Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe

This Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a flavorful and juicy dish inspired by the traditional Pollo a la Brasa. The chicken is marinated in a blend of bold spices and roasted to perfection, while the tangy green sauce, made with cilantro, jalapeños, and lime, adds the perfect kick. It’s a deliciously vibrant meal that can be enjoyed with rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Recipe Overview

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 1 hour marinating time)
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories: ~380 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breasts if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

For the Green Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 small jalapeño, seeded (for less heat)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1-2 tablespoons lime juice (to taste)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons water (for thinning, if needed)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, turmeric, salt, pepper, lime juice, and vinegar. Add the chicken thighs (or breasts) and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.

2. Prepare the Green Sauce:
While the chicken marinates, prepare the green sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, jalapeño, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding a little water as needed to thin out the sauce to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more lime juice, salt, or pepper if necessary.

3. Roast the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. Place the marinated chicken pieces on the baking sheet, skin side up, and roast in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

4. Serve the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve the chicken with a generous drizzle of the tangy green sauce on top or on the side for dipping.

5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, if desired. Serve with sides like rice, roasted potatoes, or a green salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

• With Rice: Pair the chicken with fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty, comforting meal.
• With Potatoes: Serve alongside roasted potatoes or crispy French fries for a deliciously satisfying side.
• With Salad: A fresh side salad with avocado, tomatoes, and red onion complements the flavors of the chicken perfectly.

Tips & Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust the heat of the green sauce by adding more or fewer jalapeños or seeds. You can also add a small piece of avocado to the sauce for a milder, creamier texture.
• Grill the Chicken: For a smoky flavor, you can grill the chicken instead of roasting it in the oven. Grill over medium heat for about 30-35 minutes, turning occasionally.
• Make it a Complete Meal: Pair the chicken with a side of sautéed vegetables, such as corn or bell peppers, to complete the meal.
• Leftovers: This chicken is just as delicious the next day! Use leftovers for tacos, wraps, or in a salad.

Storage & Reheating

• Store: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the skin will not be as crispy.

This Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Peru to your table. The combination of roasted chicken with the zesty, creamy green sauce makes for a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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