Easy Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe
Vibrant Churu Chicken Amarillo Ready in 45 Minutes
Savor a bold, creamy Churu Chicken Amarillo, crafted by Oliver & Natalia with over 15 years of culinary expertise, featuring tender chicken in a tangy Amarillo sauce.
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Introduction to Churu Chicken Amarillo
Churu Chicken Amarillo is a Peruvian-inspired dish that combines succulent chicken breasts with a luxurious, mildly spicy Amarillo chili sauce, delivering a unique and unforgettable taste. Rooted in the rich culinary traditions of South America, it blends authentic Peruvian flavors with modern cooking techniques, offering a perfect balance of heritage and innovation. This Peruvian chicken recipe is ideal for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Learn more about the vibrant world of Peruvian cuisine.
Origins and History
Inspired by Peru’s culinary legacy, Churu Chicken Amarillo draws from dishes like Aji de Gallina, known for their creamy, pepper-based sauces. The Amarillo pepper, a staple in Peruvian cooking, gives the dish its signature yellow hue and mild heat. “Churu” may reflect a regional or creative variation, emphasizing the dish’s vibrant, sauce-driven character.
Unique Flavor Profile
The Churu Chicken Amarillo offers a burst of flavors: juicy chicken marinated in warm spices like cumin and garlic, paired with a tangy, creamy Amarillo sauce infused with aji amarillo paste. Fresh cilantro, onions, and peppers create a savory, aromatic experience that’s both comforting and exciting, making every bite a delight.
Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tsp | Salt | – |
| 1/2 tsp | Black pepper | – |
| 1 tsp | Garlic powder | – |
| 1 tsp | Ground cumin | – |
| 2 tbsp | Lime juice | – |
Amarillo Sauce Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 2 tbsp | Olive oil | – |
| 1 large | Onion | Finely chopped |
| 4 cloves | Garlic | Minced |
| 2 | Amarillo peppers (or yellow bell peppers) | Seeded, chopped |
| 1 tbsp | Aji amarillo paste | Adjust for spice |
| 1 cup | Chicken broth | Low-sodium |
| 1/2 cup | Evaporated milk | – |
| 1/2 cup | Coconut milk | Optional, tropical variation |
| 1 tsp | Ground turmeric | – |
| 1 tsp | Ground coriander | – |
| 1/4 cup | Fresh cilantro | Chopped |
| 1/2 tsp | Salt | Adjust to taste |
Main Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | Chicken breasts | Boneless, skinless |
| 2 tbsp | Olive oil | For searing |
| – | Cauliflower or chickpeas | Vegetarian option |
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Rinse 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and place in a bowl. Combine 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, and 2 tbsp lime juice in a small bowl; coat the chicken evenly with the marinade and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature (or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor).
- Prepare Amarillo Sauce: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped large onion and sauté until golden and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 2 chopped Amarillo peppers (or yellow bell peppers) and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Add 1 tbsp aji amarillo paste, 1 tsp ground turmeric, and 1 tsp ground coriander; cook for 2 minutes to release the spices’ aromas. Pour in 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth and simmer for 10 minutes. Blend the mixture until smooth using a blender or immersion blender, then return to the pan. Stir in 1/2 cup evaporated milk (or coconut milk for a tropical twist) and 1/2 tsp salt, adjusting to taste, and keep the sauce warm over low heat.
- Sear Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy on the exterior, ensuring it’s not fully cooked through at this stage.
- Simmer: Pour the prepared Amarillo sauce over the seared chicken in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is tender. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro to finish the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the chicken breasts, spooning the creamy Amarillo sauce generously over the top. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or grilled vegetables from our Salads collection for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with Sides
Elevate your amarillo sauce chicken with complementary sides. Serve over fluffy steamed rice to soak up the creamy, spicy sauce, or pair with mashed potatoes for a comforting, hearty contrast. A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing balance, while grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers bring a smoky depth. For a tropical twist, try a side inspired by our Mango Cheesecake Spring Rolls.
Plating Techniques
Create an inviting presentation by placing the chicken breast on a white plate, generously spooning the vibrant yellow Amarillo sauce over the top to showcase its creamy texture. Arrange sides neatly around the chicken, ensuring a balanced color palette. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro and a lime wedge for a pop of color and zest, drizzling a thin stream of extra sauce for an appetizing, restaurant-quality look.
Health Benefits
Nutritional Content
This tropical chicken recipe is packed with nutrition. Chicken breasts provide lean protein for muscle health and satiety, while Amarillo peppers offer vitamin C to boost immunity. Onions and garlic supply antioxidants to combat inflammation, and olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. For more on the benefits of chili peppers, visit Healthline.
Healthier Cooking Alternatives
For a lighter dish, bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of searing to reduce fat content, or grill it for a smoky flavor. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt intake, incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro for flavor without calories, and opt for minimal oil or cooking spray to keep the dish heart-healthy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking Chicken
Prevent dry chicken by using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) without overcooking. Sear on medium heat to avoid burning the exterior while keeping the interior juicy, and simmer gently in the sauce to maintain tenderness.
Using Incorrect Spices
Stick to the authentic blend of ground cumin, turmeric, coriander, and aji amarillo paste to capture the dish’s Peruvian essence. Ensure spices are fresh for maximum potency, and mix them evenly into the marinade and sauce to avoid uneven flavor distribution.
Variations of the Recipe
Vegetarian Options
Transform this into a vegetarian dish by replacing chicken with cauliflower florets, chickpeas, or paneer cubes, cooking them in the same Amarillo sauce to absorb its vibrant flavors, maintaining the dish’s creamy, spicy character.
Spice Level Adjustments
Customize the heat to your preference. For a mild flavor, reduce the aji amarillo paste to 1 tsp or substitute with additional yellow bell peppers. Follow the recipe for a medium spice level. For a spicier kick, increase the paste to 1.5 tbsp or add a pinch of fresh chopped chilies to the sauce.
Conclusion
The Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe is a vibrant, Peruvian-inspired dish that brings bold, creamy, and spicy flavors to your table in just 45 minutes. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this tropical chicken recipe combines tender chicken with a rich Amarillo sauce, with an optional coconut milk twist for a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* flair. For more delicious recipes, explore our Chicken Recipes or try a refreshing coffee pairing. Happy cooking!
