When it comes to Peruvian cuisine, one dish that always stands out is Churu Chicken Amarillo. This delightful recipe features tender chicken in a rich, creamy yellow pepper sauce—making it a comforting and flavorful dish that will transport your taste buds straight to Peru. Whether you’re making this at home or enjoying it at a local restaurant in Lima, the Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe is sure to impress.
In this article, we will break down the steps to create the perfect Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe, as well as share tips on how to bring a taste of Lima into your kitchen with this unique and savory dish.
If you’re hungry for more creative and delicious recipe ideas, be sure to check out our collection of easy-to-make recipes, where you’ll find a variety of dishes to suit every craving and occasion!
What is Churu Chicken Amarillo?
Churu Chicken Amarillo is a traditional Peruvian dish known for its bold flavors and unique use of ají amarillo (yellow chili pepper). The sauce is the star of this dish, as it combines the heat from the peppers with a creamy base made from milk and cheese, creating a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
The dish is often served with rice, potatoes, or even bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Whether enjoyed at a restaurant in Lima or made at home, Churu Chicken Amarillo is a must-try for anyone seeking to explore the rich culinary culture of Peru.
Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to try making Churu Chicken Amarillo yourself? Here’s an easy-to-follow recipe that will guide you through the process, from start to finish.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup of ají amarillo paste (or fresh yellow chili peppers if you can find them)
- 1/2 cup of evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of queso fresco (or feta cheese)
- 1 tablespoon of cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 6-8 minutes per side. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become translucent. Add the ají amarillo paste (or fresh peppers), and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Creamy Mixture: Reduce the heat to low and add the evaporated milk, heavy cream, and queso fresco. Stir the mixture continuously to make a smooth, creamy sauce. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the sauce. Coat the chicken in the creamy ají amarillo sauce and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This will allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is fully coated in the sauce, sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor. Serve your Churu Chicken Amarillo over a bed of fluffy white rice for the perfect meal.
Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe en Lima: The Local Twist
If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Lima, you’ll want to experience the authentic flavors of Churu Chicken Amarillo made by local chefs. While the basic ingredients and preparation remain the same, many restaurants in Lima add their own creative twist to the dish.
What Makes Lima’s Churu Chicken Amarillo Special?
- Fresh Local Ingredients: In Lima, ají amarillo is often used in its freshest form. You may find that local chefs use a combination of fresh peppers and the classic paste to bring out even more vibrant flavors in the sauce.
- Unique Cheese Blends: Many Lima restaurants will use a variety of Peruvian cheeses, such as queso fresco or queso blanco, to make the sauce even richer and more decadent.
- Accompaniments: In Lima, Churu Chicken Amarillo is often served with traditional Peruvian sides, like papas a la huancaína (potatoes in a spicy cheese sauce) or tacu tacu (a rice and beans mixture). These sides complement the dish and add even more depth to the meal.
If you find yourself in Lima, take the time to visit local restaurants that specialize in traditional Churu Chicken Amarillo recipes. It’s the perfect way to taste this Peruvian classic while enjoying the vibrant culture and cuisine of the city.
Tips for Perfecting Your Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, use less ají amarillo paste or remove the seeds from the fresh peppers before blending. If you’re a fan of heat, add a little extra paste or include some seeds for more spice.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are commonly used, using bone-in chicken thighs can add extra flavor and richness to the dish. The bones help to infuse the sauce with even more depth.
- Make it Vegan: To make a vegan version of this dish, swap the chicken for tofu or seitan and use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk. You can also opt for a plant-based cheese substitute.
Why You Should Try Churu Chicken Amarillo
Churu Chicken Amarillo offers a perfect balance of rich, creamy sauce and the heat from ají amarillo peppers. Whether you’re cooking it in your kitchen or trying it at a restaurant in Lima, this dish is a delightful introduction to the vibrant world of Peruvian cuisine. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also simple to make and adaptable to suit your taste preferences.
Next time you’re craving something new for dinner, consider making Churu Chicken Amarillo. It’s a flavorful, comforting dish that will add a touch of Peruvian tradition to your meal rotation. If you’re looking for more delicious and easy-to-follow recipes, be sure to check out our Recipe Collection for even more meal ideas that are sure to satisfy your cravings!
If you’re looking for more delicious and easy-to-follow recipes, be sure to check out our Recipes Collection for even more meal ideas that are sure to satisfy your cravings!