As the sun sets and the kitchen fills with enticing aromas, a magical transformation begins. The moment I drizzle olive oil into the skillet, I can almost hear the sizzle; it’s the start of a delightful culinary adventure. Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my favorite dishes: Churu Chicken Amarillo. This creamy and spicy Peruvian delight marries the smoky sweetness of aji amarillo paste with tender chicken, creating a rich sauce that warms the soul.
On busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish shines with its versatility, allowing you to adjust the spice level to suit your palate. Pair it with fluffy white rice, quinoa, or even crispy fried plantains for a well-rounded meal that makes every bite feel like a comforting hug. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite that keeps your taste buds dancing and your kitchen buzzing! So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the vibrant flavors of Churu Chicken Amarillo!
Why is Churu Chicken Amarillo a Must-Try?
Comforting Delight: This dish wraps tender chicken in a creamy, velvety sauce that feels like a warm hug with every bite.
Vibrant Flavors: The smoky aji amarillo paste elevates the entire experience, infusing your meal with a unique Peruvian flair.
Customizable Spice Levels: Whether you prefer it mild or with a kick, adjust the heat to match your taste, making it perfect for everyone at the table.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, get dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less, perfect even for busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve up this dish for gatherings; it’s bound to impress family and friends! For extra meal inspiration, don’t miss checking out our guide on serving suggestions.
Churu Chicken Amarillo Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – The main protein; be sure to cook carefully for tender, juicy results.
• Olive oil – A healthy cooking fat; feel free to substitute with any neutral oil if needed.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust according to your preference.
• Black pepper – Adds the perfect hint of heat; freshly ground provides the best taste.
For the Sauce
• Aji amarillo paste – This is the star ingredient; it brings the signature smokiness and spice to the dish. For a different flavor, consider substituting with turmeric and paprika.
• Yellow onion (finely diced) – It creates a sweet base flavor when sautéed, enriching the sauce.
• Garlic (minced) – Enhances aroma and overall flavor, making it even more delightful.
• Chicken broth – Infuses moisture and depth; vegetable broth works for a lighter alternative.
• Heavy cream or evaporated milk – Creates a beautifully creamy texture; coconut milk is a great dairy-free option here.
• Ground cumin – Adds a subtle earthy flavor; optional for an extra layer of warmth.
• Sugar (optional) – Balances the heat from aji amarillo; use sparingly based on taste preference.
For Garnish and Serving
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish) – Brightens up the dish beautifully; add for a pop of color and flavor.
• Cooked white rice or quinoa (for serving) – These provide a perfect base, absorbing the delicious sauce.
• Fried plantains (for serving) – Offers a delightful sweet contrast to the spicy elements of the dish.
How to Make Churu Chicken Amarillo
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Season Chicken: Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the chicken thighs or breasts. Allow the seasoned chicken to rest for about 10 minutes, which will enhance its flavor.
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Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté Onions: In the same skillet, add the diced yellow onion. Sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce.
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Add Garlic and Cumin: Stir in the minced garlic and ground cumin, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. You’ll love how this combination fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
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Incorporate Aji Amarillo Paste: Add the aji amarillo paste to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. This is where the magic of flavor begins to unfold!
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Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any tasty bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream until you have a smooth and creamy sauce.
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Simmer Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s covered with the luscious sauce. Cover and let it simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top, and serve your Churu Chicken Amarillo alongside cooked white rice or crispy fried plantains for a delightful meal.
Optional: For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Churu Chicken Amarillo
- Perfect Chicken: Ensure the chicken is dry before seasoning; this promotes a golden, crispy exterior while keeping it juicy.
- Balanced Heat: Start with a small amount of aji amarillo paste and gradually add more; it’s easier to increase the spice than to tame it later.
- Don’t Rush: Allowing the dish to simmer for those final 5 minutes really helps blend the flavors, showcasing the rich essence of Churu Chicken Amarillo.
- Rest Time: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking; this allows flavors to settle and enhances your tasting experience.
- Skillet Space: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking chicken; this ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Storage Solution: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creaminess of the sauce.
What to Serve with Churu Chicken Amarillo?
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an opportunity to create a wonderful dining experience that lingers long after the last bite.
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Fluffy White Rice: A classic base, its neutral flavor absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, balancing the spicy notes. Perfect for mopping up every last drop!
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Quinoa Salad: Light and nutty, quinoa adds an earthy touch while providing a protein boost. Toss in some diced bell peppers for a splash of color.
