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Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe with Creamy Sauce and Rice

Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe

Rebecca Blumer
Discover the best churu chicken amarillo recipe! A creamy, flavorful dish with bold spices, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try it now!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Peruvian-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 4 chicken thighs or breasts boneless and skinless for quicker cooking
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or your preferred cooking oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika for a smoky kick

For the Sauce:

  • 2 amarillo peppers fresh or canned, depending on availability
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin for a warm, earthy flavor
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric adds depth and color
  • 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter option
  • ½ cup heavy cream for that creamy, luxurious texture
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice for a zesty finish

Optional Garnishes:

  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Crumbled queso fresco
  • A pinch of chili flakes for extra heat

Tips for Success:

  • If you can’t find amarillo peppers substitute with roasted bell peppers and a pinch of chili powder.
  • Use chicken thighs for a juicier result but chicken breasts work perfectly if you prefer leaner meat.
  • Want to keep it light? Swap heavy cream for coconut milk—it’s just as creamy with a hint of tropical flair.

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken:

  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear.
  • Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Base:

  • In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Build the Sauce:

  • Add the amarillo peppers, cumin, and turmeric to the skillet, stirring to coat the onions and garlic in the spices.
  • Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and release all the flavorful bits.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Blend and Cream:

  • Carefully transfer the sauce to a blender and blend until smooth. (Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the skillet.)
  • Return the sauce to the skillet and stir in the heavy cream, creating a luscious, creamy consistency.

Finish the Dish:

  • Add the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top to coat.
  • Cover and simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  • Stir in the lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Serve and Enjoy:

  • Plate the chicken with a generous pour of sauce over each piece.
  • Pair with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro, queso fresco, or chili flakes for an extra pop of flavor.

Pro Tip:

  • For an even richer flavor, let the chicken marinate in the seasonings for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This simple step takes the dish to the next level!

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 550mg
 
(Note: Values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used)