The Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe combines the rich, creamy flavors of Peruvian cuisine with tender chicken and a vibrant yellow sauce made from aji amarillo peppers. This dish is a harmonious blend of bold spices, creamy textures, and zesty undertones, making it perfect for special occasions or comforting family dinners. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or indulge in something extraordinary, this recipe offers a unique fusion of exotic flavors and homey satisfaction. Let’s explore how to create this unforgettable dish step by step.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lime juice for marinating
The churu chicken amarillo recipe Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for enhanced color)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread
- Sliced avocado (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate and Cook the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lime juice (if using).
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken pieces. For deeper flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
2: Prepare the Aji Amarillo Sauce
- In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the aji amarillo paste and cook for 2 minutes to release its aroma and flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra depth of flavor.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the evaporated milk or heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, turmeric (if using), and sugar (if needed to balance the spice). Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to ensure it is well-coated.
- Allow the dish to simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors together and ensure the chicken is thoroughly heated.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and optional toppings like avocado slices or toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, fluffy quinoa, or warm crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips for Perfect Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe
- Adjust the Heat: Aji amarillo paste adds a mild to medium heat. For a spicier kick, add extra aji amarillo or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic, high-quality aji amarillo paste, and fresh lime juice will elevate the dish’s flavors.
- Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water) during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be prepared up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before adding the chicken to save time.
- Versatility: Try this sauce with other proteins like shrimp, pork, or tofu for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with sautéed vegetables, roasted sweet potatoes, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a balanced meal.
- Drinks: Complement this dish with a refreshing pisco sour, a chilled Sauvignon Blanc, or a light lager beer.
- Toppings: Add sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or crumbled queso fresco for extra richness and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is aji amarillo?
Aji amarillo is a Peruvian yellow chili pepper known for its fruity, slightly spicy flavor. It’s a staple in Peruvian cuisine, often used to add depth, color, and warmth to various dishes.
2. Can I substitute churu chicken amarillo paste?
Yes! If you can’t find aji amarillo paste, use a blend of yellow bell pepper and a mild chili paste like harissa or sriracha to approximate the flavor.
3. Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, tofu, pork, or even fish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the protein is perfectly cooked.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid overcooking.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! You can freeze the chicken and sauce together in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently before serving.
Related Recipes
- Chorizo Argentino: Try our Chorizo Argentinofor another classic Peruvian dish.
Conclusion
The Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe is a bold and flavorful dish that captures the vibrant essence of Peruvian cuisine. With its creamy, golden sauce, tender chicken, and rich spices, this dish is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Peru. Try it today and bring a taste of South America to your table!
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