Ají Amarillo Chicken Stew

A rich and creamy Peruvian classic
Ají Amarillo Chicken Stew

The first time I tasted Ají Amarillo Chicken Stew (Ají de Gallina), I was transported to the vibrant streets of Lima, Peru. The subtle heat of the yellow chili pepper, combined with the creamy sauce and tender chicken, created a symphony of flavors that forever changed my perspective on South American cuisine. After a decade of perfecting this traditional Peruvian dish, I’m excited to share my journey and recipe with you.

The Soul of Peruvian Spicy Chicken: Understanding Ají Amarillo

There’s something magical about the way Ají Amarillo transforms a simple chicken stew into an extraordinary culinary experience. This signature Peruvian yellow chili pepper isn’t just an ingredient – it’s the heart and soul of Peruvian cooking, bringing both heat and a unique fruity flavor that’s impossible to replicate.

The Cultural Heritage of Ají de Gallina

Dating back to colonial times, Ají de Gallina represents the beautiful fusion of European and Peruvian culinary traditions. This beloved dish emerged from the creative adaptation of medieval Spanish recipes by indigenous Peruvian cooks, resulting in one of South America’s most treasured comfort foods.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Peruvian Chicken Stew

Ají Amarillo Chicken Stew

To create an authentic Ají Amarillo Chicken Stew, you’ll need:

Base Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
  • 4 Ají Amarillo peppers (fresh or paste)
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • ½ cup walnuts
  • 1 large onion
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • White rice for serving

Aromatics and Seasonings:

  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste

The Magic of Ají Amarillo Peppers in Traditional Peruvian Dishes

The Ají Amarillo pepper is crucial for authentic flavor. With its medium heat level (around 30,000-50,000 Scoville units) and distinctive fruity notes, it creates the signature taste that makes this dish uniquely Peruvian.

Kitchen Equipment for South American Cuisine Success

Essential Tools:

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Blender or food processor
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoons
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Creating Your Spicy Chicken Masterpiece

Step 1: Preparing the Base

  1. Poach chicken breasts in seasoned water until tender
  2. Shred the chicken and set aside
  3. In a blender, process bread with evaporated milk until smooth
  4. Toast walnuts until fragrant

Step 2: The Crucial Sofrito

  1. Sauté finely diced onions until translucent
  2. Add minced garlic and Ají Amarillo paste
  3. Cook until fragrant and golden

The Art of Combining Flavors

Layer your ingredients thoughtfully:

  1. Add bread mixture to sofrito
  2. Incorporate shredded chicken
  3. Slowly add stock while stirring
  4. Season gradually
Ají Amarillo Chicken Stew

Advanced Tips for Authentic Results

  • Toast spices before adding to enhance flavor
  • Use room temperature ingredients
  • Adjust consistency with stock
  • Let flavors meld for 10 minutes before serving

Regional Variations Across Peru

Different regions add their unique touch:

  • Coastal: More seafood stock
  • Andean: Additional potatoes
  • Amazonian: Local herbs and chilies

Serving Your Masterpiece

Traditional accompaniments include:

  • White rice
  • Boiled potatoes
  • Black olives
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Fresh parsley

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem-Solving Guide

IssueSolution
Too thickAdd warm stock gradually
Too thinSimmer longer or add bread
Too spicyAdd more cream
Not spicy enoughAdd more Ají paste

Storage and Serving Recommendations

  • Store in airtight container
  • Keeps 3-4 days refrigerated
  • Reheat gently with added stock
  • Freezes well for up to 3 months

Health Benefits of Traditional Peruvian Dishes

This nutritious stew provides:

  • High-quality protein
  • Healthy fats from walnuts
  • Vitamin C from peppers
  • Complex carbohydrates
Ají Amarillo Chicken Stew

Cultural Significance in South American Cuisine

Ají de Gallina represents:

  • Family traditions
  • Cultural fusion
  • Culinary innovation
  • National pride

Conclusion: Mastering Peruvian Chicken Stew

Creating the perfect Ají Amarillo Chicken Stew is a journey worth taking. Each batch teaches something new about balance, tradition, and the joy of cooking. Remember, the best results come from patience, quality ingredients, and respect for the traditional methods.

Ají Amarillo Chicken Stew

Ají Amarillo Chicken Stew: A Heartwarming Journey Through Traditional Peruvian Cuisine

A rich and creamy Peruvian classic
No ratings yet
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cuisine Indian
Servings 6 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
  • 4 Ají Amarillo peppers fresh or paste
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • ½ cup walnuts
  • 1 large onion finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • White rice for serving

Aromatics and Seasonings:

  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preparing the Base

  • Poach the chicken breasts in seasoned water until tender.
  • Shred the cooked chicken and set aside.
  • In a blender, process the bread crumbs with evaporated milk until smooth.
  • Toast walnuts until fragrant and set aside.

Step 2: The Crucial Sofrito

  • Heat oil in a Dutch oven and sauté onions until translucent.
  • Add minced garlic and Ají Amarillo paste, cooking until fragrant and golden.

Step 3: Combining Flavors

  • Add the blended bread mixture to the sofrito.
  • Stir in the shredded chicken.
  • Slowly pour in the chicken stock while stirring.
  • Add bay leaves, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper to taste.
  • Simmer until the stew thickens and flavors meld (about 10 minutes).

Step 4: Serving Your Masterpiece

  • Serve hot over white rice.
  • Garnish with boiled potatoes, black olives, hard-boiled eggs, and fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Toast spices before adding for enhanced depth of flavor.
  • Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother consistency.
  • Adjust thickness with more stock or bread as needed.
  • Let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5g
Keyword Ají Amarillo recipe, Ají de Gallina, how to make Ají de Gallina, Peruvian chicken stew, Peruvian comfort food, South American cuisine, spicy chicken stew, traditional Peruvian dish
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Can I substitute Ají Amarillo peppers?

While authentic Ají Amarillo is preferred, yellow bell peppers with cayenne can work in a pinch.

How spicy is this dish?

Moderately spicy, but adjustable to taste.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, flavors often improve after 24 hours.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Try using cauliflower or mushrooms instead of chicken

What wine pairs well?

A crisp white wine like Torrontés or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish perfectly.

I LOVE IT

January 20, 2025

I absolutely love Panera Bread’s Chicken Salad! It’s the perfect blend of fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. The chicken is always tender and well-seasoned, and the combination of crisp celery, crunchy pecans, and sweet grapes creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully without being too heavy.

Whether I have it on a sandwich, with a side salad, or just by itself, it never disappoints. It’s a great option for a light yet satisfying meal. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a refreshing and tasty chicken salad.

Nana

FAQ

  1. Can I substitute Ají Amarillo peppers?
    While authentic Ají Amarillo is preferred, yellow bell peppers with cayenne can work in a pinch.
  2. How spicy is this dish?
    Moderately spicy, but adjustable to taste.
  3. Can I make it ahead?
    Yes, flavors often improve after 24 hours.
  4. Is there a vegetarian version?
    Try using cauliflower or mushrooms instead of chicken.
  5. What wine pairs well?
    A crisp white wine like Torrontés or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish perfectly.

source : https://www.carolinescooking.com/aji-de-gallina-peruvian-chicken-stew/