Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a delicious and popular dish rooted in the culinary traditions of Peru. Known as Pollo a la Brasa in Peru, this chicken recipe is often served with a vibrant and flavorful Aji Verde, or green sauce. The secret to this dish is the combination of a well-seasoned marinade and the creamy, slightly spicy sauce that complements the chicken perfectly. If you’re looking for a healthy, protein-packed meal with a punch of flavor, this is the recipe for you.
Why Make Peruvian Chicken?
Peruvian cuisine is known for its rich blend of spices and vibrant ingredients. This chicken dish is no exception. It’s not only flavorful but also versatile. The marinade gives the chicken a deep, savory flavor, while the Aji Verde adds a burst of freshness and spice. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and can be cooked using a variety of methods like roasting or grilling.
For a twist on traditional chicken recipes, check out our guide on how to make Hibachi chicken at home for another great option for a flavorful, protein-packed meal.
Health Benefits of Peruvian Chicken
This dish is not only delicious but also healthy. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, making it ideal for those looking to build muscle or maintain a balanced diet. Additionally, the fresh ingredients in the Aji Verde sauce, such as cilantro and lime juice, offer antioxidants and vitamin C to support your immune system.
If you’re interested in exploring more health-conscious recipes, our guide to ground beef recipes offers a variety of options that balance flavor with nutrition.
Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this dish:
- Chicken: You can use a whole chicken, chicken thighs, or drumsticks.
- Marinade: Lime juice, cumin, paprika, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
- Green Sauce (Aji Verde): Cilantro, garlic, jalapeños, lime juice, Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for creaminess, and Aji Amarillo (optional).
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating is crucial for getting that deep, rich flavor in the chicken. Here’s a simple marinade recipe:
- Combine lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and soy sauce in a bowl.
- Rub this marinade all over the chicken, ensuring it gets into the nooks and crannies.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, though overnight will yield the best results.
Tip: The longer you let the chicken marinate, the more flavorful it will be. This step helps tenderize the meat and allows the spices to penetrate deep into the chicken.
Cooking Methods
There are a few different ways to cook Peruvian chicken:
Oven-Roasted Peruvian Chicken
For a crispy, tender chicken, oven-roasting is a fantastic method:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the marinated chicken on a roasting rack and cook for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken.
- Baste the chicken with its juices halfway through for extra flavor.
Grilled Peruvian Chicken
Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the Aji Verde:
- Heat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked.
Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Making the Aji Verde (Green Sauce)
This sauce is the star of the dish. Here’s how to make a creamy and slightly spicy Aji Verde:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cilantro (packed)
- 2-3 jalapeños, seeded for less heat
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for a healthier option)
- 1 tablespoon Aji Amarillo paste (optional but adds authentic flavor)
Steps:
- Blend all the ingredients together in a food processor until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.
Tip: If you want a spicier sauce, keep the jalapeño seeds or add more peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your chicken and green sauce are ready, here are some ways to serve this delicious dish:
- With rice: Serve the chicken alongside Peruvian-style rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- With potatoes: Roasted or fried potatoes are a traditional side for this dish in Peru.
- With salad: A fresh salad with a light lime vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken and sauce.
For an extra special treat, consider making a batch of tater tots or mashed potatoes to accompany the meal, much like how we recommend in our ultimate potato soup recipe.
Storing and Freezing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, Peruvian chicken stores very well in the fridge or freezer:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze chicken and green sauce separately for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or on the stove.
Variations of the Recipe
Here are some popular variations you can try with this dish:
- Spicy version: Add more jalapeños to the green sauce or drizzle some hot sauce over the chicken before serving.
- Vegan Green Sauce: Use avocado or cashew cream in place of yogurt or mayonnaise for a dairy-free version of the Aji Verde.
- Whole Chicken vs. Thighs: While using a whole chicken is more traditional, thighs or drumsticks are quicker and more convenient for a weeknight meal.
FAQs Of Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce recipe
Can I make this dish with chicken breasts instead of thighs or a whole chicken?
Yes, chicken breasts work well but may require less cooking time to avoid drying out.
Can I prepare the green sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. It actually tastes better after a few hours as the flavors meld.
What can I substitute for Aji Amarillo?
If you can’t find Aji Amarillo paste, you can use yellow bell peppers or jalapeños as a substitute.
How do I adjust the spice level of the green sauce?
To reduce heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use only one pepper. For more heat, add additional peppers or leave in the seeds.
Conclusion For Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe
Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a flavorful and healthy meal that brings the taste of Peru to your kitchen. Whether roasted or grilled, the chicken is packed with spices, and the Aji Verde sauce adds a creamy, zesty kick that will leave you wanting more. Serve this dish with rice, potatoes, or salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
If you’re looking for more creative chicken recipes, check out our perfect chicken Alfredo recipe for another easy and delicious dinner idea.