Best Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Churu Chicken Amarillo is a dish that perfectly balances comfort and flavor. The combination of tender chicken, a rich and creamy Amarillo sauce, and a generous layer of melted cheese makes this recipe a true crowd-pleaser. The vibrant yellow color of the Amarillo sauce, derived from the use of Aji Amarillo peppers, not only adds visual appeal but also contributes a unique fruity and slightly spicy flavor profile. This dish is not just delicious; it’s also a great way to introduce new flavors to your cooking repertoire.

Craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor? Look no further than Churu Chicken Amarillo! This Peruvian-inspired delight combines succulent chicken breasts with a luxuriously creamy Amarillo sauce, all topped with a generous blanket of melted cheese. The star of the show is the vibrant yellow Amarillo sauce, its color and unique flavor stemming from the Aji Amarillo pepper. This pepper lends a fruity, slightly spicy note that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, Churu Chicken Amarillo is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the rich and diverse world of Peruvian cuisine. So, ditch the same old chicken recipes and embark on a culinary adventure with Churu Chicken Amarillo! This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to introduce new flavors to your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients for Churu Chicken Amarillo

Before we start, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the final taste and texture of this dish. To make the best Churu Chicken Amarillo, using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key.

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The foundation of our dish. Choose chicken breasts that are plump and have a good color. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Consider using organic, free-range chicken for the best taste and texture in your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken. Olive oil adds a subtle, fruity note and prevents sticking. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor and health benefits when creating your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• 1 tsp Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. Sea salt or kosher salt are great choices for seasoning your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Adds a hint of spiciness and complements the other seasonings. Freshly ground black pepper will provide the most aromatic and flavorful result in the Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder: Adds a savory, aromatic touch. Ensure your garlic powder is fresh for the best flavor in your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• 1/2 tsp Onion Powder: Complements the garlic powder, adding another layer of savory depth. As with the garlic powder, fresh onion powder is best for making Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• 1/4 tsp Paprika: For a touch of color and mild smoky flavor. Smoked paprika can also be used for a more pronounced smoky taste in Churu Chicken Amarillo.

For the Amarillo Sauce:

• 2 tbsp Butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce. Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the salt level in the Amarillo sauce.
• 1/2 Cup Chopped Onion: Provides a base flavor for the sauce. Yellow or white onions work best. Dice the onions finely for even flavor distribution in the Amarillo sauce.
• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Adds a pungent aroma and flavor. Mince finely for even distribution. Freshly minced garlic is essential for an authentic Amarillo sauce.
• 1 Jar (about 12 oz) Aji Amarillo Paste: This is the key ingredient for our Amarillo sauce. It brings the unique fruity and slightly spicy flavor characteristic of this dish. Aji Amarillo paste can be found in Latin American grocery stores or online. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make your own Aji Amarillo paste!
• 1 Cup Chicken Broth: Thins the sauce and adds depth of flavor. Low-sodium broth is preferred to control the salt content. Homemade chicken broth will add the richest flavor to your Amarillo sauce.
• 1 Cup Heavy Cream: Contributes to the creamy, luxurious texture of the sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option. For a richer flavor, use full-fat heavy cream in this Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe.
• 1/2 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt more smoothly into the Amarillo sauce.
• 1/4 Cup Fresh Cilantro, Chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note. Fresh cilantro is a must for the vibrant flavors of Churu Chicken Amarillo.

For the Cheese Topping:

• 1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a melty, stretchy texture and mild flavor. Part-skim mozzarella will melt well while keeping the dish lighter.
• 1/2 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharper flavor that complements the mozzarella. Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend. A sharp cheddar cheese will provide the most flavor to the Churu Chicken Amarillo.

Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for our Churu Chicken Amarillo: Investing in quality equipment can elevate your cooking experience and ensure consistent results.

