As the aroma of sizzling onions fills the air, I can’t help but smile at the thought of Churu Chicken Amarillo. This Peruvian delight wraps juicy chicken in a creamy ají amarillo sauce that dances playfully between mild heat and comforting richness. The best part? It comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a homemade feast without the fuss. Plus, it’s a wonderfully adaptable dish that can be paired with fluffy rice, nutty quinoa, or even sweet plantains, ensuring everyone at the table finds their happy plate. Curious to dive into the flavors of Peru with me?
Why is Churu Chicken Amarillo a must-try?
Irresistible Comfort: The creamy ají amarillo sauce enveloping tender chicken creates a warm, satisfying dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
Quick & Easy: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners without sacrificing quality.
Versatile Flavor: Use shrimp or tofu for pescatarian or vegetarian variations, and see how easily it adapts to your dietary preferences. Add veggies like spinach or roasted peppers for extra nutrition!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family gatherings or casual meals with friends, Churu Chicken Amarillo is sure to impress. Pair it with Garlic Chicken Gnocchi for an unforgettable feast!
Cultural Flavors: Enjoy a taste of Peru right at home, blending indigenous spices and flavors that tell a rich culinary story.
Churu Chicken Amarillo Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken (1.5 lb boneless, skinless thighs/breasts) – The main protein source that keeps the dish hearty and juicy.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil (2 Tbsp) – Ideal for sautéing; enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Ají Amarillo Paste (3 Tbsp) – Provides the distinct, fruity flavor profile; substitute with 1 tsp turmeric + ½ tsp paprika for a similar hue and taste if unavailable.
• Yellow Onion (1 medium, finely diced) – Adds sweetness and aroma when sautéed, acting as a wonderful base for your sauce.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with depth and a fragrant kick.
• Ground Cumin (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and spiciness, enhancing the sauce’s flavor complexity.
• Salt (1 tsp) & Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Essential seasoning that builds the dish’s foundational taste.
For the Creaminess
• Heavy Cream or Evaporated Milk (½ cup) – Creates a rich, creamy texture; for a dairy-free option, coconut milk can be used instead.
For Finishing Touches
• Chicken Broth (½ cup) – Adds moisture and flavor; can be swapped with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Optional Sugar (¼ tsp) – Balances the heat level; alter according to your spice preference.
• Fresh Cilantro – Serves as a vibrant garnish, adding a fresh touch to the final presentation.
For Serving
• Cooked White Rice or Quinoa/Fried Plantains – Perfect sides that beautifully complement the creamy ají amarillo sauce over the chicken.
Dive into making this delightful Churu Chicken Amarillo and savor its comforting essence!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Churu Chicken Amarillo
Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by rubbing the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper, ensuring an even coating. Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature; this step helps enhance the flavor and promotes even cooking.
Step 2: Sear Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it turns translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and ground cumin, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 4: Make Sauce
After the aromatics are nicely cooked, stir in the ají amarillo paste, allowing it to cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors. Then, pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Finish Sauce
Once simmering, add the heavy cream or evaporated milk to the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened, which should take around 2-3 minutes. This creamy layer adds richness to your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
Step 6: Combine Chicken & Sauce
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is submerged in the tantalizing sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for about 5 minutes, which melds the flavors beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning, stirring in sugar if you desire a touch of sweetness.
Step 7: Serve
Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your Churu Chicken Amarillo with freshly chopped cilantro to add a pop of color and brightness. Serve it warm alongside cooked white rice, quinoa, or fried plantains for a complete and satisfying meal.
Make Ahead Options
Churu Chicken Amarillo is fantastic for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy homemade flavors with minimal fuss! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the spices to infuse for deeper flavor. Additionally, the sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop until warmed through, and add the cooked chicken to simmer for about 5 minutes until everything is hot. This way, your Churu Chicken Amarillo is just as delicious but saves you precious prep time!
Expert Tips for Churu Chicken Amarillo
Adjust Spice Level: Use less ají amarillo paste for a milder taste or more if you’re craving heat; taste as you go for the perfect balance.
Creamy Alternatives: For a lighter meal, opt for evaporated milk instead of heavy cream; coconut milk is excellent for a dairy-free twist.
