As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of sautéing garlic and ají amarillo wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy Peruvian home. This Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe is a celebration of tender chicken enveloped in a creamy, vibrant sauce, making it a delightful addition to any mealtime. With just 10 minutes of prep and a total cooking time of 25 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when comfort food is a must, yet time is of the essence. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to swap in your favorite protein or go for a dairy-free option! Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of Peruvian cuisine and impress your family and friends?
Why is Churu Chicken Amarillo Special?
Bold, Flavorful Experience: This dish offers an exceptional explosion of taste thanks to the unique ají amarillo paste, adding a delightful twist to your dinner table.
Versatile Ingredient Options: Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or tofu, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your dietary needs.
Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep and a total cooking time of just 25 minutes, serving a homemade meal has never been easier!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings or cozy family nights, Churu Chicken Amarillo is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors.
Comforting Textures: Picture succulent chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce—it’s the ideal cozy dish to unwind after a long day.
Try pairing it with a refreshing salad or explore similar delights like Garlic Chicken Gnocchi for more scrumptious ideas that will elevate your meal prep experience!
Churu Chicken Amarillo Ingredients
• Get ready to create a Peruvian masterpiece!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Ideal for tenderness; substitute with shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian version.
- Olive Oil – Perfect for searing; any neutral oil works if preferred.
For the Sauce
- Ají Amarillo Paste – Creates a vibrant flavor and color; use turmeric and paprika as a substitute if needed.
- Yellow Onion – Adds a sweet depth; shallots can be used as an alternative.
- Garlic – Introduces aromatic flavor; fresh or powdered garlic works based on your preference.
- Ground Cumin – Adds earthy warmth; omit if unavailable, though ideally kept.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to taste.
For Creaminess
- Heavy Cream or Evaporated Milk – Delivers richness; swap with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Chicken Broth – Necessary for sauce moisture and flavor; vegetable broth can substitute for a plant-based version.
- Optional Sugar – Balances any spiciness; omit if you desire less sweetness.
For Garnish and Serving
- Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the dish; parsley can be a substitute.
- Cooked White Rice or Quinoa – Serves as a great base; sweet plantains are a delicious alternative.
Dive into making this Churu Chicken Amarillo and watch it become a beloved staple in your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Churu Chicken Amarillo
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by rubbing the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper thoroughly. Let them rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning, enhancing the flavor and tenderness of the chicken. This step sets the foundation for a delicious Churu Chicken Amarillo that will shine with every bite.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil until it shimmers. Carefully place the seasoned chicken in the skillet, cooking each piece for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed and reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and ground cumin, cooking them for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as you prepare for the sauce in Churu Chicken Amarillo.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
Stir in the ají amarillo paste into the skillet, cooking for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Next, pour in the chicken broth while using a spatula to scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring this mixture to a simmer, stirring gently, as you create a vibrant base for your Churu Chicken Amarillo’s creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add Creaminess
Lower the heat slightly and incorporate heavy cream or evaporated milk into the sauce, stirring until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This creamy addition is what makes Churu Chicken Amarillo live up to its name, providing that rich, comforting texture we’re after.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the luscious sauce over the pieces. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes, which lets the chicken absorb the flavors and ensures everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning or add a sprinkle of optional sugar if you desire to balance the spice.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the dish for a bright finish. Serve your Churu Chicken Amarillo over a bed of cooked white rice or quinoa, or even sweet plantains for a delightful twist. With vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
Expert Tips for Churu Chicken Amarillo
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Spice Control: Adjust the amount of ají amarillo paste to cater to your desired spice level and avoid overwhelming heat.
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Dairy-Free Swap: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk to maintain creaminess while keeping the dish plant-based and tropical.
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Perfect Searing: Ensure the chicken pieces are well-spaced in the skillet for even browning, giving your Churu Chicken Amarillo that irresistible golden color.
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Flavorful Leftovers: Store any leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo in an airtight container, and reheat gently with a splash of broth to maintain sauce consistency.
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Vegetable Boost: Adding spinach, peas, or roasted peppers during the sauce preparation increases nutritional value while keeping the dish hearty and inviting.
How to Store and Freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo
Fridge: Store any leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before placing it in the fridge to preserve freshness.
