Peruvian Crispy Chicken Salad
Prep
15 mins
Cook
30 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This Peruvian crispy chicken salad is one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it comes together in just 45 minutes start to finish. The aji amarillo paste gives it an authentic Peruvian kick that makes everyone ask for the recipe, and honestly, it's so simple to make. I love that quinoa is packed with complete protein, so this salad keeps you satisfied for hours. The best part? You probably have most of these ingredients already, and the ones you need won't break the bank. Fresh, vibrant, and seriously delicious, this is comfort food that actually feels good to eat.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 500 gboneless chicken breasts(cut into bite sized pieces)
- 200 gcooked quinoa
- 150 gred cabbage(thinly sliced)
- 250 gcherry tomatoes(halved)
- 30 gfresh cilantro(roughly chopped)
- 60 mllime juice
- 2 tablespoonsaji amarillo paste
- 4 tablespoonsolive oil
- salt and black pepper(to taste)
- 2garlic cloves(minced)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Tip: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels first so it crisps up nicely in the pan.
- 2
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan. If needed, work in two batches to get that perfect crust.
- 3
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lime juice, aji amarillo paste, and minced garlic to create the dressing.
Tip: The aji amarillo gives the dressing that authentic Peruvian yellow color and slightly spicy flavor.
- 4
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sliced red cabbage, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.
Tip: Mix the salad base gently so the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- 5
Add the hot crispy chicken to the salad bowl and pour the dressing over everything.
Tip: The warm chicken helps the dressing flavors meld beautifully with the fresh ingredients.
- 6
Toss everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
Tip: Let the salad rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow all the flavors to come together.
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