Garnish Wisely: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish, but consider adding toasted peanuts or queso fresco for a delightful texture contrast.
Don’t Rush the Searing: Properly searing your chicken enhances flavors and color; avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve that gorgeous golden finish.
Store Smartly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
What to Serve with Creamy Churu Chicken Amarillo
Set the stage for a delightful Peruvian feast that brings comfort and warmth to your table with each harmonious pairing.
- Fluffy White Rice: This classic side absorbs the creamy ají amarillo sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying bite with each forkful.
- Nutty Quinoa: Packed with protein, quinoa adds a delightful texture and complements the dish’s richness, making it a nutritious choice.
- Sweet Plantains: Their sweetness contrasts perfectly with the savory flavors of the chicken, offering a delightful balance that will please your palate.
- Garlicky Spinach: Sautéed spinach with garlic adds a fresh, vibrant element, making your meal feel lighter and more nuanced.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of colorful roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and onions brings a sweet caramelization to the table, enriching the dish.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: For a fun crunch, serve with tortilla chips on the side, perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: A glass of this crisp white wine pairs excellently, cutting through the creaminess while complementing the flavors of Peru.
- Coconut Flan: End your meal with a slice of luscious coconut flan; the creamy custard will echo the dessert-like quality of your chicken.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Infuse a hint of citrus to elevate the rice and enhance the dish’s bright flavors, taking your meal to the next level.
How to Store and Freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth for moisture.
Freezer: If you’d like to enjoy your Churu Chicken Amarillo later, freeze it in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Add broth as needed to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving leftovers out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.
Churu Chicken Amarillo: Customization Ideas
Feel free to explore these variations that highlight your creativity and allow you to tailor this delicious dish to your taste!
- Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a creamy, plant-based alternative that still packs flavor.
- Protein Swaps: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu to suit vegetarian or pescatarian diets; both options soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach, peas, or roasted peppers for added nutrients and color—your taste buds will thank you!
- Grain Variations: Serve over saffron rice for a gourmet touch or try it with a roasted garlic mash to elevate your meal experience.
- Spice Up: Increase the ají amarillo paste to ramp up the heat, or throw in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
- Nutty Twist: Garnish with toasted peanuts or nuts for a delightful crunch that enhances texture and flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Try using fresh parsley or basil instead of cilantro for a unique herbaceous twist.
- Sweet & Spicy: Add a dash of honey or maple syrup to balance the spice, creating a lovely sweet contrast that rounds out the flavors.
These ideas can help keep your Churu Chicken Amarillo lively and continuously delightful. Don’t forget to enjoy it alongside some warm, homemade Honey Pepper Chicken for a comforting family dinner!
Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken?
When choosing chicken, opt for boneless, skinless thighs or breasts that are firm to the touch and have a pinkish hue. Avoid any chicken with dark spots or a slimy texture, as these can indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Store your Churu Chicken Amarillo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to preserve freshness and flavor, and reheat with a splash of broth to restore its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the Churu Chicken Amarillo into airtight freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to label them with the date. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. For the best texture when reheating, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, no worries! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water over low heat while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. This will help maintain that creamy, luscious texture.
Is this dish suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes! The Churu Chicken Amarillo can easily be adapted for different dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, and if gluten-free, make sure to use a gluten-free chicken broth. Always check the ají amarillo paste labeling to ensure it’s gluten-free if needed.
Can I use different proteins or veggies?
Certainly! Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian option. Additionally, incorporating veggies such as spinach, peas, or roasted peppers is a fantastic way to elevate your dish while adding extra nutrition.
Delicious Churu Chicken Amarillo: A Creamy Comfort Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rub the chicken with salt and black pepper, letting it rest for 10 minutes.
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes each side until golden brown.
- Add remaining olive oil, onion, and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cumin for 1 minute.
- Mix in ají amarillo paste, cooking for 2 minutes, then add chicken broth and simmer.
- Stir in cream or evaporated milk, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened, around 2-3 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet, ensuring they're submerged in sauce. Simmer together for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve warm with rice, quinoa, or fried plantains.
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