Introduction to Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce
Welcome to my kitchen, where flavors dance and every meal tells a story! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors that can brighten even the busiest of days. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution after a long day or a dish to impress your loved ones, this recipe has got you covered. With its zesty green sauce and juicy chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!
Why You’ll Love This Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce
This Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce is a game-changer for busy weeknights! It’s quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The flavors are bold yet comforting, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, the green sauce adds a fresh twist that elevates the dish. You’ll find yourself craving it again and again, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast or thighs: Choose your favorite cut. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.
- Olive oil: This adds richness and helps the chicken cook beautifully.
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavors and tenderizes the chicken.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a punch of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Cumin: This warm spice adds depth and a hint of earthiness.
- Paprika: For a touch of smokiness and vibrant color.
- Oregano: Dried oregano gives a lovely herbal note to the marinade.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Mayo: This creamy base for the green sauce can be swapped with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Fresh cilantro: Packed with flavor, it’s the star of the green sauce.
- Jalapeños: These add a kick! Seed them for less heat if you prefer.
- Parmesan: Grated parmesan adds a savory richness to the sauce.
- Honey or sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the sauce perfectly.
- Aji amarillo paste (optional): This Peruvian chili paste adds a unique flavor and heat.
- Cooked rice: A perfect base for serving the chicken and sauce.
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish): A sprinkle of chopped cilantro brightens up the dish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making this delicious Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This marinade is the heart of the dish, infusing the chicken with flavor. I love to whisk it all together until it’s well blended. The aroma is simply irresistible!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Take your chicken and coat it evenly with the marinade. I usually use my hands for this, making sure every piece is covered. Then, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating overnight works wonders! It allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making the chicken even tastier.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 5–7 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. I always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial for juicy results!
Step 4: Make the Green Sauce
While the chicken is resting, it’s time to whip up the green sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine mayo, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, parmesan, and honey. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add water a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This sauce is the star of the show!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the rested chicken and place it over a bed of warm rice. Drizzle generously with the vibrant green sauce. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for that extra pop of color and flavor. Now, dig in and enjoy every bite of your homemade Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce! Trust me, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Tips for Success
- Use chicken thighs for juicier results; they won’t dry out as easily.
- Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Adjust the heat in the green sauce by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
- For extra creaminess, mix in a bit of sour cream or avocado in the sauce.
- Serve with crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for marinating the chicken. A zip-top bag works too!
- Skillet or grill: For cooking the chicken. An oven can also do the trick.
- Blender or food processor: Essential for making the green sauce. A whisk can work in a pinch!
- Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.
Variations
- Grilled Vegetables: Add some grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a colorful twist.
- Spicy Version: Incorporate more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the marinade for extra heat.
- Herb Swap: Try using parsley or basil instead of cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a lighter meal.
- Vegan Alternative: Substitute chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious green sauce.
- Serve alongside crispy fries or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
- For drinks, a chilled Pisco Sour or refreshing lemonade complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant presentation.
FAQs about Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce
What is Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce?
Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce is a flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken served with a zesty green sauce made from cilantro, jalapeños, and mayo. It’s a popular meal in Peru, known for its vibrant flavors and comforting appeal.
Can I make the green sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the green sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when you’re ready to serve your Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like sauces or condiments, are also gluten-free if you’re serving it to someone with dietary restrictions.
What can I serve with Peruvian Chicken?
For a complete meal, serve your chicken over fluffy rice or quinoa. You can also pair it with crispy fries or a fresh salad. The green sauce adds a delightful kick to any side dish!
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Definitely! You can substitute chicken with marinated tofu, tempeh, or even fish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of the Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce in various ways!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a joyful experience in your kitchen. The vibrant flavors and the aroma of the marinade fill your home with warmth and excitement. Each bite is a delightful journey, transporting you to the heart of Peru. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, this dish brings smiles and satisfaction. I hope you find as much joy in making and savoring this recipe as I do. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and flavor!
Print
Peruvian Chicken With Green Sauce: A Flavorful Recipe!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful recipe for Peruvian Chicken with a zesty green sauce, perfect for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5–2 lbs chicken breast or thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup mayo (or half mayo & half Greek yogurt)
- 1 cup fresh cilantro (packed)
- 2–3 jalapeños (seeded for less heat)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: 1–2 tsp aji amarillo paste
- Cooked rice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (garnish)
Instructions
- Mix all chicken marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Coat chicken evenly and marinate for 30 minutes to overnight.
- Preheat skillet or grill to medium-high.
- Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Add all sauce ingredients to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning or thickness by adding water 1 tsp at a time if too thick.
- Place chicken slices over warm rice.
- Drizzle generously with green sauce.
- Garnish with cilantro.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier results.
- Add a bit of sour cream or avocado for extra creaminess in the sauce.
- Serve with fries or salad — very traditional!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
