Peruvian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its vibrant flavors, unique ingredients, and mouthwatering dishes that blend indigenous traditions with influences from Spain, Africa, and Asia. Among the jewels of this rich culinary heritage is Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce — a dish bursting with smoky, tangy, and herbaceous notes that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Peru.
This recipe features juicy, perfectly roasted chicken paired with a bright, creamy, and spicy green sauce known as Aji Verde. Together, they create an irresistible combination that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, craving something new for your weeknight rotation, or simply love bold flavors, Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a must-try.
What Is Peruvian Chicken?
Peruvian Chicken, or Pollo a la Brasa, is traditionally marinated in a blend of spices, garlic, citrus, and herbs, then roasted to juicy perfection, often over charcoal or rotisserie. The marinade typically includes ingredients like cumin, paprika, garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar, giving the chicken a smoky, tangy, and savory profile.
While the authentic method involves roasting the whole bird, many home cooks prepare this dish using chicken pieces or thighs, making it more accessible and easy to cook in any kitchen.
The Magic of Peruvian Green Sauce (Aji Verde)
The true star that elevates Peruvian Chicken is the vibrant Aji Verde, or green sauce. This creamy condiment is made from fresh cilantro, jalapeños or aji amarillo peppers, garlic, lime juice, and mayonnaise or sour cream, blended into a smooth, zesty sauce with a kick of heat.
Aji Verde balances the richness of the roasted chicken with fresh, herbal brightness and a touch of spice, creating layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more. It’s versatile enough to use as a dip, drizzle, or marinade and pairs beautifully with rice, fries, or salads.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- Chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or a whole chicken cut up)
- Garlic cloves
- Ground cumin
- Smoked paprika or regular paprika
- Soy sauce
- Apple cider vinegar or lime juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
For the Green Sauce (Aji Verde):
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Jalapeños or aji amarillo peppers (seeded for less heat)
- Garlic cloves
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt/sour cream
- Lime juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
How to Make Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine minced garlic, cumin, paprika, soy sauce, vinegar or lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with this flavorful marinade. For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight in the fridge to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
2. Roast the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet or roasting pan, skin-side up. Roast for about 35-45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, juicy, and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
3. Prepare the Green Sauce (Aji Verde)
While the chicken roasts, combine fresh cilantro, jalapeños or aji amarillo, garlic, mayonnaise, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning and heat level to your taste by adding more lime juice or jalapeños.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the roasted chicken hot, generously drizzled with or dipped into the vibrant green sauce. Pair it with classic sides like Peruvian-style rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken: This keeps the meat juicy and flavorful while the skin crisps up beautifully.
- Marinate overnight: Gives the chicken time to soak up all the spices and citrus notes.
- Adjust the spice level: Remove seeds from jalapeños for milder sauce or add more peppers if you love heat.
- Make the green sauce fresh: The bright flavors shine best when made just before serving.
- Experiment with smoky paprika: Adds depth and a hint of smoky flavor reminiscent of traditional rotisserie methods.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a celebration of vibrant, bold flavors balanced with comforting textures. It’s perfect for anyone looking to explore new cuisines or add a healthy, protein-packed meal to their repertoire. The combination of crispy, juicy chicken with a creamy, zesty sauce makes every bite exciting.
Moreover, this recipe is flexible — great for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, so you can customize it to your liking.
Final Thoughts
Bringing a taste of Peru to your kitchen, Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce offers an unforgettable flavor journey that’s both accessible and impressive. With its tender, marinated chicken and addictive green sauce, this dish will quickly become a favorite for you and your loved ones.
Ready to impress with a dish that’s as delicious as it is colorful? Give this recipe a try and savor the authentic tastes of Peru from your own home!