Chicken Pupusas

This traditional Salvadoran recipe features soft, handmade corn tortillas stuffed with a savory filling of seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and refried beans. The chicken pupusas are then cooked to golden perfection on a griddle, creating a crispy exterior that encases the tender, flavorful filling inside.

Chicken Pupusas Ingredients 

For the Dough:

• Masa harina (corn flour)
• Warm water
• Salt

For the Filling:

• Cooked chicken, shredded
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Refried beans
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper

For the Curtido (Cabbage Slaw):

• Finely shredded cabbage
• Finely sliced onion
• Grated carrot
• Apple cider vinegar
• Water
• Dried oregano
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper

How To Make Chicken Pupusas 

Make the Dough

In a bowl, mix together the masa harina and salt. Slowly pour in warm water, kneading the mixture until a smooth, flexible dough forms. Separate the dough into 8 equal parts and roll each into a ball.

Prepare the Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella, refried beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. This blend creates the tasty filling for the pupusas.

Put Together the Pupusas

Flatten a dough ball into a disc roughly 4-5 inches wide.

Add a spoonful of the chicken filling to the center. Wrap the dough around the filling, sealing it thoroughly, then carefully press it into a thick tortilla shape.

Prepare the Pupusas

Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the pupusas for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown.

Make the Curtido

As the pupusas cook, make the curtido by combining shredded cabbage, sliced onion, grated carrot, apple cider vinegar, water, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let the mixture marinate for a few minutes.

Plate and Savor

Serve the warm chicken pupusas alongside a side of curtido. The tangy, crisp curtido pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the pupusas.

Ingredient Substitutes

Masa Harina: No direct substitutes, but it can sometimes be found online or in Latin markets.

Chicken: Swap with pork, ground beef, or a plant-based protein like jackfruit for a vegetarian version.

Mozzarella Cheese: Use queso fresco, panela, or a Mexican cheese blend for authentic flavor.

Refried Beans: Use black beans, pinto beans, or mashed lentils as a substitute.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Replace with rice vinegar or lemon juice for similar acidity.

Recipe Variations

Cheese Pupusas: Skip the chicken and make the filling with just cheese for a classic version.

Vegan Pupusas: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach and use vegan cheese or mashed beans.

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce to the filling for a kick of heat.

Seafood Pupusas: Swap the chicken for cooked shrimp or crab meat for a unique twist.

Breakfast Pupusas: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage for a morning treat.

Curtido Variations: Add thinly sliced radishes, cilantro, or jalapeños to the slaw for extra flavor.

Dessert Pupusas: Fill the dough with sweetened cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves for a dessert spin.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store cooked pupusas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Pupusas can be frozen before or after cooking. To freeze uncooked pupusas, layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container. Cook them directly from frozen when ready. For cooked pupusas, let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. What are pupusas?
Pupusas are a traditional Salvadoran dish made with a thick masa dough stuffed with various fillings such as cheese, beans, meat, or vegetables. They are griddled until golden and typically served with curtido (a tangy cabbage slaw) and salsa.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the masa dough a few hours in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature to prevent it from drying out.

3. Are pupusas gluten-free?
Yes, since they are made with masa harina (corn flour), they are naturally gluten-free.

4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Ensure the dough is sealed well around the filling. Be gentle when flattening the dough to avoid creating holes.

5. Can I cook pupusas without a griddle?
Yes, you can use a non-stick skillet, cast-iron pan, or even an electric griddle to cook pupusas.

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