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I fell in love with Peruvian Chicken during my travels and had to recreate it at home! These juicy marinated chicken thighs paired with that vibrant green sauce (aji verde) have become my go-to when I want to impress guests. The combination of spices fresh herbs and creamy sauce brings restaurant-worthy flavors right to your kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
Trust me this isn't your average chicken dinner! The marinade infuses so much flavor and that green sauce... I could eat it by the spoonful. What I love most is how you can prep everything ahead making it perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties.
A Taste of Peru
If you've never had Pollo a la Brasa you're in for a treat! The chicken gets this amazing smoky flavor from the marinade and that creamy spicy aji verde sauce takes it over the top. It's comfort food with a Peruvian twist.
Green Sauce Magic
- Jalapeños: I leave some seeds in for heat adjust to your taste!
- Cilantro: Fresh bunches make the sauce sing.
- Green Onions: Just the green parts for perfect balance.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves no shortcuts here.
- Mayonnaise: Creates that silky texture.
- Greek Yogurt: My secret for tanginess.
- Lime Juice: Fresh squeezed only please!
- Olive Oil: Makes everything smooth.
- Salt + Pepper: To taste always.
Creating The Magic Sauce
Here's where the magic happens! Everything except the oil goes into your blender then while it's running drizzle in that olive oil until you've got the smoothest dreamiest sauce. Pop it in the fridge and let those flavors get to know each other.
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Marinade Must-Haves
- Fresh Garlic: I always crush mine by hand the flavor is incredible!
- Soy Sauce: Adds that perfect savory depth.
- Fresh Lime: Makes the chicken so tender.
- Good Olive Oil: Don't skimp here it matters.
- My Spice Blend: Cumin paprika oregano and fresh cracked pepper create that authentic Peruvian taste.
Marinating Magic
The secret to amazing flavor? Time! Pop your chicken in a zip bag with all those gorgeous marinade ingredients give it a good massage to coat every piece then let it hang out in the fridge. Trust me 8-24 hours makes all the difference.
Choose Your Cooking Method
- On the Grill
- My favorite way! That smoky char is unbeatable just keep an eye on the temperature.
- In the Oven
- Crank it up to 500°F for that crispy skin and juicy center.
- Air Fryer Magic
- Perfect when you're short on time still gets that amazing crispy exterior!
My Kitchen Secrets
Always use a meat thermometer it takes the guesswork out completely. Love spice? Try serrano peppers in your sauce instead of jalapeños. And if you're watching calories swap the mayo for extra yogurt the sauce is still incredible!
Perfect Pairings
We love this with fluffy rice or roasted veggies. Sometimes I'll pour a crisp glass of Vinho Verde the acidity pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. It's like a little vacation on a plate!
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Keeping It Fresh
Store your leftover chicken and sauce separately they'll stay perfect for days. When you're ready to enjoy warm the chicken in your oven or air fryer until it's crispy again. The sauce is actually even better the next day!
Mix It Up
Don't feel tied to chicken thighs breasts work beautifully too! Want authentic Peruvian flavor? Add some aji amarillo paste to your sauce. You can find it in Latin markets or online and it's a game changer.
Plan Ahead
Make your life easier by doing the prep work early. I often marinate my chicken overnight and whip up the sauce in the morning. Come dinner time everything's ready to go!
Good For You Too
This isn't just delicious it's packed with goodness! Lean protein from the chicken antioxidants from fresh herbs and probiotics from the yogurt. It's feel-good food that actually tastes amazing.
Serving With Style
I love serving this family-style on a big platter with the sauce in a pretty bowl alongside. Add some lime wedges fresh cilantro and maybe some warm tortillas. Everyone builds their perfect plate!
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Party Perfect
This has become my go-to for entertaining! Everything can be prepped ahead the presentation is gorgeous and that green sauce always gets people talking. Plus it works for both casual gatherings and fancy dinner parties.
Perfect Balance
What makes this dish special is how everything works together. The smoky spiced chicken the cool creamy sauce the fresh herbs it's a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Family Friendly
Got kids? Start with less heat in the sauce they can always add more later. I serve it with simple sides like rice or roasted potatoes and my little ones love it!
Success Tips
Don't rush the marinating time it really makes a difference. Blend that sauce until it's super smooth and always use fresh lime juice. These little details take your dish from good to amazing.
A New Family Favorite
This Peruvian Chicken has become more than just a recipe in our house it's our celebration dish our comfort food our taste of adventure. I hope it brings the same joy to your kitchen!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I marinate the chicken longer than 24 hours?
- It's not recommended to marinate longer than 24 hours as the acid in the marinade can start to break down the meat texture.
- → How spicy is the green sauce?
- The heat level is moderate and can be adjusted by keeping or removing jalapeño seeds and ribs. Remove more for milder sauce.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
- Yes, though thighs stay juicier. If using breasts, adjust cooking time and watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
- → How long does the green sauce keep?
- The sauce keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- → Can this be made ahead?
- The chicken can marinate overnight and the sauce can be made a day ahead. Perfect for planning ahead.