This Peruvian grilled chicken is a show-stopper, delivering bold smoky flavors from its perfectly marinated thighs paired with a tangy, creamy green sauce. The aji verde, with its blend of jalapeños, cilantro, and lime, creates a vibrant contrast to the savory chicken, making every bite irresistible. Ideal for summer grilling or casual family dinners, this dish combines ease of preparation with gourmet flavors. Whether served with cilantro-lime rice, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your guests and transport your taste buds to Peru.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 5 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Black pepper to taste
For the Green Sauce:
- 3 jalapeños, seeded, ribs removed, and roughly chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 green onions (green parts only), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Blend garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, oregano, and a pinch of black pepper in a blender until smooth.
- Place chicken in a large Ziploc bag. Pour in the marinade and seal the bag, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Refrigerate for 8–24 hours.
- Prepare the Green Sauce:
- Blend all sauce ingredients, except olive oil, in a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending to emulsify. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (about 350°F).
- Remove chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Grill for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Alternative Cooking Methods:
- Oven: Preheat to 500°F. Place chicken in a roasting pan with 1 cup water. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Tent with foil and bake another 15 minutes until fully cooked.
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 360°F. Cook chicken thighs for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Marinate: 8–24 hours | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 8 hours 25 minutes
Kcal: 731 kcal | Servings: 4
Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce: A Culinary Journey to Peru
Peruvian Grilled Chicken, also known as Pollo a la Brasa, is a flavorful dish that has captivated food enthusiasts worldwide. This dish exemplifies the rich culinary traditions of Peru, where vibrant spices and fresh ingredients are combined to create meals that are not only delicious but also culturally significant. Served alongside a creamy green sauce known as aji verde, this recipe is the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and herby flavors, making it a must-try for any food lover.
The Origins of Pollo a la Brasa
Pollo a la Brasa, which translates to “grilled chicken” in Spanish, originated in Peru as a humble meal prepared using simple yet flavorful marinades. Traditionally cooked over an open flame on a rotisserie, the dish has evolved over time to include diverse cooking methods while still maintaining its authentic taste. It’s a staple in Peruvian households and is often enjoyed as a communal dish, symbolizing togetherness and the joy of sharing good food.
The hallmark of this dish lies in its marinade, which typically features a blend of lime juice, garlic, and a medley of spices like cumin and paprika. This mixture not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with bold flavors that set it apart from other grilled chicken recipes.
The Role of Aji Verde
No discussion about Peruvian grilled chicken is complete without mentioning aji verde. This creamy green sauce is an essential accompaniment that elevates the dish to a new level. Made with ingredients like cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, and Greek yogurt, the sauce strikes the perfect balance between heat, tanginess, and creaminess. While traditionally served with chicken, aji verde is incredibly versatile and pairs well with roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even as a salad dressing.
The vibrant green color of the sauce is as inviting as its flavor, making it a standout on any dining table. It’s not just a condiment but a signature element that captures the essence of Peruvian cuisine.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This recipe combines the best of traditional flavors with modern cooking techniques, making it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. By using boneless, skinless chicken thighs, the dish cooks faster while retaining its juiciness. The marinade is simple yet effective, allowing the natural flavors of the chicken to shine through without being overpowered.
The use of a grill, oven, or air fryer provides flexibility, ensuring that the recipe can be prepared in any kitchen. Each method offers a unique texture and flavor profile, whether it’s the smoky char from a grill or the tender, evenly cooked results of an oven or air fryer.
The inclusion of aji verde as a dipping sauce or drizzle enhances the overall dining experience. The creaminess of the sauce complements the smoky and tangy flavors of the chicken, creating a harmonious balance that delights the palate.
Tips for Serving and Pairing
This Peruvian Grilled Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it with:
- Cilantro-lime rice: A refreshing side that mirrors the citrusy notes of the chicken.
- Grilled vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add a smoky, caramelized element to the dish.
- Wedge salad: Crisp lettuce with a creamy dressing offers a cool contrast to the bold flavors.
- Plantain chips or sweet potato fries: These add a touch of sweetness that complements the spice in the sauce.
For beverages, consider pairing the dish with a light and acidic wine such as Vinho Verde, or a chilled beer for a more casual dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a tangy limeade or a glass of sparkling water with a splash of citrus would be equally delightful.
Cultural Significance and Adaptability
Pollo a la Brasa is more than just a meal; it’s a reflection of Peruvian heritage. Its origins as a simple, rotisserie-style dish have transformed into a beloved recipe that is now enjoyed internationally. The flavors of this dish transcend borders, making it a popular choice in restaurants and home kitchens alike.
One of the reasons for its widespread appeal is its adaptability. While this recipe calls for chicken thighs, you can easily use other cuts like breasts, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken. The marinade and sauce are also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the heat level or swap ingredients to suit your preferences. For example, replacing jalapeños with serrano peppers in the sauce adds extra heat, while using parsley instead of cilantro caters to those with cilantro sensitivities.
A Dish for All Occasions
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or planning a meal for a special occasion, this Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is a fantastic choice. Its bold flavors and eye-catching presentation make it a crowd-pleaser, while its ease of preparation ensures that you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours.
The dish also lends itself well to meal prep, as the chicken can be marinated ahead of time and the sauce made in advance. This convenience makes it ideal for busy households or anyone looking to plan meals ahead for the week.
Conclusion:
Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the rich flavors and vibrant traditions of Peruvian cuisine. From its zesty marinade to its creamy, herbaceous dipping sauce, every element of this dish is designed to delight the senses. Its adaptability, ease of preparation, and cultural significance make it a standout recipe that deserves a place in your cooking repertoire.
Whether you’re introducing your family to new flavors, impressing guests at a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to deliver. So fire up your grill, whip up some aji verde, and let the flavors of Peru transport you to a world of culinary adventure.
