Pollo a la Huancaína (Keto Modificado)
Chicken with Keto Huancaína Sauce
Yes, with a tweak: the Huancaína sauce MUST be prepared without its traditional saltine crackers (galletas de soda) or boiled potatoes for thickening. About 13g net carbs per serving, on the higher side for Peruvian food, so watch the portion.
What it is
A succulent grilled or pan-seared chicken breast or thigh generously smothered in a rich, creamy, and spicy Huancaína sauce. The keto-adapted sauce is made from ají amarillo, fresh cheese (queso fresco), heavy cream, garlic, and olive oil, served without its traditional potato base or rice.
Key ingredients
Chicken breast/thigh, ají amarillo paste, queso fresco, heavy cream, olive oil, garlic, red onion, salt, black pepper.
How to make it keto
CRITICAL: The Huancaína sauce MUST be prepared without its traditional saltine crackers (galletas de soda) or boiled potatoes for thickening. Request that the sauce is made with heavy cream and fresh cheese as a binder. Ensure no potatoes, rice, or other high-carb sides are served.
Watch out for
The traditional Huancaína sauce is inherently high in carbs due to saltine crackers and often potato. Many restaurants will not be able to accommodate this modification without advance notice. Commercial ají amarillo paste might contain added sugar. Cross-contamination risk if not made fresh to order.
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.
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