Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe: A Flavorful Journey to Peru

If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that bursts with flavor, look no further than the Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe. This Peruvian delight combines tender chicken with the vibrant flavors of aji amarillo, a yellow chili pepper that adds a unique kick to the dish. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it also offers a delightful taste of Peru right in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

What is Churu Chicken Amarillo?

Churu Chicken Amarillo is a traditional Peruvian dish that showcases the aji amarillo pepper, known for its fruity flavor and moderate heat. This dish is often served with rice and is a staple in many Peruvian households. The combination of spices and the creamy sauce makes it a comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs or 680 g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth (240 ml)
• 1 cup aji amarillo paste (240 g)
• 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

For the Marinade:

• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional:

• Cooked rice or quinoa for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor).

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the aji amarillo paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
2. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
3. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the Churu Chicken Amarillo hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
2. Pair it with cooked rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Tips

• Aji Amarillo Paste: If you can’t find aji amarillo paste, you can substitute it with a mix of yellow bell pepper and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Creaminess: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Chicken Alternatives: This recipe works well with chicken thighs for a juicier option.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage Advice

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the Churu Chicken Amarillo for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor.

Complementary Dishes and Beverage Pairings

To enhance your meal, consider serving the Churu Chicken Amarillo with:

• Side Dishes: Peruvian-style corn salad or roasted vegetables.
• Beverages: A chilled glass of Pisco Sour or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

FAQ: Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe

1. What is aji amarillo, and where can I find it?

Aji amarillo is a yellow chili pepper native to Peru, known for its fruity flavor and moderate heat. You can find aji amarillo paste in Latin American grocery stores, specialty food stores, or online. If you can’t find it, you can substitute it with a mix of yellow bell pepper and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

3. Is this recipe spicy?

The spiciness of the Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe can vary depending on the amount of aji amarillo paste you use. Aji amarillo has a moderate heat level, but if you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of paste or substitute it with a milder pepper.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Churu Chicken Amarillo ahead of time. Cook the dish as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

5. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make the recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. This will maintain the creaminess of the sauce while keeping it suitable for those with dairy allergies.

6. What can I serve with Churu Chicken Amarillo?

Churu Chicken Amarillo pairs well with cooked rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of Peruvian corn salad or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

7. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Churu Chicken Amarillo. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the chicken.

9. What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

You can try several variations, such as:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor.

10. Can I use fresh aji amarillo peppers instead of paste?

Yes, you can use fresh aji amarillo peppers if you can find them. Blend the peppers with a little water to create a paste. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly from the store-bought paste.

11. What is the best way to store leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo?

Store leftover Churu Chicken Amarillo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

12. Can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! This recipe can easily be scaled up or down. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, and adjust the cooking time as necessary.

13. What beverages pair well with Churu Chicken Amarillo?

Churu Chicken Amarillo pairs well with a chilled glass of Pisco Sour, a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or even a refreshing beer. The acidity in these beverages complements the richness of the dish.

14. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Churu Chicken Amarillo is great for meal prep! You can make a large batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just store it in individual containers for easy reheating.

Conclusion

The Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe is a fantastic way to bring the vibrant flavors of Peru into your home. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share your results! What variations did you try? Let us know in the comments below!