Ever had one of those days where you crave something comforting but still packed with flavor? That’s when I whip up chicken pupusas recipe—a traditional Salvadoran dish that’s like a warm hug!

My love for pupusas started during a trip to a Salvadoran food festival, where I had my first bite of these delicious stuffed corn tortillas. I was hooked! The combination of chicken, cheese, and chorizo inside that golden masa pocket was unforgettable.

If you’re new to making pupusas, don’t worry! They’re much easier than they seem. I’ve made this recipe approachable for home cooks—no special equipment needed. Let’s dive into how you can make my easy Chicken Pupusas Recipe right at home.

Chicken Pupusas Recipe

This Chicken Pupusas Recipe is a simple, yet authentic way to bring the bold flavors of Salvadoran cuisine to your kitchen. Tender shredded chicken mixed with gooey cheese and savory chorizo is tucked inside soft, pillowy masa dough.

Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner or a small gathering, these pupusas are sure to impress.

Recipe Overview:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Salvadoran, Mexican
Course: Main Course
Difficulty Level: Easy
Yield: 8-10 pupusas
Calories Per Serving: 250-300 kcal

Ingredients:

For The Dough:

2 cups masa harina
1 ½ cups warm tap water
½ tsp Kosher salt

For The Filling:

1 cup shredded roasted chicken
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup crumbled queso fresco
¼ cup chorizo, cooked and crumbled
¼ tsp Cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)

For Cooking:

2 tbsp vegetable oil

For Serving:

Sour cream
Pickled jalapeños
Chopped onion
Guacamole
Hot sauce

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare The Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina, warm tap water, and salt.
Mix with your hands until the dough forms a soft, pliable texture. If it feels too dry, add a bit more water. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more masa harina.
Let the dough rest for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make The Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, queso fresco, chorizo, and Cayenne pepper.
Mix well to evenly distribute all the ingredients.

Step 3: Assemble The Pupusas

Divide the masa dough into 8-10 equal balls.
Flatten each ball into a thick disc (about ¼ inch thick) using your hands. If the dough sticks, wet your hands slightly.
Add about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each disc.
Carefully fold the dough over the filling and reshape it into a ball. Then gently flatten it back into a disc. Be sure the filling stays inside, but don’t stress if some cheese oozes out—it’s delicious!

Step 4: Cook The Pupusas

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Place the pupusas in the skillet, cooking 3-4 at a time depending on your pan size.
Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden and slightly crispy. The cheese may melt out a bit, and that’s perfectly fine—it forms an irresistible crust!

Step 5: Serve And Enjoy!

Serve your chicken pupusas hot with sour cream, pickled jalapeños, chopped onions, guacamole, and a dash of hot sauce.

The combination of creamy, tangy, and spicy toppings brings out the rich flavors of the pupusas.

Tips And Variations

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready, assemble and cook the pupusas fresh.
Filling Variations: Try adding black beans, or swap out the chicken for pulled pork or just go classic with a bean and cheese pupusa.
Storage: Leftover pupusas can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a hot skillet to bring back that crispy exterior.

Serving Suggestions

For a full Salvadoran experience, serve your chicken pupusas with a side of curtido (a tangy cabbage slaw) and a drizzle of pupusa sauce, which is a mild tomato-based sauce often served with pupusas.

If you don’t have curtido, a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables also make a great pairing.

Is A Pupusa A Dumpling?

Although pupusas share some similarities with dumplings because they are stuffed and cooked, they are actually more like a thick, stuffed tortilla. Originating from El Salvador, pupusas are their own unique creation!

Are Chicken Pupusas Healthy?

Pupusas can be a balanced meal when filled with lean protein like chicken and paired with wholesome toppings like guacamole and curtido.

They offer a good balance of protein, fats, and carbs, making them a satisfying and nutritious choice.

What Are Pupusas Made Of?

Pupusas are made from masa harina, a special type of corn flour used in many Latin American dishes. The dough is then stuffed with various fillings like chicken, cheese, or beans, and cooked to golden perfection.

Are Chicken Pupusas A Thing?

Absolutely! Chicken pupusas are a delicious variation of traditional Salvadoran pupusas. The tender, juicy chicken pairs perfectly with melted cheese, making them a favorite for many!

What Is Pupusa Sauce Made Of?

Pupusa sauce is typically a mild, tangy tomato-based sauce with hints of onion, garlic, and sometimes peppers. It’s served alongside pupusas to add an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Now that you know how easy it is to make chicken pupusas, it’s time to give it a try! Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a fun dish to impress your friends, these pupusas are sure to be a hit.

If you try the recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your experience with me in the comments below! Happy cooking!

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Naznin Aktar

Recipe Developer at Naznin's Kitchen

Hello! I'm Naznin Aktar, the food enthusiast and recipe curator at Naznin's Kitchen. Want to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes? Explore Naznin's Kitchen for a collection of recipes that are sure to inspire your inner chef and delight your loved ones.