattern, placed on a white marbled surface. The salad has four visible layers: the bottom layer is bright yellow corn kernels with some small red bits, the second layer is finely shredded light orange chicken mixed with green peas scattered throughout. The third layer consists of fresh green cilantro leaves spread on top, and the final layer is small white crumbles of cheese sprinkled over everything. The mix shows a fresh and colorful texture with soft, crunchy, and leafy elements. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup cooked shredded chicken
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 oz. crumbled cojita cheese
2 tbsp ají amarillo paste
½ lime, juiced
2 tbsp chopped cilantro
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tbsp minced red onion
¼ tsp salt (or more to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients in one place for easy access.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, cojita cheese, ají amarillo paste, lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, minced red onion, and salt.
Step 3: Stir gently until all ingredients are mixed evenly.
Step 4: Serve immediately chilled or at room temperature as desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Adjust the amount of ají amarillo paste to control the heat level.
Swap cojita cheese with feta if it’s unavailable for a similar salty kick.
Serve on a bed of fresh lettuce or with toasted bread for added texture.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving, and it can be enjoyed chilled or brought to room temperature. Avoid freezing to maintain the texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A clear glass bowl sits at the center filled with chopped light pink chicken pieces, placed on a wooden cutting board. Around the bowl, four small white bowls hold finely chopped purple and white onions, chopped green herbs, crumbly white cheese, and a dollop of light yellow mayonnaise. A halved lime with a bright green rind and pale green interior rests next to the bowls. To the left, there is a jar of yellow pepper paste with a red and yellow label, alongside a bright floral cloth with green leaves and red, yellow, and purple flowers. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred it finely before mixing.

What can I substitute for ají amarillo paste?

If ají amarillo paste is unavailable, you can use a mild yellow chili paste or a mix of yellow bell pepper with a pinch of cayenne to mimic the flavor and color.