Churu Chicken Amarillo is a vibrant dish that brings together bold flavors and comforting textures in every bite. Originating from the rich culinary traditions of Peru, this recipe highlights tender chicken simmered in a creamy yellow pepper sauce that’s both spicy and tangy. It’s a perfect blend of heat and zest that awakens the palate without overwhelming it.
We love how this dish transforms simple ingredients into a colorful feast that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for any dinner gathering. Whether you’re craving something new or looking to explore Peruvian cuisine, Churu Chicken Amarillo offers a delicious way to spice up your weeknight meals. Let’s dive into making this flavorful classic that’s sure to become a favorite in our recipe collection.
Ingredients
To make our Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe shine with authentic Peruvian flavors, we use a combination of fresh and aromatic ingredients. Below are the essential components broken down for clarity and ease of preparation.
Marinade Ingredients
Our marinade infuses the chicken with bold and tangy flavors that form the foundation of this vibrant dish.
- 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, cut into chunks)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Sauce Ingredients
The sauce is the heart of Churu Chicken Amarillo, combining creamy texture with the distinct bright heat of Peruvian yellow peppers.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3-4 yellow chili peppers | Seeded and chopped | Use Ají Amarillo if possible |
| 1 medium onion | Finely diced | |
| 2 cloves garlic | Minced | |
| 1 cup chicken broth | Preferably low sodium | |
| ½ cup evaporated milk | For creaminess | |
| 2 tablespoons vegetable oil | For sautéing | |
| 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro | Chopped | For garnish and infusion |
Additional Ingredients
These ingredients complete the dish and add texture and finishing touches.
- 2 medium potatoes (peeled, boiled, and sliced – optional side)
- Cooked white rice (to serve alongside)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (to accentuate flavors at serving)
Each of these elements contributes crucial layers that bring our Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe to life with its characteristic spicy, tangy, and creamy taste.
Equipment Needed
To prepare Churu Chicken Amarillo perfectly, having the right equipment is essential for both efficiency and optimal results. Below is a list of the critical tools we recommend using throughout the cooking process.
- Large Mixing Bowl
For marinating the chicken thighs with garlic, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, a spacious bowl allows for even coating and easy tossing.
- Blender or Food Processor
Crafting the creamy yellow chili pepper sauce demands a smooth, velvety texture which a blender or food processor achieves best. It helps emulsify ingredients like yellow chili peppers, onions, garlic, chicken broth, and evaporated milk.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
We need a sturdy skillet to brown the chicken and later simmer it in the rich sauce. Opt for a heavy-bottom pan that distributes heat evenly.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Stirring the sauce and turning the chicken gently requires a utensil that won’t scratch the pan and allows controlled mixing.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board
Precise chopping of ingredients like garlic, onions, and cilantro is key to releasing fresh flavors. A sharp knife and stable board enhance safety and efficiency.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of spices, liquids, and seasoning components keep the flavor balanced and authentic.
- Pot or Rice Cooker (optional)
For perfectly cooked white rice to accompany the dish, we recommend either a pot with a tight lid or an electric rice cooker.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Marinating chicken for even flavor coating |
| Blender/Food Processor | Creating creamy yellow chili pepper sauce |
| Large Skillet | Browning & simmering chicken |
| Wooden Spoon/Silicone Spatula | Stirring without scratching pan |
| Chef’s Knife | Chopping ingredients precisely |
| Cutting Board | Stable surface for safe chopping |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Pot/Rice Cooker | Cooking white rice |
Having this equipment ready before starting ensures a smooth cooking process and brings out the best in our vibrant Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, thorough prep work is crucial to ensure our Churu Chicken Amarillo turns out perfectly flavorful and tender. Let’s get organized and prepared step-by-step.
Preparing the Chicken
Start with 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs for moistness and richness. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere better and achieve a nice sear later. Trim off excess fat or skin remnants for even cooking. We recommend cutting larger thighs into uniform pieces about 3 inches wide to ensure they cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
Making the Marinade
Our marinade infuses the chicken with authentic Peruvian zest. In a large mixing bowl combine:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Mix these ingredients well, then add the prepared chicken pieces. Toss until each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to overnight to deepen the flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Lime juice | From 1 lime | Freshly squeezed |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground |
“Marinating is the secret to tender, deeply flavored chicken in our Churu Chicken Amarillo.”
