There’s something incredibly inviting about the rich aroma of Churu Chicken Amarillo wafting through my kitchen. As the golden chicken sears away in the skillet, I can’t help but smile at the warmth and comfort this Peruvian dish brings. Infused with the vibrant, creamy ají amarillo sauce, each bite is a delightful dance of flavors—subtle spice paired with a hint of sweetness, making it ideal for everything from cozy weeknights to festive gatherings with friends.
I stumbled upon this recipe during my quest for comforting meals that accommodate various dietary preferences. It’s the perfect solution for those of us who are tired of the same old fast-food routine and crave something homemade and satisfying. Whether you serve it over rice, quinoa, or alongside sweet plantains, this dish transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable feast. Trust me, once you try Churu Chicken Amarillo, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen repertoire!
Why is Churu Chicken Amarillo a Must-Try?
Comforting Delight: This dish wraps tender chicken in a creamy, vibrant ají amarillo sauce, creating a hug-in-a-bowl experience that warms the heart.
Flavorful Fusion: The unique blend of savory spices and creamy elements ensures each bite is bursting with flavor, appealing to both adventurous eaters and comfort food lovers.
Dietary Friendly: Easily adaptable, Churu Chicken Amarillo can be transformed into a gluten-free and dairy-free meal, making it perfect for guests with varying dietary needs.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights while also being impressive enough for gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside sweet plantains, and watch it disappear at your next dinner party!
Churu Chicken Amarillo Ingredients
• Let’s gather everything we need for this comforting Peruvian dish!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs/Breasts – Lean protein providing the dish’s main structure; boneless, skinless are preferred for ease of cooking.
- Olive Oil – Used for searing the chicken and sautéing vegetables; any neutral oil can work as a substitute.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust based on preference.
- Black Pepper – Adds warmth and depth; adjust according to taste.
For the Sauce
- Ají Amarillo Paste – Key flavoring agent providing mild, fruity heat and vibrant color; a blend of turmeric and paprika can substitute for a similar appearance.
- Yellow Onion – Adds natural sweetness and aromatic depth to the sauce.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor with its aromatic qualities.
- Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and richness; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
- Heavy Cream/Evaporated Milk – Creates a rich, creamy texture; coconut milk is an excellent dairy-free substitute.
- Ground Cumin – Provides warmth and earthiness to the flavor profile.
- Sugar (optional) – Balances spice if the sauce is too hot.
For Serving
- Fresh Cilantro (garnish) – Adds brightness when served.
- Cooked Rice/Quinoa – Suggested sides that complement the sauce beautifully.
- Fried Plantains – Offers a sweet contrast to the spiciness and creaminess of the chicken.
This delightful Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe brings comfort food to the forefront, appealing to every palate!
How to Make Churu Chicken Amarillo
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Prepare Chicken: Rub the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper, then let them rest for 10 minutes. This enhances the flavor and allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
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Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, then sauté diced yellow onion until translucent—this will take about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and ground cumin, cooking until fragrant for about 1 minute.
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Make Sauce: Stir in the ají amarillo paste and cook for 2 minutes, releasing its vibrant flavor. Next, pour in the chicken broth, scraping the browned bits from the skillet, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Combine: Stir in the heavy cream or evaporated milk, mixing until smooth and slightly thickened. Return the chicken to the pan, spoon the sauce over it, and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning, adding sugar if desired.
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Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve this delightful dish over fluffy rice, quinoa, or sweet plantains to enhance the experience.
Optional: Squeeze a little lime juice over the top for an extra zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo
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Room Temperature: Allow the Churu Chicken Amarillo to cool completely before storing. Do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent food spoilage.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The creamy ají amarillo sauce may thicken; add a splash of broth when reheating for the best texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Churu Chicken Amarillo in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. Stir often and add a little chicken broth or water to maintain the creamy consistency.
What to Serve with Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Create a vibrant, satisfying meal experience that beautifully complements the rich flavors of this Peruvian dish.
- Fluffy Rice: Perfectly absorbs the creamy ají amarillo sauce, making each bite comforting and delightful.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty contrast that adds a nutritional boost, complementing the chicken’s tenderness and enriching the dining experience.
