What does “Churu” mean in Peruvian cuisine?

“Churu” is a colloquial and cultural term often used in rural Andean areas of Peru to describe something native, earthy, or rustic. When it’s applied to food—like Churu Chicken Amarillo—it implies that the dish is authentic, homemade, and rooted in tradition , often cooked with simple yet flavorful ingredients passed down through generations.

Is Chicken Amarillo spicy?

Yes, but it’s mild to moderate in heat . The star ingredient— Aji Amarillo chili —is spicy, but when blended with milk, cheese, and crackers , the heat is beautifully balanced. The dish has a rich, fruity warmth rather than a burn-your-mouth kind of spice.

Can I make Chicken Amarillo without Aji Amarillo peppers?

Absolutely. If you can’t find fresh or jarred Aji Amarillo, you can replicate the flavor with: Yellow bell peppers (for color and sweetness) A small amount of jalapeño or serrano (for heat) Turmeric or curry powder (for color and earthy notes) Blend these with cheese and milk to get a close approximation of the original sauce.

What’s the best side dish to serve with Churu Chicken Amarillo?

White rice is the classic pairing, but you can also serve it with: Steamed Peruvian potatoes Sweet corn kernels Pickled red onions Avocado slices These sides help absorb the creamy sauce and provide contrast to the spice.

Can I store and reheat this dish later?

Yes! In fact, it often tastes better the next day . Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge , and reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

Where can I buy authentic Peruvian Amarillo peppers in the USA?

You can find jarred Aji Amarillo paste at: Latin American grocery stores International markets Online (Amazon, Walmart, or specialty Latin food websites) Look for brands like Inca’s Food or Amarillo Sol for the most authentic flavor.

Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe – The Best Peruvian Classic

Name: Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe en Lima: A Taste of Peru’s Soul
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless thighs or breasts; Ají Amarillo Paste: 3 tablespoons (plus 2 additional tablespoons for the sauce); Vegetables: 1 large onion (chopped), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 red bell pepper (chopped); Chicken Stock: 1 cup; Spices: 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon oregano, salt, and pepper to taste; Evaporated Milk: 1 cup; Crackers or Bread: 4 pieces (crumbled); Cheese: ½ cup grated queso fresco or Parmesan; Optional Garnish: Fresh cilantro leaves

Description

A creamy and flavorful Peruvian dish, Churu Chicken Amarillo combines tender chicken with a rich ají amarillo sauce. Perfect for a taste of Lima at home.

Ingredients

Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless thighs or breasts
Ají Amarillo Paste: 3 tablespoons (plus 2 additional tablespoons for the sauce)
Vegetables: 1 large onion (chopped), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
Chicken Stock: 1 cup
Spices: 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon oregano, salt, and pepper to taste
Evaporated Milk: 1 cup
Crackers or Bread: 4 pieces (crumbled)
Cheese: ½ cup grated queso fresco or Parmesan
Optional Garnish: Fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions

Season chicken with cumin, salt, and pepper.
Heat oil in a skillet and sear chicken until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper until softened. Add ají amarillo paste and cook for 2 minutes.
Blend the sautéed mixture with evaporated milk, crumbled crackers, and cheese until smooth.
Return the sauce to the skillet, add chicken stock, and simmer.
Place chicken in the sauce and cook on low heat for 20 minutes, ensuring it’s tender and coated.
Garnish with cilantro and serve with steamed rice or boiled potatoes.

Notes

Substitute ají amarillo paste with yellow bell peppers and a pinch of chili powder if unavailable.
Adjust spice levels to suit your preference.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Peruvian

Keywords: Churu Chicken Amarillo, Peruvian chicken recipe, ají amarillo chicken, Lima cuisine, creamy chicken dish