Peruvian Chicken Salad
This Peruvian Chicken Salad is a vibrant and zesty twist on a classic, featuring a creamy cilantro-lime dressing with a kick of ají amarillo. Loaded with shredded chicken, crunchy red onion, sweet corn, and creamy avocado, it comes together in under 30 minutes for an effortless yet elegant party hit.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- citrus juicer
- Small bowl for dressing
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken rotisserie chicken recommended
- ½ cup mayonnaise full-fat
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ cup frozen or fresh corn kernels, cooked
- 1-2 tablespoons ají amarillo paste
- Juice of 1 lime about 2 tablespoons
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped black olives
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), ají amarillo paste, lime juice, and ground cumin. Season generously with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add the shredded chicken, chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, and cooked corn to the bowl with the dressing. Fold gently with a spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado and optional black olives.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if desired. Serve immediately on toasted bread, in lettuce wraps, or as a dip with tortilla chips.
Notes
For the best flavor, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before adding the avocado. If you can't find ají amarillo paste, substitute with 1 tablespoon of sriracha mixed with 1/2 teaspoon turmeric. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days (note that avocado may discolor). For a dairy-free version, replace sour cream with extra mayonnaise or a vegan alternative.