Discover the best churu chicken amarillo recipe! A creamy, flavorful dish with bold spices, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try it now!
4chicken thighs or breastsboneless and skinless for quicker cooking
2tablespoonsolive oilor your preferred cooking oil
1teaspoonsaltadjust to taste
½teaspoonblack pepper
½teaspoonpaprikafor a smoky kick
For the Sauce:
2amarillo peppersfresh or canned, depending on availability
1medium onionfinely chopped
3garlic clovesminced
1teaspoonground cuminfor a warm, earthy flavor
½teaspoonturmericadds depth and color
1cupchicken brothor vegetable broth for a lighter option
½cupheavy creamfor that creamy, luxurious texture
1tablespoonlemon juicefor a zesty finish
Optional Garnishes:
Chopped fresh cilantro
Crumbled queso fresco
A pinch of chili flakesfor extra heat
Tips for Success:
If you can’t find amarillo pepperssubstitute with roasted bell peppers and a pinch of chili powder.
Use chicken thighs for a juicier resultbut 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)