Aji de Gallina
Aji de Gallina is a traditional Peruvian dish featuring shredded chicken in a rich, creamy sauce made with aji amarillo peppers, cheese, and bread-soaked milk. Served over rice or potatoes, this dish is comforting, flavorful, and full of warmth.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Peruvian
Large pot For boiling the chicken
Blender For making the smooth, creamy sauce
Wooden Spoon For stirring the sauce
2 large chicken breasts boneless and skinless 1 cup milk for soaking the bread 2 slices white bread crusts removed 1 small onion diced 3 cloves garlic minced 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste adjust for spice preference ½ cup chicken broth for thinning the sauce ⅓ cup walnuts blended for added richness ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for sautéing ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground 4 pieces boiled potatoes for serving 4 cups white rice cooked 2 large hard-boiled eggs sliced for garnish 8 pieces black olives for garnish
Boil the chicken in water until fully cooked, about 15 minutes. Remove from the pot, let cool, then shred into thin strips.
Soak the bread in milk until soft, then blend until smooth to create a creamy base.
Heat oil in a large pan. Sauté onions and garlic until softened, then stir in aji amarillo paste.
Add the blended bread mixture, chicken broth, walnuts, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and thickened.
Stir in the shredded chicken and let simmer for a few minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Serve warm over white rice or boiled potatoes. Garnish with sliced hard-boiled eggs and black olives.
For a thinner sauce, add more broth while simmering.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Keyword aji de gallina, creamy chicken dish, Peruvian chicken stew