Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe: Creamy & Spicy

Introduction: A Warm Welcome to Churu Chicken Amarillo

It’s a weeknight, you’re craving something hearty and flavorful, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Enter Churu Chicken Amarillo, a dish that’s creamy, spicy, and straight out of the vibrant world of Peruvian cuisine. I first stumbled upon this gem during a family dinner at a friend’s house. Their mother, a proud Peruvian cook, served it with a smile and stories of her homeland. One bite, and I was hooked.

What makes this dish special? The hero of the recipe is aji amarillo, a golden-yellow chili paste that’s equal parts smoky and spicy. Combined with tender chicken and a luscious sauce, it’s a dish that’s perfect for everyone—from busy parents looking for a quick dinner fix to food enthusiasts wanting to explore new flavors.

Stick around, and I’ll show you how to create this unforgettable dish step-by-step. You’ll also pick up some handy tips, serving suggestions, and even a few variations to make it your own. Let’s dive in!

What Is Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe?

Churu Chicken Amarillo is a dish rooted in Peruvian comfort food. The word “amarillo” means yellow in Spanish, highlighting the dish’s vibrant hue, thanks to the aji amarillo chili that defines its flavor. Known for its unique combination of smokiness, fruitiness, and moderate heat, aji amarillo is the heart of the dish. This chili adds an unmistakable depth to the sauce, which is beautifully balanced by creamy ingredients like milk, cream, or evaporated milk to create a luscious texture. It’s no wonder this dish feels both indulgent and comforting, ideal for family meals or special occasions.

Why It’s a Staple in Peruvian Cuisine

Peruvian cuisine is a delightful fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and Asian influences, and Churu Chicken Amarillo perfectly captures that multicultural essence. This dish features bold spices, fresh ingredients, and a richness that makes it an all-time favorite across Peruvian households. In Peru, aji amarillo is considered a cornerstone ingredient, used in many traditional recipes, including stews, soups, and sauces. Much like tacos in Mexico or pasta in Italy, aji amarillo dishes are part of Peru’s culinary identity, connecting generations through shared flavors and traditions. For more inspiration, check out this detailed Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe to explore additional tips and variations.

It’s not just about the flavor, though. This dish also represents the versatility and resourcefulness of Peruvian cooking. Simple ingredients are transformed into something extraordinary, showcasing the creativity embedded in the country’s food culture.

International Appeal

What makes Churu Chicken Amarillo so popular outside of Peru? For starters, it’s the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. The recipe uses accessible ingredients that even novice cooks can handle, yet the dish feels like an exotic escape to the Andes. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. You can dial up the spice for heat lovers or tone it down for a family-friendly version, making it a versatile choice for any dinner table.

Moreover, as global interest in South American chicken dishes grows, Churu Chicken Amarillo has found a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Whether served with rice, plantains, or even pasta, the vibrant sauce and tender chicken deliver a flavor experience that feels like a celebration.

For an even richer culinary adventure, discover the essentials of almond sauce and its versatility in recipes.

Ingredients for Churu Chicken Amarillo

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy amarillo chicken recipe come to life.

For the Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Amarillo Sauce

• 3 tablespoons aji amarillo paste (or substitute with 1 teaspoon turmeric and 1/2 teaspoon paprika if unavailable)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon sugar (to balance spice)

Optional Garnishes and Sides

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Cooked white rice or quinoa
• Fried plantains

Ingredient Highlights

• Aji Amarillo Paste: This is the star ingredient, giving the dish its signature flavor. You can find it in Latin grocery stores or online. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own paste using yellow chili peppers.
• Olive Oil: A key ingredient for sautéing that adds depth.
• Cream: Balances the spice and makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.

Pair your chicken amarillo with steamed corn delights for a complete Latin-inspired meal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Churu Chicken Amarillo

A. Preparing the Chicken for Amarillo Sauce

1. Season the Chicken:
   • Rub the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

B. Making the Creamy Aji Amarillo Sauce

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
   • Add garlic and cumin, cooking until fragrant (1 minute).
2. Incorporate the Paste:
   • Stir in the aji amarillo paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
3. Add the Liquids:
   • Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
   • Stir in the cream and mix until smooth.

C. Combining Chicken with Yellow Amarillo Sauce

1. Return the Chicken:
   • Add the chicken back to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it.
   • Simmer for 5 minutes until the flavors meld.
2. Adjust and Serve:
   • Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt or sugar if needed.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or plantains.

Tips for Perfect Churu Chicken Amarillo

• Avoid Overcooking: Chicken thighs are forgiving, but breasts can dry out. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy (165°F internal temp).
• Balancing Spice: If the sauce is too spicy, add an extra splash of cream or a pinch of sugar.
• Make Ahead: The sauce can be made a day in advance and reheated when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Classic Pairings

• Serve with fluffy white rice or steamed corn delights. The creamy sauce complements the mild and slightly sweet flavors of these sides perfectly.
• Add a side of fried plantains for a sweet contrast. They’re easy to prepare and bring a delightful caramelized note to the dish.
• Pair with a light garden salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette to add freshness and balance.

Creative Variations

• Fusion Wraps: Use the chicken and sauce in tortillas for a spicy Peruvian taco. Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of queso fresco for a complete meal.
• Vegan Option: Swap chicken for roasted cauliflower or tofu. Roast the cauliflower florets until golden and tender before tossing them in the amarillo sauce for a plant-based delight.
• Over Pasta: Pour the amarillo sauce over cooked fettuccine or spaghetti for a Peruvian-Italian fusion twist.
• Grilled Chicken: Instead of pan-seared, grill the chicken to add a smoky charred flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy amarillo sauce.
• Rice Bowls: Layer the chicken and sauce over a bed of cilantro-lime rice, and add black beans, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream for a hearty bowl meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that offers a delightful escape into the vibrant flavors of Peru. It’s quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve to guests during a special gathering. Plus, the bold and aromatic flavors will instantly transport you straight to the heart of Peruvian cuisine, making every bite an adventure for your taste buds.

The creamy, luscious sauce and tender, perfectly cooked chicken come together to create a comforting combination that feels like a warm hug on your plate. Each spoonful bursts with a balance of smoky, fruity, and spicy notes from the aji amarillo, all mellowed by the rich creaminess of the sauce. This harmony of flavors makes it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, treating your family, or hosting a dinner party, this recipe delivers every single time. It’s not just delicious—it’s versatile too. You can easily adjust the spice levels to cater to sensitive palates or kick it up a notch for those who love heat. The choice of sides, from classic rice to roasted vegetables or even pasta, makes it adaptable to a variety of preferences.

And if that’s not enough, this dish offers the flexibility to get creative. Serve it in tacos for a Peruvian fusion twist, or try pairing it with plantains for a sweet and savory balance. No matter how you make it, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. So go ahead, savor the richness, and let it bring joy to your table!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion: Ready to Try It?

Now it’s your turn to bring this dish to life and enjoy a slice of Peruvian culture right in your own kitchen. Whether it’s your first time experimenting with aji amarillo or you’re a seasoned pro in the world of Latin American cuisine, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful experience.

Don’t forget to share your results in the comments section and let us know how it turned out. Was it the creamy sauce, the tender chicken, or the balance of spices that stole the show for you? Plus, a quick tip—snap a photo of your creation and post it on social media with the hashtag #ChuruChickenAmarillo. You might just inspire someone else to take a culinary journey to Peru!

Invite your family, friends, or loved ones to try this recipe, and make it a memorable meal together. Food has a way of bringing people closer, and this dish is no exception. Buen provecho!