• Large Skillet or Frying Pan: For sautéing the chicken and making the sauce. A 12-inch skillet is ideal. A non-stick skillet will prevent the chicken and sauce from sticking while making Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Cutting Board: For preparing your vegetables and chicken. Make sure it’s clean and sanitized. Use a separate cutting board for raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination when preparing Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Sharp Knife: For chopping onions, garlic, and cilantro. A good chef’s knife is essential. A well-maintained, sharp knife is safer and more efficient when making Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to consistent results. Using a kitchen scale for measuring can provide even more precise results for your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Whisk: For stirring the sauce and ensuring a smooth consistency. A silicone whisk is gentle on non-stick surfaces and easy to clean after making Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Oven-Safe Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe. Glass or ceramic baking dishes distribute heat evenly, ensuring your Churu Chicken Amarillo cooks perfectly.
• Aluminum Foil: Useful for covering the baking dish, if needed. Reusable silicone covers are an eco-friendly alternative to aluminum foil when preparing Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Grater: For grating the parmesan cheese and other cheeses if you are not using pre-shredded. A microplane grater is ideal for finely grating Parmesan cheese, enhancing its flavor in Churu Chicken Amarillo.

Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your delicious Churu Chicken Amarillo. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you’ll be able to achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. This step is crucial for layering flavors. Ensure the chicken is dry before seasoning to help the spices adhere better for Churu Chicken Amarillo.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oilin a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. Don’t overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety when making Churu Chicken Amarillo.

Making the Amarillo Sauce:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butterover medium heat. Add the chopped onionand cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlicand cook for another minute until fragrant. Cooking the onions and garlic slowly allows their flavors to develop fully in the Amarillo sauce.
2. Add the Aji Amarillo Paste: Stir in the Aji Amarillo pasteand cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to bloom. This step will ensure you get the maximum flavor from the Aji Amarillo paste. Be careful not to burn the paste; keep the heat at medium and stir frequently when making the Amarillo sauce.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the chicken brothand bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy creamand parmesan cheese. Whisk continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together and the parmesan cheese to fully incorporate, thickening the Amarillo sauce.
4. Add Fresh Herbs: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Set the sauce aside for a minute while assembling the baking dish. Adding fresh cilantro at the end preserves its vibrant flavor and color in the Amarillo sauce.

Assembling and Baking:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking of the Churu Chicken Amarillo.
2. Assemble the Dish: Lightly grease the bottom of your oven-safe baking dish. Place the sautéed chicken breasts in a single layer in the baking dish. Greasing the dish prevents the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup easier when making Churu Chicken Amarillo.
3. Pour the Sauce: Evenly pour the Amarillo sauceover the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Coating the chicken thoroughly ensures every bite is flavorful when making Churu Chicken Amarillo.
4. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarellaand cheddar cheeseevenly over the top of the sauce. This layer of cheese will become beautifully melted and bubbly in the oven. Use a generous amount of cheese for the best results when making Churu Chicken Amarillo.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the sauce is bubbly. Monitor the cheese to prevent burning, and adjust baking time as needed when making Churu Chicken Amarillo.
6. Let it Rest: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Resting the dish also prevents the sauce from being too runny when serving your Churu Chicken Amarillo.

Variations for Churu Chicken Amarillo

This recipe is quite versatile, allowing for several variations based on your preferences or dietary needs. Let’s explore a few options:

• Spicier Version: If you enjoy a hotter kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the Amarillo sauce. You can also use a spicier variety of Aji Amarillo paste if available. A dash of hot sauce can also elevate this dish.
• Lighter Version: For a lighter meal, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. Consider using low-fat cheeses as well. Using Greek yogurt as a substitute for heavy cream will also add a tangy flavor to your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and texture. These can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic. Roasting the vegetables beforehand will intensify their flavors in the Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Different Protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, you can use shrimp, turkey breast, or even firm tofu as a substitute. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Ensure the shrimp are deveined and the tofu is pressed to remove excess moisture for best results in this Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure that all ingredients, especially the chicken broth, are certified gluten-free if you’re catering to a gluten-free diet. Using tamari instead of soy sauce will also keep this dish gluten-free while making Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Cheesy Goodness: Try using different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack for a unique flavor profile. Experimenting with different cheese combinations can create exciting variations to your Churu Chicken Amarillo.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation

Churu Chicken Amarillo is a visually appealing dish, but a little extra effort can make it even more enticing. Here are some ideas:

• Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a few extra shavings of Parmesan cheese just before serving. A sprinkle of chopped green onions can also add a pop of color to your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a side of white rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli, also make a great pairing. Consider serving your Churu Chicken Amarillo with a side of Peruvian-style rice for an authentic experience.
• Bread: Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for enjoying alongside the chicken, so you don’t miss any of that yummy sauce. A side of warm, crusty bread is essential for soaking up every last bit of the delicious Amarillo sauce.
• Presentation: Serve the Churu Chicken Amarillo in individual portions on a plate for an elegant touch. A drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze can also add a touch of sophistication. Garnishing each plate with a sprig of fresh herbs will enhance the visual appeal of the Churu Chicken Amarillo.

Storage Tips

To ensure your Churu Chicken Amarillo remains fresh and delicious, here are some storage tips: Proper storage will help preserve the flavors and texture of your leftover dish.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth in your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might need to add a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce from drying out. Reheating in the oven will help maintain the texture of the cheese in your Churu Chicken Amarillo.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly after freezing and thawing. Freezing may affect the creaminess of the sauce, but the flavor of your Churu Chicken Amarillo will still be delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Aji Amarillo Paste?

Aji Amarillo paste is a condiment made from the Aji Amarillo pepper, a staple in Peruvian cuisine. It has a unique fruity and slightly spicy flavor, making it a versatile ingredient for sauces and marinades. Its complex flavor profile adds depth to many Peruvian dishes.

Can I use a substitute for Aji Amarillo paste?

Yes, if you can’t find Aji Amarillo paste, you can use a mix of yellow bell pepper and a small amount of a spicy pepper like jalapeño to try and mimic the flavor. Be sure to adjust the spiciness to your preference. Aji Mirasol paste can be used as well as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor will not be exactly the same, but it can be a reasonable alternative.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, assemble the dish and bake as directed. This is a great way to streamline the cooking process, especially for busy weeknights.

How can I prevent the cheese from burning?

To prevent the cheese from burning, make sure the oven temperature is accurate. You can also cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then remove it for the last 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown. Keeping a close eye on the cheese while baking is key.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack. The key is to use cheeses that melt well for the best texture. Combining different cheeses can create exciting and unique flavors.

Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add extra flavor and visual appeal to your Churu Chicken Amarillo.

What other recipes can I make with Aji Amarillo paste?

Aji Amarillo paste is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Try adding it to marinades for grilled meats, sauces for pasta, or even dips for vegetables. Its unique flavor will enhance any dish you add it to. Consider using it in a Peruvian-style stir-fry or as a flavorful addition to soups and stews.

Conclusion

Churu Chicken Amarillo is a delightful dish that combines the comfort of creamy, cheesy flavors with the unique touch of Aji Amarillo peppers. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion, and its adaptability allows you to customize it to your taste. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious meal from scratch. This recipe is a great way to learn more about Peruvian cuisine, you can find some more informations at The Spruce Eats, so don’t hesitate to experiment and enjoy the process! And for a new delicious recipe idea, take a look to this creamy spaghetti bake recipe if you want other creamy, cheesy delight.
This Peruvian-inspired chicken dish is not only incredibly flavorful but also offers a wonderful opportunity to explore new culinary horizons. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with different variations, Churu Chicken Amarillo is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of creamy textures, cheesy goodness, and the unique spice of Aji Amarillo peppers creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. So, don’t hesitate to embark on this culinary adventure and discover the magic of Churu Chicken Amarillo! With its ease of preparation and customizable nature, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Enjoy the process of creating a delicious and satisfying meal from scratch, and savor every bite of this Peruvian-inspired delight.

Additional Recipes to Explore

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like:

• Creamy Shrimp and Pasta: A delicious combination of seafood and pasta in a luscious sauce.
• Cheddar Broccoli Pasta: A family-friendly dish that’s both cheesy and healthy.
• Mozzarella Pasta: A simple yet satisfying recipe with a classic flavor profile.
• Classic Marinara Pasta: A simple yet satisfying recipe with a classic flavor profile.
• Ground Chicken Pasta: A versatile and delicious recipe.