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Crispy Fried Plantains: The sweet crunch of plantains contrasts delightfully with the creamy spice of the chicken, making each bite an adventure for your palate.
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Roasted Broccoli: A simple side that brings a bit of crunch and freshness to your plate, harmonizing wonderfully with the dish’s richness.
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Peruvian Corn: Grilled or simmered, the large kernels add a pop of sweetness and are a lovely nod to the dish’s vibrant cultural roots.
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Chili Mango Salsa: For those who crave a kick, this bright and fruity salsa adds a refreshing zing, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor profile.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Elevate your rice with zesty lime and aromatic cilantro for an explosion of flavor, perfectly complementing the dish’s creamy elements.
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Margaritas: A refreshing drink choice, the zesty lime and tequila perfectly balance the dish’s spicy warmth, making your meal even more memorable.
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Chocolate Flan: End on a sweet note; this rich, creamy dessert echoes the dish’s flavors while bringing a delightful finish to the meal.
Storage Tips for Churu Chicken Amarillo
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Room Temperature: If left out, Churu Chicken Amarillo should not be kept at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Store any leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, consider wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in a container.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture and avoid separation.
Make Ahead Options
Churu Chicken Amarillo is a fantastic dish for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce (steps 3 to 6) up to 3 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavors. Additionally, you can season and brown the chicken (step 2) a day before serving and refrigerate it as well. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful meal, just combine the prepped chicken with the sauce in a skillet and simmer for about 5-10 minutes until heated through. This way, you save precious time on busy weeknights while still enjoying the creamy, spicy goodness of Churu Chicken Amarillo!
Churu Chicken Amarillo Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own by exploring these delightful variations!
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Spice It Up: Increase the amount of aji amarillo paste for a spicier kick. Just a little more can turn up the heat beautifully!
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Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that still retains creaminess and adds a subtle sweetness.
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Herby Twist: Add fresh herbs like parsley or oregano along with cilantro for an aromatic boost, infusing extra freshness into the dish.
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Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach or bell peppers during the last few minutes of simmering for a pop of color and nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze in some fresh lime juice at the end for a tangy twist that adds brightness and balances the creaminess perfectly.
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Savory Sauce: Mix in roasted red bell peppers for a rich and smoky flavor addition. This will deepen the sauce while adding a hint of sweetness.
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Texture Play: Use chopped nuts like cashews or almonds as a garnish for added crunch, creating an exciting contrast to the creamy sauce.
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Noodle Fusion: Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta for an Italian-Peruvian fusion meal, turning this dish into a new family favorite!
Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select aji amarillo paste?
When choosing aji amarillo paste, look for vibrant yellow color and rich texture in a jar; this indicates freshness. Additionally, check the ingredient list for minimal additives. If using fresh aji amarillo peppers, seek out firm, undamaged peppers that are bright in hue with no dark spots.
How should I store leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Store leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing, preventing condensation that could alter the sauce’s creamy texture.
Can I freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo, and how do I do it properly?
Absolutely! To freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container, ensuring no excess air is trapped inside. It lasts up to 3 months. For best results, wrap the container in plastic wrap before sealing, which helps protect against freezer burn.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, you can thin it by adding a bit more chicken broth or even some water over low heat, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to taste and adjust seasonings as needed, especially if adding more liquid.
Is Churu Chicken Amarillo suitable for individuals with dairy allergies?
For a dairy-free version of Churu Chicken Amarillo, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. This not only meets dietary restrictions but also enriches the sauce with a hint of tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the flavors.
Can I adjust the spice level in Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Very! You can easily adapt the spice level by varying the amount of aji amarillo paste. Start with a smaller amount and gradually add more if you prefer a stronger kick. Taste as you go; this dish is all about finding that perfect balance that makes your taste buds sing!
Savor Churu Chicken Amarillo: Creamy Peruvian Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the chicken thighs or breasts. Allow the seasoned chicken to rest for about 10 minutes, enhancing its flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Onions: In the same skillet, add the diced yellow onion. Sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, building a flavorful base for your sauce.
- Add Garlic and Cumin: Stir in the minced garlic and ground cumin, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Incorporate Aji Amarillo Paste: Add aji amarillo paste to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping tasty bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
- Simmer Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s covered with the sauce. Cover and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top and serve alongside cooked white rice or crispy fried plantains.