Ingredients

2 pounds skinless , bone-in chicken breast halves
1 onion , coarsely chopped
2 carrots , chopped
2 cloves garlic
2 quarts water
1 loaf white bread , crusts removed and cubed
1 can evaporated milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup walnut pieces
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic , minced
1 onion , chopped
2 teaspoons aji amarillo chile paste
2 teaspoons ground turmeric
4 hard-cooked eggs , sliced
1/4 cup kalamata olives , pitted and quartered
Aji de Gallina is a traditional Peruvian dish that dates back to colonial times. It is believed to have originated from the French stew, fricassée, and was adapted to include local ingredients available in Peru, such as aji amarillo chile peppers. The dish consists of shredded chicken cooked in a creamy and spicy sauce made from bread, milk, cheese, and aji amarillo chile paste. It’s typically served over boiled potatoes or rice and garnished with hard-boiled eggs and olives. The dish is a popular comfort food in Peru and can be found on the menu of many local restaurants and homes.

Instructions

1.Add chicken, onion, carrots, garlic, and salt to a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
2.Reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
3.Remove chicken from pot and let cool. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of cooking liquid for later.
4.Shred chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
5.In a blender or food processor, puree bread, evaporated milk, Parmesan cheese, and walnuts.
6.In a large saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the onion is soft.
7.Add aji amarillo chile paste and ground turmeric to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
8.Add the reserved cooking liquid and the bread mixture to the pan and stir to combine.
9.Add the shredded chicken and sliced eggs to the pan and let simmer for another 5-10 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
10.Serve hot, topped with kalamata olives.

PROS

The Aji de Gallina is a rich and flavorful dish, perfect for colder days and a filling meal.

It’s also relatively easy to make and doesn’t require many exotic ingredients.

CONS

The recipe can be high in calories and fat due to the use of bread, milk and cheese.

Additionally, some ingredients like aji amarillo chile paste may be difficult to find in certain areas.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite being a high-calorie dish, Aji de Gallina can provide a good source of protein and various nutrients.
The chicken provides a good amount of protein, while the addition of onions, garlic and aji amarillo chile paste may help boost immunity and reduce inflammation.

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