Growing up in a Mexican-American household, the aroma of sizzling chicken and aromatic spices was a familiar scent that always filled our kitchen. But there was one dish that stood out above the rest – my mom’s legendary Churu Chicken Amarillo. The perfect blend of tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and a tantalizing sauce that danced on your taste buds, this dish became a staple in our family gatherings and a recipe I’ve cherished ever since.
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Why This Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Churu Chicken Amarillo
As I’ve perfected this recipe over the years, I’ve discovered the key to its exceptional flavor lies in the perfect balance of spices and the slow-simmered sauce that coats each tender morsel of chicken. The combination of smoky paprika, earthy cumin, and fragrant oregano creates a depth of flavor that is simply unmatched. And the addition of just a touch of honey and mustard lends a subtle sweetness and tanginess that brings the whole dish together in perfect harmony.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
At the heart of this Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe are the chicken, onions, and bell peppers. The chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes, ensure each bite is juicy and flavorful. The diced onions and bell peppers add a vibrant crunch and color that complements the chicken beautifully. Garlic is a must-have, providing a aromatic base that infuses the dish with its signature savory notes.
The spices are where this recipe really shines. Ground cumin lends an earthy, warm undertone, while the smoked paprika adds a delightful smoky depth. Dried oregano rounds out the flavor profile with its slightly peppery, slightly minty essence. Tying it all together is the chicken broth, which helps create a luscious sauce, and the diced tomatoes, which add a pop of acidity to balance the sweetness.
Finally, a touch of honey and yellow mustard adds the perfect finishing touches, creating a sauce that’s both sweet and tangy, coating the chicken in a way that’s simply irresistible.
Step-by-Step Churu Chicken Amarillo Instructions
Preparing Your Churu Chicken Amarillo
With a total time of just 45 minutes, this Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe is the perfect weeknight meal. All you’ll need is a large skillet or sauté pan, a cutting board, and a sharp knife. Let’s get started!
1- Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and bite-sized pieces.
2- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and starting to caramelize.
3- Next, add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as that can create a bitter taste.
4- Now it’s time to add the spices. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Stir to coat the chicken and vegetables, and let the spices toast for 2-3 minutes to release their bold flavors.
5- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, including the juices from the can. Stir in the yellow mustard and honey, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through.
6- Finally, remove the pan from heat and garnish your Churu Chicken Amarillo with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or your favorite side dish, and enjoy the vibrant flavors that make this recipe a true standout.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cutting the chicken into evenly sized 1-inch cubes ensures it cooks through quickly and evenly.
- Sautéing the onions and peppers until they start to caramelize adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.
- Toasting the spices before adding the liquid ingredients helps to maximize their aroma and taste.
- Simmering the sauce for 15-20 minutes allows the flavors to meld together perfectly and thickens the consistency.
Serving and Storing Your Churu Chicken Amarillo
Perfect Pairings for Churu Chicken Amarillo
This Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe serves 4 and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a veggie-packed meal, steamed broccoli or roasted sweet potatoes make excellent complements. And to quench the palate, a refreshing citrus-infused agua fresca or a crisp Mexican lager would be the perfect beverage accompaniment.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Churu Chicken Amarillo is a fantastic make-ahead meal. Once cooked, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
For longer-term storage, the dish can also be frozen. Allow it to cool, then portion it into individual servings in freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the oven until piping hot.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Churu Chicken Amarillo
Creative Churu Chicken Amarillo Variations
While this classic Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe is already a flavor sensation, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try swapping in different colored bell peppers for a vibrant rainbow effect. For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. You could even substitute diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a seasonal twist.
Making Churu Chicken Amarillo Diet-Friendly
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free chicken broth and ensure your mustard is also gluten-free. For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, serve the Churu Chicken Amarillo over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. And for a vegan adaptation, replace the chicken with cubed extra-firm tofu or chickpeas, and use a plant-based broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of chicken in this recipe?
A: While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you could certainly use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or a combination of both. Thighs will provide a bit more moisture and richness to the dish.
Q: How long does it take to make Churu Chicken Amarillo?
A: This recipe has a total time of 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time. It’s a quick and easy weeknight meal that comes together in less than an hour.
Q: Can I make Churu Chicken Amarillo ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can refrigerate it for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Q: How many servings does this Churu Chicken Amarillo recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 4 servings, making it a great option for a family dinner or meal prep.
Q: What if my sauce is too thin or too thick?
A: If your sauce is too thin, simply let it simmer for a few extra minutes to allow it to thicken up. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash of chicken broth or water.
Churu Chicken Amarillo
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Churu Chicken Amarillo is a vibrant and flavorful Latin American-inspired dish that features tender chicken in a rich, golden-yellow sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the mustard and honey, and then add the seared chicken back to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve the Churu Chicken Amarillo hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
Notes
This dish can be served with a side of fluffy white rice or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Chicken, Turkey & Pork Mains
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Latin American
Conclusion
Churu Chicken Amarillo is a true taste of Mexico that will transport your senses to a vibrant, sun-drenched kitchen. With its perfectly balanced blend of spices, tender chicken, and a sauce that’s both sweet and tangy, this recipe is destined to become a new family favorite. I hope you’ll give it a try and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media using the hashtag #ChuruChickenAmarillo. Buen provecho!