- Fried Plantains: Their sweetness offers a fantastic balance to the dish’s spiciness, elevating every mouthful to pure bliss.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adds a fresh, crisp texture and bright color, enhancing the meal’s overall presentation and nutrition.
- Zesty Cucumber Salad: This refreshing side provides a cool crunch that cuts through the creaminess of the sauce, making for a well-rounded meal.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Infused with citrusy zest, this rice brings an added layer of flavor and brightness, perfectly complementing every spoonful of chicken.
- Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: Its crispness and acidity pair beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the ají amarillo without overpowering the dish.
- Chocolate Flan: A rich and velvety dessert to finish, offering sweetness that satisfies the palate after the flavorful entrée.
Tips for the Best Churu Chicken Amarillo
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Perfect Seasoning: Ensure to rub the chicken with salt and pepper generously. This enhances the overall flavor of your Churu Chicken Amarillo, making it irresistibly tasty.
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Achieve Golden Brown: Sear the chicken over medium-high heat for a nice golden crust, which adds depth to the flavor and visual appeal.
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Avoid Burned Onions: Keep an eye on your onion while sautéing; they should become translucent, not browned. Too much heat can lead to bitterness in the sauce.
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Consistency Matters: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk—this will keep it creamy without being gloopy.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair Churu Chicken Amarillo with fluffy rice, quinoa, or fried plantains for a complete meal that balances flavor and texture. Enjoy your comfort food!
Churu Chicken Amarillo Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this dish your own while keeping the comforting essence intact!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond-based cream for a plant-friendly alternative that still offers creaminess.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes for extra heat, enhancing that vibrant Peruvian flair.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in veggies like spinach or peas during the sautéing process; their bright colors and flavors will complement the dish beautifully. This adds nutrition and elevates the meal.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for a fresh aromatic punch. These herbs lift the dish, making it even more vibrant.
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Protein Change-Up: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences. Both options will soak up the sauce’s flavors beautifully.
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Cuisine Blending: Infuse the sauce with flavors like soy sauce or ginger to create an Asian-inspired twist on the traditional recipe. A fusion take makes for exciting variety!
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in a spoonful of almond or peanut butter into the sauce for an unexpected creaminess and nuttiness that pairs well with the mild heat of ají amarillo.
With these variations, your Churu Chicken Amarillo will never be boring—each twist invites new flavors and experiences to savor!
Make Ahead Options
Churu Chicken Amarillo is an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken with salt and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavor as it rests in the refrigerator. The sauce can be made ahead as well; simply prepare it completely and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, make sure to cool the sauce before refrigerating, and when ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove while adding a splash of chicken broth for the perfect texture. Finally, just sear the marinated chicken fresh before simmering it in the reheated sauce, and you’ll have a stunning meal with minimal effort!
Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their moisture and tenderness, though breast meat works too if you prefer. Look for pieces that are a light pink color and don’t have dark spots or any foul odor. Fresh chicken should feel firm and spring back when pressed.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Churu Chicken Amarillo?
After your delightful meal, allow any leftovers to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken as it sits, so when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture while warming over low heat on the stovetop.
Can I freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool entirely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of broth if needed to preserve that creamy consistency.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
Very! If you find your sauce has thickened too much during cooking or reheating, simply add a little chicken broth, coconut milk, or even water. Stir continuously over low heat until you achieve the desired consistency. This will bring back that velvety texture that makes Churu Chicken Amarillo so irresistible!
Is Churu Chicken Amarillo suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This recipe can easily be adjusted to suit gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Use gluten-free chicken broth and substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond cream for a delightful dairy-free alternative. Additionally, you can replace chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or pescatarian-friendly dish!
How can I add more nutrition to Churu Chicken Amarillo?
I often enhance my Churu Chicken Amarillo by adding vibrant vegetables! Sauté in some spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers during the aromatic stage. This not only boosts the nutritional profile but adds beautiful colors and textures to your dish, making it even more appealing at the dinner table.
Churu Chicken Amarillo: Creamy Comfort from Peru in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rub the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper, then let them rest for 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, then sauté diced yellow onion until translucent for about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and ground cumin, cooking until fragrant for about 1 minute.
- Stir in the ají amarillo paste and cook for 2 minutes, then pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream or evaporated milk, mixing until smooth, then return the chicken to the pan and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve over rice, quinoa, or sweet plantains.