Preparing the Sauce
The sauce is the heart of Churu Chicken Amarillo, balancing creamy texture with vibrant heat. Gather:
- 4 yellow chili peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
First, in a blender or food processor, blend the yellow chili peppers with chicken broth until smooth. Set aside. In a skillet heat the vegetable oil over medium heat, then sauté the onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 4 minutes. Slowly add the chili pepper mixture and simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors. Reduce heat, stir in evaporated milk, and keep warm until ready to combine with the marinated chicken.
This prep creates a silky, spicy, and creamy sauce that defines our dish’s signature taste and texture.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create an authentic and flavorful Churu Chicken Amarillo that bursts with vibrant Peruvian taste in every bite.
Marinating the Chicken
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels and trimming any excess fat for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the following marinade ingredients:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off before placing in the skillet.
- Sear each side of the chicken thighs for approximately 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Transfer the browned chicken to a plate and set aside, preserving the flavorful crust formed during searing.
Preparing the Amarillo Sauce
- In a blender or food processor, combine:
- 4 yellow chili peppers, seeded and chopped (adjust according to heat preference)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Blend until smooth and set aside.
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.
- Sauté 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and 2 cloves garlic, minced, for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Carefully pour the blended yellow chili mixture into the skillet.
- Stir and cook for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Gradually add 1 cup evaporated milk while stirring continuously to create a creamy, silky sauce.
- Simmer the sauce gently for another 5 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
Combining Chicken with Sauce
- Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the amarillo sauce.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt or lime juice as needed.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot alongside white rice and boiled potatoes for an authentic presentation.
| Step | Key Action | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinating the Chicken | Refrigerate the marinated chicken | 30 min to overnight | Cold |
| Cooking the Chicken | Sear chicken in oil | 4-5 min per side | Medium-high |
| Preparing Amarillo Sauce | Sauté aromatics, simmer sauce | 10-15 min | Medium |
| Combining & Simmering | Cook chicken in sauce | 15-20 min | Low |
Pro Tip: For the richest flavor, do not rush the marinating step. The longer the chicken soaks in the seasoning blend, the more tender and flavorful Churu Chicken Amarillo will be.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy the vibrant flavors of Churu Chicken Amarillo, we recommend pairing it with side dishes that complement its creamy, spicy, and tangy profile. Here are some excellent options that enhance the overall meal:
Accompaniments for Churu Chicken Amarillo
- Steamed White Rice
The neutral taste and fluffy texture of white rice balance the richness of the yellow pepper sauce perfectly. It also helps soak up the delicious Amarillo sauce.
- Boiled Potatoes
Traditional boiled potatoes add a subtle earthiness that pairs well with the creamy sauce. Slice them and arrange around the chicken for a classic presentation.
- Fresh Cilantro Garnish
Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top to add a fresh herbal note that brightens the dish visually and in flavor.
- Lime Wedges
Serve lime wedges on the side for added acidity. A squeeze of lime juice cuts through the richness and enhances the tangy undertones of the sauce.
Beverage Pairings
- Chilled White Wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the spicy creaminess without overwhelming the palate.
- Light Beer with crisp, clean flavors balances the dish’s heat and richness for casual occasions.
Recommended Plating Tips
- Place a generous serving of steamed rice in the center of the plate.
- Lay the seared chicken thighs over or next to the rice.
- Spoon the golden-yellow Amarillo sauce evenly over the chicken and rice.
- Arrange boiled potato slices on the side.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and place lime wedges for a finishing touch.
| Serving Element | Purpose | Flavor/Texture Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed White Rice | Base starch | Neutral, fluffy, absorbs sauce |
| Boiled Potatoes | Traditional accompaniment | Earthy, mild, soft |
| Fresh Cilantro | Garnish | Bright, herbal |
| Lime Wedges | Flavor enhancer | Acidic, refreshing |
By combining these Serving Suggestions, we ensure every bite of Churu Chicken Amarillo delivers contrast and harmony — a truly memorable Peruvian dining experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Churu Chicken Amarillo ahead of time makes serving this vibrant Peruvian dish effortless and preserves its rich flavors.
- Marinate the Chicken Overnight:
For deeper flavor and tender texture, marinate the chicken thighs in the garlic, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper mixture for at least 8 hours or overnight. This step allows the spices to fully penetrate the meat.
