There’s something wonderfully inviting about the rich aroma of Churu Chicken Amarillo wafting through the kitchen. As the vibrant hues of the aji amarillo sauce swirl around the tender chicken, you’re drawn into the heart of Peruvian cuisine—a delightful escape from mundane meals. After a long day, this creamy and spicy dish becomes a comforting hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something both satisfying and quick to prepare.
The best part? This recipe isn’t just about flavor; it’s adaptable, allowing you to play with the spice levels to suit your palate. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply craving a cozy family dinner, Churu Chicken Amarillo is the answer. Let’s dive into the flavors and textures that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser!
Why is Churu Chicken Amarillo a Must-Try?
Irresistibly Creamy: This dish features a luscious, creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken, providing a delightful comfort food experience.
Spicy, Yet Adaptable: Tailor the heat to your liking by adjusting the aji amarillo paste, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys their meal.
Quick Weeknight Wonder: Ready in just under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those hectic evenings when you need something fast without sacrificing taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The unique combination of smoky, fruity, and spicy notes makes this dish a guaranteed favorite for family and guests alike.
Versatile Pairings: Serve it with rice, quinoa, or fried plantains for a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is hearty.
Churu Chicken Amarillo Ingredients
• Ready to whip up this creamy and spicy delight? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Chicken
- Chicken – Tender cuts provide the primary protein; consider boneless, skinless thighs or breasts for ease.
For the Sauce
- Aji Amarillo Paste – The defining ingredient adds smoky and spicy notes, essential for authentic Churu Chicken Amarillo flavor. Substitute with turmeric and paprika for milder heat.
- Heavy Cream/Evaporated Milk – Creates a luxurious creamy sauce; for lighter versions, use half-and-half or milk.
- Chicken Broth – Adds richness to the sauce; homemade or store-bought works beautifully.
- Ground Cumin – Infuses warm, earthy notes to elevate the dish.
For the Aromatics
- Onion – Finely diced yellow onion adds sweetness and depth.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances overall flavor, making each bite irresistible.
For Cooking
- Olive Oil – For sautéing; contributes to browning the chicken. Can substitute with vegetable oil.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
- Sugar (optional) – Balances the heat from the chili paste, enhancing flavor harmony.
For Garnish
- Fresh Cilantro – Brightens and adds freshness; optional if not available.
Now that you’re equipped with the ingredients for this delightful Churu Chicken Amarillo, let’s move on to creating this creamy and spicy Peruvian masterpiece!
How to Make Churu Chicken Amarillo
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Prepare Chicken: Season your chicken with salt and pepper, allowing it to rest for about 10 minutes. This step ensures a flavorful and well-seasoned meat.
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Brown Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and ground cumin, stirring for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Make Sauce: Stir in aji amarillo paste and let it cook for 2 minutes, enhancing the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth, scrapping any bits off the skillet’s bottom. Next, mix in heavy cream and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Combine: Return the browned chicken to the skillet, spoon the creamy sauce over it, and simmer for another 5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and infused with all those delicious flavors.
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Garnish & Serve: Garnish your Churu Chicken Amarillo with fresh cilantro. Serve it steaming hot over rice, quinoa, or alongside fried plantains for a comforting meal.
Optional: Add a squeeze of lime for a bright, zesty kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo
Fridge: Keep leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove over low heat to maintain the creamy texture.
Freezer: Store Churu Chicken Amarillo in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately from the chicken to save time during busy weeknights.
Churu Chicken Amarillo Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic to make this dish your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy yet dairy-free sauce, adding a hint of tropical flavor.
The richness balances beautifully with the aji amarillo’s spiciness. -
Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with hearty roasted cauliflower or chickpeas for a filling veggie option.
This twist transforms the dish while still delivering a satisfying, creamy sauce. -
Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
The veggies not only enhance the flavor profile, but also contribute a lovely texture contrast. -
Protein Swap: Use shrimp or firm tofu instead of chicken for a lighter seafood or plant-based version.
