If you’re in the mood for a burst of flavor and a dish that will make your taste buds dance, look no further than this Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce. Tender, juicy chicken paired with a creamy, zesty green sauce—it’s comfort food with a twist! Every bite is a mix of smoky, tangy, and herby goodness that will transport you straight to Peru. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Name: Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: PT-484693H10M46S
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 8 pieces chicken (bone-in, skin-on thighs and drumsticks); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ground cumin; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (with tender stems); 1–2 jalapeño peppers (seeded for less heat, if desired); 1 garlic clove; Juice of 1 lime; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt); 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt, to taste

This dish is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s bold and vibrant, yet comforting at the same time. Here’s why you’re going to love it:

Versatile: Serve it with rice, roasted potatoes, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality dish without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a show-stopping meal ready in no time.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the sauce or seasonings to suit your tastes, whether you want it spicier or milder.
Crowd-Pleasing: This dish has a little something for everyone—spicy, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s a guaranteed hit!

Ingredients

Ingredients in Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

This dish might look fancy, but it’s made with everyday ingredients that come together in a truly magical way:

Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The base of the dish, juicy and tender, ready to soak up all those bold flavors.
Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and giving it a nice golden crust.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a savory, aromatic depth that’s key to the flavor profile.
Lemon: For a burst of citrusy freshness in both the chicken and the green sauce.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herby flavor that’s essential for the sauce.
Jalapeño: A little heat to kick things up! You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the green sauce that brings everything together.
Greek Yogurt: Adds a bit of tang and creaminess to the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
Lime: For extra citrusy zing in the green sauce.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, ensuring all the flavors are perfectly balanced.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by heating your skillet or pan over medium-high heat. This helps achieve a golden crust on your chicken.

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a little bit of lemon juice. Coat the chicken in olive oil and place it in the hot skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.

Make the Green Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, make the green sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is done, plate it and drizzle the vibrant green sauce generously over the top. You can serve it with a side of rice or roasted potatoes to make the meal even more satisfying.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories

(Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Serve it with a side of fluffy white rice to soak up all the delicious green sauce.
Try roasted potatoes for a crispy, hearty side that complements the tender chicken.
A light cucumber and tomato salad would add a fresh crunch to balance the richness of the dish.
For a more traditional touch, serve with fried plantains for a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

Additional Tips

If you want extra heat, don’t remove the seeds from the jalapeño or add another pepper for more spice.
Make sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in all the juices.
The green sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try swapping it out with parsley for a milder herb flavor.
For extra richness, top the chicken with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use chicken wings or drumsticks instead of breasts or thighs?
Yes! Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

2. Can I make the green sauce without mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace mayonnaise with sour cream or a bit of extra Greek yogurt.

3. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Add more jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce to ramp up the heat.

4. Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture, but you can use frozen chicken—just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking.

5. What should I serve this dish with?
It pairs beautifully with rice, roasted potatoes, or even a simple green salad for a lighter option.

6. Can I use a different type of nut for the green sauce?
While traditional recipes don’t call for nuts, you could experiment by adding a bit of roasted almonds or cashews for extra creaminess.

7. Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it?
Grilling the chicken will give it a smoky flavor and crispy exterior, which works wonderfully with the sauce.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken and sauce in advance, but it’s best to assemble and serve the dish fresh for the best texture.

9. Can I use bottled green sauce instead of making my own?
While homemade sauce tastes fresher, you can use store-bought green sauce in a pinch for a quicker meal.

10. Can I make the green sauce spicier?
Definitely! Add extra jalapeños or even a few dashes of chili powder for more heat.

Conclusion

This Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a show-stopper, bringing together bold, vibrant flavors in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress. The creamy green sauce is the star of the show, turning simple chicken into a flavor-packed masterpiece. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and savor every bite!

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

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Author: ikram
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Main Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: Peruvian
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru with this succulent roasted chicken, marinated in garlic, lime, and spices, and served with a refreshing green sauce (aji verde) made from cilantro, jalapeño, and lime. Perfect for a family dinner or a festive meal, this dish offers a delightful balance of tangy, spicy, and savory notes.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken pieces. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Roast the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased roasting pan.
- Roast for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden, the skin is crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Prepare the Green Sauce:
- In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend until smooth, tasting and adjusting salt or lime juice as needed.

Serve:
- Plate the roasted chicken and drizzle or serve alongside the green sauce. Enjoy with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.