Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe
Churu Chicken Amarillo: Ready in 45 minutes! This easy-to-make Peruvian dish features tender chicken thighs marinated in zesty spices and a rich aji amarillo sauce. Perfect for family dinners!

- about churu chicken amarillo
- master the art of churu chicken amarillo
- your new favorite churu chicken amarillo
- health & nutrition highlights
- recipe at a glance
- master ingredient list
- kitchen equipment essentials
- pro ingredient tips
- perfect cooking technique
- success guaranteed tips
- perfect presentation
- storage & make - ahead
- creative variations
- expert faq solutions
- complete nutrition guide
- Recipe Card
about churu chicken amarillo
churu chicken amarillo is a vibrant dish that hails from the rich culinary landscape of peru, the term "churu" reflects its roots in traditional peruvian cooking, where bold flavors and fresh ingredients come together to create exciting meals, the use of aji amarillo peppers a staple in peruvian cuisine gives this dish its signature heat and bright color, historically, these peppers were revered not just for their flavor but also for their health benefits, making them an essential part of local diets .
one unique selling point of churu chicken amarillo is its ability to marry the warmth of spices with the freshness of lime juice and cilantro, this balance creates a mouthwatering experience that appeals to adventurous eaters while still being approachable for those new to international flavors, additionally, its relatively straightforward preparation makes it accessible for home cooks looking to impress family or guests without spending all day in the kitchen .
master the art of churu chicken amarillo
diving into churu chicken amarillo means embracing a rich culinary heritage steeped in tradition, the fascinating origin story behind this dish showcases how ancient agricultural practices and indigenous ingredients shaped peru's food culture over centuries, from inca times, when crops like potatoes and chili peppers thrived, to modern kitchens today, this recipe embodies both history and innovation .
culturally significant as well, churu chicken amarillo reflects peru’s identity through its fusion of flavors that celebrate both land and sea showcasing everything from coastal seafood dishes to hearty mountain fare, today, it's gaining popularity beyond south america; food enthusiasts worldwide are discovering this gem thanks to social media platforms showcasing colorful plates filled with deliciousness .
your new favorite churu chicken amarillo
what sets churu chicken amarillo apart are its unique flavor combinations that tantalize your taste buds. picture juicy chicken thighs marinated with zesty lime juice mixed perfectly with earthy cumin and smoky paprika – simply divine. plus, the foolproof techniques outlined make cooking easier than you might think; even if you're not a seasoned chef.
this expert - tested method ensures consistent results every time you whip up this dish at home, and let’s be honest : who doesn’t love time - saving tips ? with just 15 minutes needed for marinating followed by thirty minutes on the stove (yup you heard right.), you can have dinner ready fast without compromising on flavor or quality .
health & nutrition highlights
when it comes down to health benefits churu chicken amarillo shines brightly. packed with protein from tender chicken thighs along with vitamins from fresh herbs like cilantro this dish promotes wellness while satisfying your cravings. dietary considerations ? you can easily adapt it by using turkey or adding grilled veggies instead if you're leaning towards plant - based options.
the wellness advantages extend beyond just nutritious ingredients; spicy aji amarillo has been known for boosting metabolism too. as far as balanced nutrition facts go each serving contains approximately 350 calories loaded with proteins yet balanced out by healthy fats coming from vegetable oil used sparingly during cooking .
recipe at a glance
here’s what you need before diving into creating your own delicious plate :
- total preparation time : just 15 minutes (plus some marinating magic.)
- cooking skill level required : medium – perfect for any eager home cook wanting something fun yet manageable
- serving size details : serves about four people comfortably (perfect family meal)
- cost efficiency : ingredients won't break the bank either; affordable choices mean everyone gets fed deliciously without splurging.
in short and i mean really short it’s hard not fall head over heels for this delightful blend found within our beloved “churu chicken amarillo recipe .” so why wait ? grab those aprons because flavorful adventures await right in your kitchen today.

master ingredient list
premium core ingredients
when it comes to making the perfect churu chicken amarillo, using high - quality ingredients is key, here’s what you'll need :
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1 .5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
look for chicken that’s fresh and has a pinkish hue, without any dark spots, if possible, opt for organic or free - range chicken for better flavor and texture, store in the refrigerator if you’re using it within a couple of days; otherwise, freeze it . -
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
freshly squeezed is always best. choose limes that feel heavy for their size with smooth skin, remember to store leftover limes in the fridge they’ll last longer and stay juicy. -
2 teaspoons ground cumin
this spice adds warmth and depth, go for whole seeds if you can find them; they’re more flavorful when freshly ground at home. keep cumin in an airtight container away from sunlight to maintain its potency . -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
this gives your dish a lovely smoky flavor, opt for spanish smoked paprika (pimentón) whenever possible the quality really shines through. store in a cool place . -
salt and pepper to taste
use kosher salt or sea salt they provide better flavor than table salt. for pepper, freshly cracked black peppercorns will elevate your dish significantly .
signature seasoning blend
to create that signature flavor profile of churu chicken amarillo, these seasonings are crucial :
-
aji amarillo paste
you can buy this at specialty stores or online but look out for brands that use minimal preservatives freshness matters. if you're feeling adventurous, consider making your own by rehydrating dried aji amarillo peppers . -
vegetable oil (2 tablespoons)
a neutral oil like canola works well here just make sure it's good quality as it'll impact the overall taste of your sauce. -
garlic (3 cloves)
fresh garlic brings out amazing flavors choose bulbs that are firm with no soft spots .
smart substitutions
sometimes life throws curveballs our way. here are some handy swaps :
- instead of chicken thighs, you could use turkey thighs or even firm tofu if you're going vegetarian .
