Churu Chicken Amarillo (Printable Recipe)

Bold Peruvian flavors meet tender chicken in this rich Aji Amarillo infused dish perfect for any occasion.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Main Components

01 - 2 to 3 pounds bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks or boneless chicken pieces
02 - 3 to 4 tablespoons Aji Amarillo paste or 6 to 8 fresh Aji Amarillo peppers, seeded and chopped
03 - 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
04 - 4 to 5 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
06 - 0.5 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
07 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
08 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
09 - 1 teaspoon paprika
10 - Juice of 2 limes
11 - Salt and black pepper to taste
12 - Fresh cilantro for garnish

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and cumin. Let sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes.
02 - Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken skin-side down and sear 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
03 - Reduce heat to medium. Add onions and cook 4 to 5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute without browning.
04 - Stir in Aji Amarillo paste and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add cumin and paprika, stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
05 - Pour in chicken broth, scraping the pot. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and puree until smooth. Return to pot and stir in cream. Simmer 3 to 4 minutes.
06 - Return chicken to pot, submerge halfway in sauce. Cover and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, turning once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
07 - Stir in lime juice to taste. Adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Using bone-in chicken enhances flavor and juiciness. Boneless options reduce cooking time.
02 - Aji Amarillo paste is available online or in Latin American markets. Fresh peppers offer deeper flavor.
03 - The sauce should be smooth and creamy, coating the chicken without being too thick or runny.
04 - This dish improves in flavor overnight and freezes well for up to 3 months.

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