When I first tasted Churu Chicken Amarillo at a cozy little Peruvian restaurant, I was captivated by its vibrant flavor and comforting creaminess. This dish features tender chicken bathed in a stunning ají amarillo sauce that balances a kick of spice with the warmth of cumin, making it a standout on any dining table. Just imagining the aroma curling through my kitchen brings back those holiday gatherings with family, where every bite was a celebration.
Whether you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or simply craving a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is the perfect blend of exotic flavor and sheer comfort. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—swap in your favorite vegetables or choose a protein that fits your dietary needs. Each option will yield a delicious outcome that feels both indulgent and approachable. So grab your apron and let’s bring a taste of Peru right to your dinner plate!
Why is Churu Chicken Amarillo a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The creamy ají amarillo sauce provides a delightful burst of Peruvian zest that will tantalize your taste buds.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that impresses without overwhelming.
Diet-friendly Options: Whether you’re gluten-free or dairy-free, this recipe is adaptable to suit your dietary needs—just switch in your preferred substitutes!
Versatile Serving Suggestions: Pair it with rice, quinoa, or sweet plantains for a complete meal that impresses every time.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, watch as this dish disappears from the table—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Churu Chicken Amarillo Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs/Breasts – Main protein; provides structure and richness.
- Olive Oil – Cooking fat; adds flavor and helps to sear the chicken.
For the Seasoning
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasoning; enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- Ground Cumin – Spice; adds warmth and an earthy flavor.
For the Sauce
- Ají Amarillo Paste – Primary flavoring; provides heat, color, and richness for the Churu Chicken Amarillo.
- Yellow Onion – Aromatic; adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic – Adds aroma and flavor; enhances the overall taste.
- Chicken Broth – Liquid base for the sauce; adds umami flavor.
- Heavy Cream/Evaporated Milk – Provides creaminess; enriches the sauce.
Optional Additions
- Sugar (Optional) – Balances heat and acidity if desired.
- Fresh Cilantro – Garnish; adds freshness and color.
Substitution Notes
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Parts – Use for quicker cooking time.
- Coconut Milk – Ideal for a dairy-free version.
- Vegetable Broth – Great alternative for a vegetarian option.
- Shallots – A milder substitute for yellow onion.
- Honey or Maple Syrup – Can replace sugar for a more natural sweetness.
How to Make Churu Chicken Amarillo
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Prep Chicken: Rub the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper, ensuring an even coating. Let them rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors and prepare for cooking.
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Sear Chicken: In a skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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Cook Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the chopped yellow onion until it becomes translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and ground cumin, stirring until fragrant—about 1 minute.
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Make Sauce: Mix in the ají amarillo paste and let it simmer for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors. Gradually stir in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate all those delicious bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Finish Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream or evaporated milk, simmering until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it, and let everything simmer together for an extra 5 minutes.
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Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and serve hot with your choice of rice, quinoa, or fried plantains.
Optional: Serve with a wedge of lime for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Churu Chicken Amarillo Variations
Customize your dish with these delightful twists and substitutions to make it your own!
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Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy, non-dairy option that still delivers richness. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness that beautifully complements the spices.
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Seafood Alternative: Swap the chicken for shrimp for a delightful seafood version. This will cook quicker, so be sure to sauté just until pink and tender!
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Vegetarian Option: Use firm tofu instead of chicken for a satisfying meatless dish. Just cube the tofu and sauté until golden before adding it to the sauce for an equally rich experience.
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Incorporate Vegetables: Add chopped spinach or roasted peppers into the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor. This not only enhances the color but also packs in a healthy punch!
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Elevated Serving: Serve your chicken over saffron rice or with roasted garlic mashed potatoes. These luxurious pairings add a gourmet touch that impresses every time.
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Extra Heat: For a spicier kick, mix in sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce while it simmers. This is perfect for those who love their dishes on the fiery side!
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Smoky Flavor: Add a spoonful of smoked paprika to the sauce for a deeper flavor profile. The smoky notes beautifully meld with the creaminess for added depth in each bite.