Freezer: To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the Churu Chicken Amarillo in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain a creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions: Pair it with freshly cooked rice or quinoa to create a quick weeknight meal that retains its vibrant flavors after storage.
What to Serve with Churu Chicken Amarillo
Create a delightful dinner experience that elevates your homemade meal with these perfect pairings.
- Fluffy White Rice: A classic base to soak up the creamy ají amarillo sauce, making every bite a burst of flavor.
- Quinoa Salad: Adds a nutty texture and is packed with protein, creating a balanced meal alongside the sumptuous chicken.
- Fried Sweet Plantains: These caramelized bites introduce a hint of sweetness, beautifully contrasting with the spiciness of the dish.
- Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, avocado, and citrus vinaigrette brightens the palate and complements the rich sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, like bell peppers and zucchini, add color and nutrition, enhancing the overall eating experience.
- Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp wine cuts through the creaminess, enhancing flavors and providing a lovely accompaniment to your dinner.
- Chocolate Flan: For dessert, this decadent treat offers a rich, creamy finish to your Peruvian feast, leaving guests satisfied and happy.
Make Ahead Options
Churu Chicken Amarillo is a wonderful recipe for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the chicken by seasoning and searing it up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to maintain its juiciness. Additionally, the creamy ají amarillo sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just reheat gently over low heat when you’re ready to finish the dish. To serve, simply combine the chicken with the warmed sauce and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld those fabulous flavors. Enjoy effortless, homemade comfort any night of the week!
Churu Chicken Amarillo Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to your taste and dietary needs!
- Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, peas, or roasted peppers during cooking to enhance nutritional value and flavor.
- Seafood Twist: Swap chicken for shrimp or fish to create a delightful and light alternative, perfect for seafood lovers.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical flair while keeping it entirely plant-based.
- Heat Level Adjustments: Reduce or increase the ají amarillo paste based on your personal spice preference; make it milder or more adventurous!
- Alternative Proteins: Use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version that still packs a satisfying punch; both absorb the delicious sauce wonderfully.
- Flavorful Rice: Serve over saffron rice for an elevated option or mix in fragrant spices like turmeric or cumin.
- Sweet Plantain Side: Swap the rice or quinoa for sweet plantains, offering a sweet contrast to the creamy sauce for an authentic twist.
- Garnish Options: Instead of cilantro, try fresh parsley or basil for a different herbal note that still enhances the dish’s freshness.
For more delicious meal inspiration, don’t forget to check out the enticing flavors in Tzatziki Chicken Salad or explore the comforting addition of Garlic Chicken Gnocchi to your dinner repertoire!
Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken for Churu Chicken Amarillo?
When choosing chicken for this recipe, opt for thighs for a juicier bite, or breasts for a leaner option. Ensure the chicken is fresh, showing no discoloration or strange odors, as these can indicate poor quality. If you’re going for a lighter version, you can also use shrimp or tofu, which work beautifully in the creamy ají amarillo sauce.
How should I store leftovers of Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Absolutely! To store leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water, which helps maintain the creamy sauce consistency.
Can Churu Chicken Amarillo be frozen for later?
Yes! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth to achieve that creamy texture again.
What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a small amount of chicken broth or water to loosen it up while simmering on low heat. Stir it in gradually to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, allow it to simmer a bit longer without the lid to help reduce it, thickening it up nicely.
Are there any dietary considerations for Churu Chicken Amarillo?
This dish can be easily adapted! For those who may be lactose intolerant, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond-based cream for a dairy-free version. Additionally, adjust the ají amarillo paste according to your spice tolerance—you can always start with a little and add more to suit your palate.
Can I add extra vegetables to Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Very! Adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers not only boosts the nutrition of your Churu Chicken Amarillo but also enhances the dish’s colors and textures. Simply stir them in during the sauce preparation, allowing them to soften and mingle with the creamy goodness!
Churu Chicken Amarillo: A Creamy Taste of Peru at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rub the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper thoroughly. Let them rest for 10 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Cook the seasoned chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and reduce heat to medium. Sauté diced yellow onion for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and ground cumin, cooking for an additional minute.
- Stir in the ají amarillo paste and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and scrape the skillet bottom. Bring to a simmer.
- Lower heat and add heavy cream or evaporated milk, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened for about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes, spooning sauce over it. Adjust seasoning and add optional sugar if desired.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve over cooked white rice or quinoa.