Both alternatives absorb the flavors, making every bite a taste explosion. -
Heat Boost: For those who crave more spice, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Elevating the heat creates a dynamic contrast with the creamy sauce, perfect for heat lovers! -
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of cilantro for a fresh flavor twist.
Each herb brings a unique fragrance that can brighten the entire dish. -
Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of lime juice to the sauce right before serving for a refreshing brightness.
This zing complements the creamy texture, elevating the overall flavor experience. -
Nutty Crunch: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of toasted almonds or cashews for a delightful crunch.
The added texture creates a satisfying contrast while enhancing the visual appeal.
Expert Tips for Churu Chicken Amarillo
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Spice Adjustment: Start with a small amount of aji amarillo paste, then increase to your preferred heat level to avoid overwhelming flavors.
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Prep Ahead: Consider making the sauce in advance. Store it separately, allowing for quick reheating when you’re ready to cook the chicken.
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Meat Temperature: Always ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
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Texture Check: For an extra creamy consistency, whisk in a bit more heavy cream towards the end of cooking if needed.
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Garnish Brightness: Fresh cilantro adds a wonderful freshness; if it’s not available, try using chopped green onions instead for a similar zing.
What to Serve with Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Set the stage for a mouthwatering dining experience that complements this creamy and spicy Peruvian delight.
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Fluffy White Rice: Perfectly absorbs the rich sauce, making every bite delightful and satisfying.
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Quinoa Salad: A nutty twist that adds texture. Toss with fresh veggies and a squeeze of lime for brightness.
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Fried Plantains: Their sweetness contrasts beautifully with the heat of the dish, offering a delightful balance of flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies seasoned and roasted bring earthy notes that harmonize with the creaminess.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve them on the side for an enjoyable crunch, perfect for scooping up sauce.
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Chilled Pisco Sour: This refreshing Peruvian cocktail, with its citrusy zing, complements the spice of the chicken beautifully.
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Lime Wedges: A squeeze adds a zesty brightness that elevates the dish and rounds out its flavors wonderfully!
Embrace the warmth and depth of Churu Chicken Amarillo with these delightful pairings that bring your meal to life!
Make Ahead Options
Churu Chicken Amarillo is a fantastic option for meal prep, making busy weeknights even more manageable! You can prepare the sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before cooking the chicken. Simply sauté the onions, garlic, and spices, mix in the aji amarillo paste, chicken broth, and cream, and let it cool before storing in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Churu Chicken Amarillo, just reheat the sauce in a skillet, brown your chicken fresh, and combine the two for a quick meal that’s just as scrumptious as when you made it the first time! Don’t forget to garnish with cilantro right before serving for a burst of freshness!
Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right aji amarillo paste for Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Absolutely! Aji amarillo paste should be bright yellow with a vibrant aroma. Look for a smooth texture without dark spots. If unavailable, you can substitute it with a combination of turmeric and paprika for color and mild heat.
What’s the best way to store leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo?
You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, ensuring that the creamy sauce doesn’t curdle.
Can I freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Yes, absolutely! Freeze your Churu Chicken Amarillo in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight, and when you’re ready to reheat, warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a little more chicken broth or cream, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. This keeps everything nice and creamy while enhancing the flavor.
Is Churu Chicken Amarillo safe for kids or those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! Churu Chicken Amarillo is adaptable—just adjust the spice levels. For kids or milder palates, start with a smaller amount of aji amarillo paste. If you’re catering to any allergies, ensure you check the ingredient list for any substitutes.
How can I enhance the flavors of Churu Chicken Amarillo?
To elevate the flavors even further, consider adding diced bell peppers or fresh lime juice while cooking. This adds a delightful zing and a bit of color to the dish! Enjoy experimenting!
Creamy Churu Chicken Amarillo for Quick Comfort Food Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season your chicken with salt and pepper, allowing it to rest for about 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- In the same skillet, add diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and ground cumin, stirring for an additional minute.
- Stir in aji amarillo paste and let it cook for 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, scrapping any bits off the skillet's bottom. Mix in heavy cream and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Return the browned chicken to the skillet, spoon the creamy sauce over it, and simmer for another 5 minutes until fully cooked.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice, quinoa, or alongside fried plantains.