Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

If you’re in the mood for a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings a little heat and a whole lot of savory goodness to your table, Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is the recipe for you. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Peru, this dish features tender, juicy roasted chicken paired with a tangy and creamy green sauce that packs a punch with a kick of spice and freshness. The combination of bold spices, aromatic herbs, and that oh-so-delicious sauce will have you coming back for more. Trust me, this one is going to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Flavor Explosion:

This dish is bursting with flavor from every angle. The chicken is marinated in a mix of spices that enhance its natural juiciness, while the green sauce takes it over the top with its bold, creamy texture and punchy tang. It’s the kind of meal that makes every bite feel like a celebration.

Versatile:

Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a casual weeknight meal, or a special occasion, this Peruvian chicken fits the bill. It pairs beautifully with rice, potatoes, or a simple salad, making it a perfect dish to impress your guests or enjoy as a comforting meal for yourself.

Quick and Easy:

While it might look and taste gourmet, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare. The marinade is quick to whip up, and roasting the chicken is a hands-off process. The green sauce is easy to make and adds the perfect final touch to the dish. You’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in no time.

Customizable:

The green sauce has some heat, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking. Don’t love cilantro? No problem! You can reduce it or even swap it for parsley to suit your taste. It’s a dish that can be tailored to your preferences.

Healthy and Hearty:

Packed with protein, fresh herbs, and flavorful spices, this dish is both satisfying and healthy. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something that’s not only delicious but also nourishing.

Ingredients in Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Let’s break it down—this dish might sound fancy, but it’s made with a handful of ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• Whole Chicken or Chicken Thighs: You can use either a whole chicken or bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. The thighs are juicy and flavorful, but if you prefer a whole chicken, go for it!
• Olive Oil: To coat the chicken and help the spices stick.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring depth to the marinade.
• Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and a subtle earthiness to the chicken.
• Paprika: A little smokiness and color.
• Chili Powder: To add just the right amount of spice.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens up the marinade and tenderizes the chicken.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

For the Green Sauce:

• Fresh Cilantro: This is the heart of the sauce! It gives it that fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Jalapeño: For a little heat. You can remove the seeds if you prefer a milder sauce.
• Garlic: Adds a kick of flavor to the sauce as well.
• Mayonnaise: Creamy base that makes the sauce rich and smooth.
• Greek Yogurt: Adds tang and helps balance out the richness of the mayo.
• Lime Juice: To brighten up the sauce and give it that fresh, zesty flavor.
• Olive Oil: For extra creaminess and to help blend everything together.
• Salt: To taste.

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

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Rub the marinade all over the chicken, making sure to coat every nook and cranny. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Roast the Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a roasting pan. Roast for 35-45 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken or thighs, until the skin is crispy and golden, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Make the Green Sauce:

While the chicken is roasting, combine the cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and olive oil in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, adding salt to taste. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a little water or more lime juice to adjust the consistency.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once the chicken is cooked through and beautifully golden, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle the green sauce over the chicken, or serve it on the side for dipping. Pair with rice, potatoes, or a simple salad, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 400
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrate: 4g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 40g
Vitamin A: 6%
Vitamin C: 25%
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 10%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
• Total Time: 45-55 minutes

How to Serve Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

With Rice or Quinoa:

Serve this flavorful chicken alongside some fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all the delicious green sauce. A bit of cilantro-lime rice would complement the flavors perfectly.

With Roasted Vegetables:

For a wholesome meal, pair the chicken with some roasted vegetables. Sweet potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers would be a beautiful match.

In a Salad:

Shred the chicken and toss it into a salad for a lighter option. Pair it with a creamy avocado dressing or a fresh lime vinaigrette to keep the flavor profile intact.

As a Sandwich:

Take this meal to the next level by making a sandwich or wrap. Serve the chicken and green sauce on soft bread, pita, or tortillas, and add some fresh veggies for crunch.

Additional Tips

• Marinating: For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. However, if you have time, marinating for a few hours (or overnight) will make the flavors even more pronounced.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder sauce, use less jalapeño or remove the seeds. For more heat, add an extra jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Make it Spicy: For a spicier chicken, add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade.
• Grill the Chicken: If you want to add a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of roasting it. This will also give the chicken a nice char and enhance the flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?
A1: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Q2: Can I use a different type of green sauce?
A2: You can certainly use other green sauces like chimichurri or even a store-bought cilantro lime dressing. However, the creamy, tangy sauce in this recipe really brings out the flavors of the chicken.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The green sauce can also be stored separately for up to 4 days.

Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A4: Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance, and the green sauce can also be made ahead. Just refrigerate both until you’re ready to cook and serve.

Q5: Can I freeze the chicken?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Just make sure it’s well wrapped or stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Q6: Can I make the green sauce without mayo?
A6: Yes! You can substitute the mayo with additional Greek yogurt or even sour cream if you prefer a different creamy base.

Q7: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A7: The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using chicken thighs, check for clear juices when pierced with a fork.

Q8: Can I add other spices to the chicken marinade?
A8: Absolutely! Feel free to add cumin, turmeric, or coriander to the marinade for an extra boost of flavor.

Q9: Can I serve this with a different sauce?
A9: Of course! While the green sauce is a traditional complement, you can switch it up with other sauces like tzatziki or even a simple garlic butter sauce.

Q10: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A10: Yes! All of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a dish that brings together bold flavors, fresh herbs, and a touch of spice. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and sure to wow anyone you serve it to. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or something to impress your guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s become such a beloved dish in Peruvian cuisine!

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