- if lime isn’t available ? lemon juice will work as well just slightly different zing.
- for those sensitive to spice : reduce the amount of aji amarillo paste or look into mild chili sauces .
- seasonal veggies like bell peppers could be roasted along with the chicken rather than using meat altogether during summer months.
kitchen equipment essentials
before diving into cooking this fabulous dish, let’s gather what you’ll need :
must - have tools
1, large mixing bowl – perfect for marinating your chicken . 1, cutting board – always essential when prepping ingredients . 1, sharp knife – invest in one; trust me it makes chopping so much easier. 1, skillet – a large one where all magic happens.
recommended appliances
if you've got ‘em :
- blender/food processor : great for making homemade aji amarillo paste smoothly .
- instant pot : can speed up cooking time if you're short on minutes .
helpful gadgets
a few extras never hurt :
1, meat thermometer - to ensure perfect doneness every time . 1, zester/grater - handy tool when zesting limes you don't want bitter pith ruining everything. 1, measuring spoons & cups - precision matters.
pro ingredient tips
now let's get down to some insider secrets :
1, when selecting spices like cumin or paprika, check expiration dates. spices lose their punch over time; fresher means tastier dishes .
1, quality markers : for oils and pastes look at color consistency and aroma before purchasing; vibrant colors usually indicate freshness.
3 .storage solutions : keep herbs fresh by placing them upright in water like flowers; cover loosely with plastic wrap too it helps retain moisture .
4 .money - saving tip : buy spices in bulk if possible even small amounts add up quickly over time compared to little jars.
with all these tips under your belt alongside our delicious churu chicken amarillo recipe waiting ahead it’s sure gonna impress family & friends alike while also keeping things easy on yourself during prep day. happy cooking everyone.
perfect cooking technique
cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you follow the right techniques, whether you're making a simple meal or a complex dish, mastering the essentials can elevate your culinary skills, let’s break it down step by step.
essential preparation steps
mise en place details
before anything else, gather all your ingredients and tools, this french term means "everything in its place ." for our churu chicken amarillo recipe, you'll need chicken thighs, lime juice, spices like cumin and paprika, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and either store - bought or homemade aji amarillo paste .
prep techniques
chop your onion finely and mince your garlic to ensure even cooking, if you're using dried peppers for the homemade paste rehydrate them first. just soak them in warm water until they soften up, also, measure out your spices beforehand; this not only saves time but also helps you avoid forgetting any crucial ingredient .
time management
marinate the chicken while prepping other ingredients, this way, you maximize flavor without wasting time, aim for at least 15 minutes of marination (though longer is better if you have it.) .
organization tips
keep everything organized on your countertop or table with separate bowls for chopped veggies and pre - measured spices, it makes cooking smoother when everything is within reach.
professional cooking method
now that we’ve got our prep sorted out let’s dive into the actual cooking process .
1, heat control : start by heating oil in a large skillet over medium heat .
1, onion sautéing : add chopped onions once the oil shimmers this should take about 1 - 2 minutes and sauté until they turn translucent (roughly 5 minutes) .
1, garlic addition : toss in minced garlic next; cook for an additional minute until fragrant but don’t let it burn. burnt garlic = bitter sauce; trust me on that one .
1, broth & paste mix : pour in low - sodium chicken broth along with either store - bought or homemade aji amarillo paste into the skillet next to create that vibrant sauce we’re after .
1, simmering time : bring this mixture to a simmer before reducing heat to low so it gently bubbles away while absorbing flavors .
expert techniques
to achieve perfection in every bite :
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searing chicken properly : in another skillet over medium - high heat (about 375°f/190°c), sear marinated chicken thighs for about 5 - 7 minutes on each side until golden brown .
-
temperature control : use an instant - read thermometer to check internal temperature you're aiming for at least 165°f/75°c to ensure it's fully cooked without being dry.
-
combining flavors : once seared perfectly (and trust me the browning adds tons of flavor), transfer those beauties into your simmering sauce mixture from earlier and allow them to meld together on low heat for about ten more minutes .
success strategies
now that you've cooked through each step let's make sure everything turns out just right.
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troubleshooting tips : if sauce looks too thick during simmering ? just add a splash more broth. conversely, if too thin ? let it simmer longer uncovered it’ll reduce nicely .
