Looking to elevate your chicken dinner game without spending hours in the kitchen? This Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe is your answer to a restaurant-quality meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. With its velvety amarillo sauce and perfectly tender chicken, this dish has become a reader favorite for good reason.
Why This Churu Chicken Amarillo Will Become Your New Go-To
If you love our Apple Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders, you’re in for a treat. This Churu Chicken Amarillo takes weeknight cooking to a whole new level. The secret lies in the harmonious blend of creamy sauce and aji amarillo paste, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
You might be wondering what makes this dish special. Unlike traditional cream-based chicken recipes, the aji amarillo paste adds a unique Peruvian-inspired twist that sets it apart from dishes like our popular Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets. The paste brings a subtle heat and fruity undertone that transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Success
Before diving into the recipe, let’s ensure you have the right equipment. I recommend using a high-quality skillet for the best results. Here are my top picks (affiliate links):
- A 12-inch stainless steel skillet for even heat distribution
- A sharp chef’s knife for precise cutting
- Heavy-bottom measuring cups for accurate portions
These tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Signature Amarillo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste Grab it here
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional for thickening)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Crumbled queso fresco
Tools to Have on Hand
- A large skillet
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Whisk or wooden spoon
Pro Tip: While you can find aji amarillo paste in specialty stores, I recommend this premium brand available online for consistent quality and authentic flavor.
The Magic Behind Perfect Churu Chicken Amarillo
Getting this dish right is all about technique. Here’s my step-by-step guide to perfection:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Slice the chicken into thin cutlets or bite-sized pieces for faster cooking.
- Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Amarillo Sauce
- Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the aji amarillo paste, blending until smooth.
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Top with parsley or queso fresco and serve hot.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
After making this dish countless times in my kitchen and teaching it in cooking classes, I’ve discovered some game-changing tips:
- Temperature Control: Start with room-temperature chicken for even cooking
- Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, gradually add the cornstarch slurry while whisking
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance for even better flavor
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Transform this dish into a complete meal with these perfect accompaniments:
- Rice: Steamed white rice is a classic side.
- Grains: Try it with fluffy quinoa for a wholesome option.
- Veggies: Roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans make a perfect accompaniment.
For more inspiration, check out our Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets Recipe or Apple Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders.
For more side dish inspiration, check out our complete recipe collection.
Tips for Success
- Adjust Spice Levels: Aji amarillo paste varies in heat. Start small and add more to suit your taste.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
- Add-Ons: For extra flair, mix in spinach, roasted bell peppers, or even mushrooms.
Nutrition Information
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe
Equipment
- A large skillet
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Whisk or wooden spoon
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Amarillo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste affiliate link: Grab it here
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water optional for thickening
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley finely chopped
- Crumbled queso fresco
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Slice the chicken into thin cutlets or bite-sized pieces for faster cooking.
- Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Amarillo Sauce
- Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the aji amarillo paste, blending until smooth.
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Top with parsley or queso fresco and serve hot.
Notes
Tips for Success
- Adjust Spice Levels: Aji amarillo paste varies in heat. Start small and add more to suit your taste.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
- Add-Ons: For extra flair, mix in spinach, roasted bell peppers, or even mushrooms.
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