Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce, or “Pollo a la Brasa con Aji Verde,” is a flavorful and juicy roasted chicken dish served with a vibrant, creamy green sauce. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices, citrus, and garlic, while the aji verde adds a spicy, tangy kick that perfectly complements the savory meat. This dish is bold, aromatic, and perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

ingredients

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce (Aji Verde)

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

For the Chicken

chicken thighs or whole chicken
olive oil
garlic cloves
soy sauce
lime juice
white vinegar
smoked paprika
cumin
oregano
black pepper
salt

For the Aji Verde (Green Sauce)

fresh cilantro
jalapeños or aji amarillo peppers
garlic cloves
mayonnaise
lime juice
olive oil
white vinegar
salt
optional: cotija cheese or Parmesan for richness

directions

Blend all the marinade ingredients until smooth.

Rub the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.

Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight for best flavor.

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a grill to medium-high.

Roast or grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and browned, about 35-45 minutes depending on cut.

While the chicken cooks, blend all the green sauce ingredients until creamy and smooth. Adjust salt and lime to taste.

Serve the chicken hot with a generous drizzle of the green sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 6 hours or overnight
Cooking time: 35-45 minutes
Total time: About 7 hours including marination

Variations

Use aji amarillo paste instead of jalapeños for an authentic Peruvian heat.
Add Greek yogurt to the green sauce for a lighter version.
Try it with chicken drumsticks or wings for party-friendly portions.
Add a pinch of sugar or honey to balance out the spice in the sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
The green sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Reheat chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

What does Peruvian chicken taste like?
It has a smoky, tangy, garlicky flavor with a touch of spice from the marinade.

Is Aji Verde very spicy?
It can be, depending on the peppers used. Adjust the heat by removing pepper seeds or using milder chiles.

Can I make this with boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless thighs or breasts can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is the green sauce dairy-free?
Yes, if you omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What can I serve with Peruvian chicken?
Rice, roasted potatoes, salad, or fried plantains pair perfectly.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, freeze before cooking and thaw in the fridge before roasting or grilling.

Can I use a blender instead of a food processor for the sauce?
Absolutely, both work well for aji verde.

How can I make it less spicy?
Use fewer peppers or substitute with a milder green chile.

Can I grill instead of roast?
Yes, grilling adds extra smokiness and works great for this dish.

Does this recipe work for meal prep?
Yes, both the chicken and sauce store and reheat well, making it ideal for meal planning.

Conclusion

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a vibrant and satisfying dish packed with flavor and cultural flair. Whether you’re roasting for a family dinner or grilling for a gathering, this recipe is a delicious way to bring bold Peruvian taste to your table. Don’t skip the sauce—it’s what makes the dish unforgettable.