- Prepare the Amarillo Sauce in Advance:
We recommend blending the yellow chili peppers with chicken broth and sautéed aromatics ahead of time. Store the sauce mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before cooking, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stove and stir in evaporated milk for the creamy finish.
- Cook and Store Separately:
You can sear the marinated chicken and let it cool. Store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers. They will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat together on medium heat just before serving to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture and chicken’s tenderness.
- Freeze for Longer Storage:
If you want to keep the dish longer, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately. Use freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
| Task | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Marination | Refrigerate | 8–12 hours (overnight) | Enhances tenderness and flavor |
| Amarillo Sauce Preparation | Refrigerate | Up to 24 hours | Reheat gently, add evaporated milk before use |
| Cooked Chicken & Sauce | Refrigerate | Up to 2 days | Store separately, reheat together |
| Cooked Chicken & Sauce | Freeze | Up to 1 month | Thaw overnight before reheating |
“Allowing the chicken to marinate longer and preparing the sauce in advance are our keys to a flavorful and stress-free meal.”
We find these make-ahead tips invaluable for hosting or busy weeknights, keeping your kitchen organized while ensuring every bite bursts with authentic Peruvian heat and creaminess.
Storage and Reheating
To preserve the vibrant flavors and creamy texture of Churu Chicken Amarillo, proper storage and reheating are essential. Follow these steps for the best results.
Storage Tips
- Cool the dish completely before storing to prevent condensation that can dilute the sauce.
- Store the chicken and Amarillo sauce separately in airtight containers. This prevents the sauce from overpowering the chicken or becoming watery.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking for optimal food safety.
- Use within 3 to 4 days for fresh flavor and safety.
- For longer storage, freeze both components separately in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Storage Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Airtight plastic or glass | 3-4 days | Keep chicken and sauce separate |
| Freezer | Freezer-safe container or bag | Up to 3 months | Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating |
Reheating Instructions
- Thaw frozen chicken and sauce in the refrigerator overnight for even reheating.
- Reheat sauce gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess.
- Warm chicken separately to avoid overcooking. Use the stove, microwave, or oven with low heat.
- Combine warmed chicken with sauce just before serving.
- Avoid boiling the sauce during reheating to maintain its silky texture and vibrant flavor.
“Reheating in two stages keeps the Churu Chicken Amarillo’s flavors intact and preserves its creamy, spicy character.”
Quick Reheat Guide
| Step | Method | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Thaw frozen components | Refrigerator | 8-12 hours |
| Reheat Amarillo sauce | Stovetop, low heat | 5-7 minutes, stir often |
| Warm chicken | Microwave/oven | 2-4 minutes or 10 minutes at 350°F |
Following these Storage and Reheating tips ensures that every bite of our Churu Chicken Amarillo remains as flavorful and comforting as when freshly cooked.
Conclusion
Churu Chicken Amarillo offers a unique blend of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors that bring Peruvian cuisine right to our table. Its vibrant sauce and tender chicken make it a standout dish that’s both approachable and impressive. With simple prep and versatile serving options, it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
By mastering this recipe and following the tips for marinating, cooking, and storing, we can enjoy authentic Peruvian taste anytime. Whether for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, this dish promises to delight and satisfy with every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Churu Chicken Amarillo is a Peruvian dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a creamy, spicy yellow pepper sauce with tangy flavors. It combines simple ingredients into an impressive, flavorful meal.
What ingredients are essential for authentic Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Key ingredients include chicken thighs, yellow chili peppers, garlic, lime juice, cumin, paprika, onion, chicken broth, evaporated milk, and vegetable oil for the sauce, with optional boiled potatoes, rice, cilantro, and lime wedges.
How do you prepare the chicken for this dish?
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, pat dry, and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight with spices and lime juice to ensure tender, flavorful meat.
What equipment is needed to cook Churu Chicken Amarillo?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, blender or food processor, large skillet, and measuring tools to prepare and cook the dish efficiently.
Can Churu Chicken Amarillo be made ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken overnight and prepare the sauce in advance. Store cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers and reheat gently before serving.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Traditional accompaniments include steamed white rice, boiled potatoes, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges to balance and enhance the dish’s flavors.
How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Cool completely, refrigerate chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers within two hours, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat sauce gently on the stove and warm chicken separately to maintain texture.
What tips improve the flavor of Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Allow longer marination times for deeper flavor and use fresh yellow chili peppers for authentic heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime for added brightness.