Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce: A Flavor-Packed Recipe for Your Next BBQ

If you’re looking to add some international flair to your next barbecue or family dinner, look no further than this Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce recipe. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining tender, marinated chicken thighs with a zesty, herbaceous green sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. With a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, vibrant dishes.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this Peruvian Chicken Recipe, from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips for achieving the perfect flavor and texture. Plus, we’ll dive into the history of Peruvian cuisine and why this dish is so beloved. Let’s get started!

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Why You’ll Love This Peruvian Chicken Recipe

Peruvian cuisine is known for its unique blend of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences, resulting in dishes that are rich in flavor and history. This Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is no exception. Here’s why it’s a standout:

1. Bold Flavors: The marinade, made with garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, and spices, infuses the chicken with a deep, savory taste.
2. Creamy Green Sauce: The sauce, featuring jalapeños, cilantro, and Greek yogurt, adds a fresh, tangy kick that complements the smoky chicken perfectly.
3. Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you grill or bake the chicken, the results are equally delicious.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, weekend barbecues, or even meal prep.

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Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

To make this Peruvian Chicken Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds chicken thighs (boneless, skinless): Thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts, making them ideal for grilling.
• 5 cloves garlic (peeled): Garlic is a key ingredient in Peruvian cuisine, adding depth to the marinade.
• 1/3 cup soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to the marinade.
• 2 Tablespoons lime juice: Provides acidity and brightness.
• 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Helps the marinade adhere to the chicken.
• 2 teaspoons cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Contributes a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Enhances the overall savory profile.
• Black pepper: For a hint of spice.

For the Creamy Green Sauce:

• 3 jalapeños (seeded, ribs removed, and roughly chopped): Adds a mild heat.
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves: Brings a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• 2 green onions (chopped, green parts only): Adds a mild onion flavor and vibrant color.
• 2 cloves garlic (peeled): Enhances the sauce’s savory notes.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base.
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and creaminess.
• 1 Tablespoon lime juice: Brightens the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick.
• 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Helps emulsify the sauce.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a blender, combine the garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, oregano, and a pinch of black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a large ziploc bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken to ensure even coating.
3. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Green Sauce

1. In a blender, combine the jalapeños, cilantro, green onions, garlic, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to emulsify the sauce.
3. Transfer the sauce to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Grilling Method:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 350°F).
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess.
3. Place the chicken on the grill grates and cook for 5-6 minutes with the lid closed.
4. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Oven Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 500°F.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a 13×9-inch roasting pan and add 1 cup of water to the pan.
3. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, then tent the pan with foil and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Drizzle the creamy green sauce over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.
3. Pair with sides like roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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The Magic of Peruvian Chicken Marinade

The secret to the incredible flavor of Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce lies in its marinade. This marinade is a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and smoky ingredients that work together to infuse the chicken with depth and complexity. Let’s break down the key components:

Garlic: A staple in Peruvian cuisine, garlic adds a robust, savory base to the marinade. It’s not just a flavor enhancer; it also helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicier and more succulent.

Soy Sauce: This ingredient, influenced by Asian culinary traditions, brings umami and saltiness to the mix. It’s the backbone of the marinade, ensuring the chicken is well-seasoned throughout.

Lime Juice: The acidity of lime juice not only brightens the marinade but also helps break down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a more tender texture. It adds a refreshing tang that balances the richness of the other ingredients.

Cumin and Paprika: These spices are essential for achieving the smoky, earthy flavor profile that defines Peruvian chicken. Cumin adds warmth, while paprika contributes a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.

Dried Oregano: This herb enhances the marinade with its aromatic, slightly bitter notes, tying all the flavors together.

The marinade is blended into a smooth paste, ensuring every bite of chicken is evenly coated. Marinating the chicken for at least 8 hours (or up to 24 hours) allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with taste. Whether you’re grilling or baking, this marinade guarantees a flavorful, juicy outcome every time.

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 The Creamy Green Sauce – A Peruvian Staple

No Peruvian Chicken Recipe is complete without its iconic Creamy Green Sauce, also known as Aji Verde. This vibrant sauce is the perfect accompaniment to the smoky, marinated chicken, adding a fresh, tangy, and slightly spicy kick. Here’s what makes it so special:

Jalapeños: These peppers provide a mild heat that’s balanced by the other ingredients. Removing the seeds and ribs ensures the sauce isn’t overly spicy, making it accessible to all palates.

Cilantro: Known for its bright, herbaceous flavor, cilantro is the star of the sauce. It adds a refreshing quality that complements the richness of the chicken.

Green Onions: These contribute a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, enhancing the sauce’s visual appeal and taste.

Garlic: Just like in the marinade, garlic adds depth and savoriness to the sauce.

Mayonnaise and Greek Yogurt: These ingredients create a creamy, velvety texture. The mayonnaise adds richness, while the Greek yogurt introduces a tangy note that balances the sauce.

Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice brightens the sauce, tying all the flavors together and adding a zesty finish.

The sauce is blended until smooth, with olive oil drizzled in to emulsify and thicken it. The result is a versatile condiment that’s not only perfect for Peruvian chicken but also great as a dip for vegetables, a spread for sandwiches, or a topping for grilled meats.

 Cooking Methods – Grill vs. Oven

One of the best things about this Peruvian Chicken Recipe is its versatility. Whether you prefer grilling or baking, both methods yield delicious results. Here’s a closer look at each:

Grilling: Grilling is the traditional method for cooking Peruvian chicken, and it’s perfect for achieving that smoky, charred flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 350°F) and cook the chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes on each side. The high heat sears the outside, locking in the juices and creating a slightly crispy exterior. Grilling also allows the marinade to caramelize, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Baking: If you don’t have access to a grill, baking is an excellent alternative. Preheat your oven to 500°F and place the chicken in a roasting pan with a cup of water to keep it moist. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, then tent with foil and cook for an additional 15 minutes. This method ensures the chicken is evenly cooked and tender, with a slightly softer texture compared to grilling.

Both methods require the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked. Whichever method you choose, you’ll end up with a flavorful, juicy dish that pairs perfectly with the creamy green sauce.

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The History of Peruvian Chicken

Peruvian chicken, or Pollo a la Brasa, is a beloved dish in Peru and beyond. It originated in the 1950s in Lima, where it was first served in rotisserie-style restaurants. The dish quickly gained popularity for its smoky, flavorful meat and signature green sauce, known as Aji Verde.

The marinade typically includes soy sauce, garlic, and spices, reflecting the influence of Chinese and Japanese immigrants in Peru. The green sauce, made with jalapeños, cilantro, and lime, adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich, smoky chicken.

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Nutritional Information

This Peruvian Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 731kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 39g
• Fat: 60g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 155mg
• Sodium: 1691mg
• Potassium: 509mg
• Sugar: 2g
• Vitamin A: 925IU
• Vitamin C: 21.6mg
• Calcium: 60mg
• Iron: 3.1mg

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Final Thoughts

This Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is a flavorful, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or baking indoors, the combination of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors is sure to impress. Plus, the creamy green sauce adds a refreshing touch that ties everything together.