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Nutty Twist: Stir in some toasted almond slivers just before serving. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
What to Serve with Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Bring your dining experience to life with vibrant sides that enhance the rich flavors of this Peruvian delight.
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Fluffy Rice: This staple absorbs the creamy ají amarillo sauce beautifully, providing a perfect base for your meal.
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Quinoa Salad: A light, nutty quinoa salad adds texture and a refreshing contrast that balances the dish’s richness.
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Sweet Plantains: Fried or baked, these caramelized bites offer a subtle sweetness that complements the dish’s warm spices.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the luscious sauce, adding an irresistible crunch to your meal.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the slightly spicy sauce, creating a delightful flavor harmony.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with lime provides a crisp and cooling counterpoint, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Cilantro-Lime Rice: Infused with fresh herbs and citrus, this fragrant rice option lifts the dish, making each bite sing with flavor.
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Pisco Sour: This classic Peruvian cocktail, with its tangy and smooth profile, complements the spiciness perfectly and makes for a festive pairing.
Enjoy exploring these delicious matches as you elevate your dining occasion!
Make Ahead Options
Churu Chicken Amarillo is an excellent choice for busy home cooks wanting to streamline meal preparation! You can marinate the chicken with salt and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply. Additionally, the creamy ají amarillo sauce can be cooked beforehand and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to let it cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, and add the seared chicken back into the pan, simmering until heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade dish with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Churu Chicken Amarillo
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Spice Adjustment: Start with a small amount of ají amarillo paste; you can always add more, but it’s hard to tone down the heat once it’s in!
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Creamy Consistency: When adding cream, don’t let the mixture boil vigorously. Gentle heat helps maintain that perfect creamy texture in your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
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Flavor Balancing: If you’re using substitutes like vegetable broth or coconut milk, taste as you go. Adjust spices accordingly to maintain a flavorful balance in your dish.
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Searing Secrets: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken for optimal searing. This gives you that beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside juicy.
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Freshness Factor: Always garnish your finished dish with fresh cilantro; it adds a pop of color and a fresh taste that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps to keep the creamy ají amarillo sauce fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Churu Chicken Amarillo in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure the container is airtight to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of chicken broth to restore the creamy texture.
Reheating: Warm up the dish over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This will keep the flavors intact and maintain the quality of your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ají amarillo paste?
I recommend choosing ají amarillo paste that has a bright, vivid color without any dark spots. The paste should smell fragrant, indicating freshness. If you can’t find ají amarillo, consider using a mix of 1 tsp turmeric and ½ tsp paprika for a similar flavor profile.
How long can I store leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, perhaps adding a splash of broth to retain that creamy consistency.
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Can I freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled Churu Chicken Amarillo in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will stay delicious for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish if needed?
It’s very easy to adjust the spice level! Start with a small amount of ají amarillo paste, and taste as you go. If it turns out too spicy, I suggest adding a bit more cream or coconut milk to mellow the heat or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. This way, you can tailor it to your personal preference!
Are there any allergy considerations I should take into account?
Definitely! If you have dairy allergies, replace heavy cream with coconut milk. For gluten-free needs, ensure your broth and any added seasonings are certified gluten-free. Always be sure to check ingredient labels to avoid any allergens, and you can swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for other dietary needs.
What’s a good way to incorporate vegetables into this dish?
I love the idea of incorporating vegetables! You can add a handful of fresh spinach or some roasted bell peppers right after you stir in the cream. Just let them simmer in the sauce together for a few minutes until tender. This not only enhances the dish’s nutritional value but also adds lovely color and texture!
Churu Chicken Amarillo: Creamy Flavor Explosion for Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rub the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper, ensuring an even coating. Let them rest for about 10 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the chopped yellow onion until it becomes translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and ground cumin, stirring until fragrant—about 1 minute.
- Mix in the ají amarillo paste and let it simmer for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors. Gradually stir in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate all those delicious bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream or evaporated milk, simmering until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it, and let everything simmer together for an extra 5 minutes.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and serve hot with your choice of rice, quinoa, or fried plantains.