-
quality assurance checkpoints : taste - test as you go. before serving up those chicken thighs drenched in their colorful sauce give it one last seasoning adjustment with salt or even lime juice if needed.
-
perfect results guide :
- the final dish should look glossy with vibrant colors from both yellow - orange hues of chili paste and green cilantro garnish .
- serve alongside freshly cut lime wedges they add brightness when squeezed just before eating.
by following these steps closely from mise en place through professional methods you’ll create stunning dishes consistently every time. enjoy experimenting with flavors while refining techniques; happy cooking.

success guaranteed tips
when it comes to nailing the churu chicken amarillo recipe , a few pro tips can elevate your dish, first off, marinating is key. letting those chicken thighs soak in that zesty lime juice and spices for longer than 15 minutes think 1 - 2 hours if you can will deepen the flavor beautifully .
another insider insight ? use a meat thermometer to check doneness, it’ll give you peace of mind knowing your chicken is cooked perfectly at 165°f (75°c), plus, if you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of soy sauce or honey into the marinade for an extra layer of complexity .
lastly, keep things simple in the kitchen. gather all your ingredients before starting; this makes cooking smoother and way less stressful, trust me i’ve had my share of frantic runs back to the pantry.
perfect presentation
now let’s talk about making this dish look as good as it tastes. for plating techniques, consider using shallow bowls instead of flat plates; they add depth and make everything pop visually, spoon some rice or quinoa on one side and nestle that golden chicken right next to it .
garnishing with fresh cilantro leaves is a must it adds color and freshness. if you want to be fancy (and who doesn’t ?), sprinkle some thinly sliced radishes for crunch and color contrast, a lime wedge on the side not only looks cute but gives diners that citrusy kick when squeezed over their meal .
and hey, don’t forget visual appeal tips like contrasting colors bright greens from veggies paired with vibrant yellow - orange sauce will have everyone reaching for their forks.
storage & make - ahead
got leftovers ? lucky you. to store any uneaten churu chicken amarillo, place it in an airtight container in the fridge where it should stay fresh for up to four days, if you're planning ahead, this dish actually holds its flavors well overnight a little bonus there.
for longer preservation methods, freeze portions in freezer bags or containers (just remove excess air) where they’ll last about three months, reheating instructions are simple : thaw overnight in the fridge before warming gently on low heat until warmed through be careful not to dry it out.
freshness tips include adding a squeeze of lime just before serving again; it'll brighten up all those flavors anew .
creative variations
the beauty of cooking lies in creativity. with this churu chicken amarillo recipe , feel free to play around with flavor adaptations like adding chipotle powder for smokiness or diced bell peppers for sweetness while sautéing onions .
if dietary modifications are needed, swap out chicken thighs for turkey or even chickpeas if going vegetarian the marinade works wonders across different proteins. seasonal twists could involve tossing grilled zucchini during summer or roasted butternut squash when fall rolls around .
regional variations ? oh boy you might consider using different peppers based on availability; jalapeños could add a nice kick while keeping things accessible.
expert faq solutions
let’s tackle common concerns that might arise while cooking this dish, one frequent question : “what if my sauce is too thick ?” simply whisk in a bit more chicken broth until desired consistency is reached .
expert answers also include how long exactly should i cook my chicken ? typically around 5 - 7 minutes per side over medium - high heat yields perfect results every time just remember internal temps matter most.
a troubleshooting guide would suggest checking seasoning levels throughout cooking; sometimes adjusting salt after simmering can really enhance flavors dramatically .
success tips often come down to trusting your instincts if something feels off during prep or cooking stages ? don’t hesitate to adjust according to personal taste preferences.
complete nutrition guide
finally and perhaps most importantly the nutrition breakdown helps understand what’s packed into each delicious bite of churu chicken amarillo, each serving provides approximately 350 calories along with 28g protein which keeps hunger at bay without compromising taste..
health benefits abound here too from lean protein aiding muscle retention post - exercise sessions to spices like cumin having anti - inflammatory properties they’re worth knowing about when enjoying meals guilt - free.
dietary information suggests balancing portions accordingly : serve alongside steamed veggies or light salads containing healthy fats ensures nutritious eats without going overboard on calories either way which i always love seeing at my dinner table.

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 6 dried aji amarillo peppers (rehydrated and blended with water)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Lime wedges
🥄 Instructions:
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them evenly in the marinade. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
- Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add chopped onions. Sauté until they are translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Stir in chicken broth and your choice of either store-bought or homemade aji amarillo paste into the skillet. Bring to a simmer then reduce heat to low.
- Step 4: Remove marinated chicken from fridge. In another skillet over medium-high heat, sear each thigh for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least165°F/75°C).
- Step 5: Once chicken is cooked through, transfer it into the sauce mixture in your first skillet. Allow everything to simmer together on low heat for an additional 10 minutes, letting flavors meld together.
- Step 6: Plate your Churu Chicken Amarillo garnished with fresh cilantro leaves alongside lime wedges for squeezing over just before eating.
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