How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I use a different protein?

Yes, shrimp or tofu make excellent substitutes for chicken.

Is there a non-dairy option for the sauce?

Coconut cream can be used in place of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

Can I make this ahead?

The sauce can be made a day in advance, but cook the pasta fresh for best texture.

How can I reduce the heat of the dish?

Reduce the amount of aji amarillo paste to suit your heat preference.

Spicy Peruvian Aji Amarillo Pasta with Chicken and Lime

Name: Spicy Peruvian Aji Amarillo Pasta with Chicken and Lime
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice; Water for boiling; Salt to taste; 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 2 tbsp aji amarillo paste; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 garlic cloves; 1 tbsp lime juice; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges

A vibrant and zesty dish that marries the flavors of Peru with comforting pasta.

Experience a burst of South American flavors with creamy aji amarillo sauce, tender chicken, and a pop of lime for a unique culinary delight.

1 h 20 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g pasta of your choice

Water for boiling

Salt to taste

For the Chicken

2 chicken breasts, cut into strips

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tsp smoked paprika

For the Aji Amarillo Sauce

2 tbsp aji amarillo paste

1 cup heavy cream

2 garlic cloves

minced

1 tbsp lime juice

Salt to taste

For the Garnish

Fresh cilantro, chopped

Lime wedges

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

Season the Chicken

Season chicken strips with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Marinate

Let marinate for 20 minutes.

Preheat Skillet

Preheat a skillet over medium heat.

Preparing the Aji Amarillo Sauce

Heat Oil and Garlic

Heat a saucepan over low heat. Add olive oil and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.

⚠ Do not boil the sauce; keep it at a simmer to prevent curdling.

Combine Sauce

Stir in aji amarillo paste and heavy cream, whisk to combine.

💡 Adjust aji amarillo amount to control the heat level.

Cooking Process

Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Sear marinated chicken in a skillet until golden and cooked through.

Finish the Sauce

Combine sauce with lime juice and salt, simmer gently until slightly thickened.

Plating & Serving