Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe

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If you’re looking to delight your taste buds with something vibrant yet comforting, Churu Chicken Amarillo is the ultimate dish to try. Imagine tender chicken seared just right, swimming in a creamy yellow sauce bursting with the bright, slightly spicy flavors of ají amarillo and warm cumin. This Peruvian-inspired recipe balances a subtle sweetness with a touch of heat and brings a perfect taste of Lima right into your kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a dinner with friends, this dish promises both flair and ease, making it a personal favorite that you’ll want to savor again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet essential for capturing the authentic flavors and creamy texture that make Churu Chicken Amarillo so irresistible. Each one plays a special role, from the golden sear on the chicken to the silky, luscious sauce infused with ají amarillo paste.

• 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for juiciness or breasts for a leaner option, both work beautifully.
• 1 Tbsp olive oil: Provides the perfect medium for searing the chicken to a golden brown.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and ensures the chicken is perfectly seasoned.
• ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that complements the warm spices in the sauce.
• 3 Tbsp ají amarillo paste (or substitute with 1 tsp turmeric + ½ tsp paprika): This is the star ingredient giving the sauce its distinctive yellow color and vibrant flavor.
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced: Creates a sweet, aromatic base for the sauce.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with rich, savory depth.
• ½ cup chicken broth: Adds a gentle, savory moisture that helps meld all the flavors together.
• ½ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
• 1 tsp ground cumin: Warms up the dish with an earthy spice that’s essential to the flavor profile.
• Optional ¼ tsp sugar: Balances the heat and acidity for a perfect harmony of flavors.
• Optional garnishes and sides: Fresh cilantro for brightness, and cooked white rice, quinoa, or fried plantains for serving.

How to Make Churu Chicken Amarillo

Step 1: Season and Rest the Chicken

Start by rubbing your chicken pieces thoroughly with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning step is vital because it ensures each bite has a well-rounded flavor. After seasoning, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes; resting lets the salt absorb and tenderizes the meat subtly.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the hot oil and sear each side for 4 to 5 minutes. The goal here is to develop a gorgeous golden crust that locks in juices, so resist the urge to move the chicken too soon. Once cooked through and beautifully browned, remove the chicken and set it aside – don’t worry, the sauce is coming!

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and toss in your finely diced onion. Sauté gently until translucent, which usually takes around 5 minutes. This slow cooking softens the onion’s sweetness and creates a flawless foundation. Then add the minced garlic and cumin; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Step 4: Bring in the Ají Amarillo Paste

Stir in the ají amarillo paste carefully – this ingredient is what gives the sauce its luminous yellow color and signature flavor. Cook it for 2 minutes, letting the spices blossom beautifully. If you don’t have ají amarillo, turmeric and paprika make a tasteful substitute that keeps the vibrant hue alive.

Step 5: Simmer with Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth, using your spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan; those little bits add intense flavor to the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the cream or evaporated milk. Keep stirring until the sauce is luxuriously smooth and slightly thickened – it should coat your spoon with a silky sheen. At this point, taste and add a pinch of sugar if you want to balance out any sharp edges.

Step 6: Return Chicken to Sauce

Place your seared chicken back into the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Let it simmer together for a few more minutes to marry the flavors and warm the chicken through. This final step ensures every bite is soaked with the rich, tangy notes of the Churu Chicken Amarillo sauce.

How to Serve Churu Chicken Amarillo

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro chopped over the top is not just a garnish, it’s an essential finishing touch. The bright, herbal notes cut through the richness of the sauce, elevating the entire dish with freshness and color. You can also sprinkle a little extra ground cumin or a squeeze of lime juice for an added burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

This creamy, flavor-packed dish pairs beautifully with simple white rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up every last drop of that golden sauce. If you want to add a sweet contrast, fried ripe plantains make a perfect choice with their tender texture and caramelized edges. These sides let the Churu Chicken Amarillo shine while adding their own delicious balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your chicken atop a bed of lightly seasoned roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also transform this recipe into a vibrant taco filling alongside fresh slaw and avocado slices for a playful fusion meal. The creamy ají amarillo sauce is incredibly versatile and can complement many creative plating ideas.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making for a tastier next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it completely before covering to keep it fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, making sure the sauce covers the chicken well to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results to preserve the creamy texture and vibrant flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it may alter the texture of the cream sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just fine in Churu Chicken Amarillo. Just be careful not to overcook them since breasts can dry out faster than thighs. Lower the cooking time slightly and watch for that golden crust and juicy center.

What if I can’t find ají amarillo paste?

If ají amarillo paste is out of reach, don’t worry. You can substitute with a mix of turmeric and paprika to replicate the color and add a mild peppery note similar to the original. It won’t be quite the same, but still delicious and vibrant.

Is there a vegetarian version of Churu Chicken Amarillo?

Yes! For a vegetarian twist, try replacing the chicken with hearty vegetables like cauliflower florets, mushrooms, or tofu. Sear and follow the same steps with the sauce for a satisfying plant-based meal packed with the same glorious flavors.

How spicy is this dish?

Churu Chicken Amarillo usually has a gentle to moderate heat level thanks to the ají amarillo paste. If you prefer it milder, reduce the paste or balance it with extra cream. For spice lovers, you can easily add a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce to kick it up a notch.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat it and then add the cooked chicken. This can save you time on busy evenings without sacrificing any flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Churu Chicken Amarillo that makes it stand out—whether it’s the golden creamy sauce, the warmth of cumin, or that subtle kick of ají amarillo. It’s a dish that invites you to explore new flavors without overwhelming your kitchen routine. I encourage you to give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your home, bringing a little bit of Peruvian sunshine to your table.

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