The Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is a delightful and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe highlights the vibrant flavors of Peru, featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in a garlic-infused sauce. When paired with the zesty Aji Verde, it becomes an unforgettable meal your family will love. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce
This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also brings convenience to your table.
- Bold Flavors: The marinade for the chicken combines garlic, spices, and soy sauce, creating a rich flavor profile that elevates each bite.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, you can have this delicious dish ready quickly.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or as part of a festive spread to suit any occasion.
- Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a go-to meal for family dinners.
- Meal Prep Friendly: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store the sauce in advance for an effortless meal on busy nights.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Blender
- Skillet
- Meat thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients and marinating chicken effectively.
- Blender: Creates a smooth Aji Verde sauce that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce, low sodium
- ½ cup olive oil, divided
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
For the Aji Verde Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 lemon or lime, juiced
- 1 cup cilantro
- 2 jalapeños, seeds removed
- 2 scallions, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper or to taste
How to Make Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, ¼ cup olive oil, lime juice, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss until they are well coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or up to 24 hours for better flavor infusion.
Step 2: Make the Aji Verde Sauce
- In a blender, add mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, cilantro, jalapeños (with seeds removed), scallions, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Blend on high until the mixture is smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add marinated chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F by using a meat thermometer (approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side).
Step 4: Serve
Serve your grilled chicken with Aji Verde sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful Peruvian grilled chicken!
How to Serve Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce
Serving Peruvian grilled chicken with creamy green sauce is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes to enhance its bold flavors.
With Rice
- Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty flavors of cilantro and lime complement the chicken beautifully.
- Garlic Fried Rice: A savory option that adds an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
With Vegetables
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender offer a nutritious and colorful side.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned, grilled asparagus brings a fresh crunch to the plate.
With Salads
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
- Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices add healthy fats and a smooth texture to your meal.
How to Perfect Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce
To achieve the best results with your Peruvian grilled chicken, consider these helpful tips for flavor and texture.
- Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 24 hours enhances the flavors and makes it juicier.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and spices will elevate the taste of your marinade and sauce.
- Preheat your skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for that perfect sear.
- Check doneness carefully: Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking it.
- Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the chicken right after cooking while it’s still hot.
- Garnish generously: Fresh cilantro or lime wedges make for beautiful garnishes that add both flavor and appeal.
Best Side Dishes for Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Peruvian grilled chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, black beans, corn, and lime dressing adds protein and fiber.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter complements the spiciness of the Aji Verde sauce perfectly.
- Plantains: Fried or baked plantains offer a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances out the bold flavors in this dish while providing nutrients.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds freshness and crunch.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can result in bland flavors. Make sure to marinate for at least 12 hours for optimal taste.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many chicken thighs at once can lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Ignoring Internal Temperature: Failing to check that your chicken reaches 165°F can result in undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Not Adjusting Seasoning: Every ingredient varies in intensity. Always taste your marinade and aji verde sauce and adjust seasoning according to your preference.
- Making Sauce Ahead of Time: Preparing the Aji Verde too early can diminish its freshness. Aim to blend it shortly before serving for the best flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep Aji Verde sauce in a separate airtight container for freshness.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze cooked chicken without the sauce in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and heat chicken until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate; heat on medium power until thoroughly heated, usually about 2-3 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring not to dry it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What is Aji Verde sauce?
Aji Verde is a spicy green sauce made from cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice, perfect for dipping or drizzling over grilled meats.
How do I customize my Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce?
Feel free to add more spices or herbs to the marinade based on your taste preferences. You can also adjust the heat level of the Aji Verde by varying the number of jalapeños.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately until you’re ready to cook and serve.
What should I serve with this dish?
Peruvian Grilled Chicken pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is not only flavorful but also versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep options. Feel free to customize it with your favorite sides or spice levels. Enjoy this delicious dish any day of the week!
Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru with this Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce. This dish features juicy, marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and served with a zesty Aji Verde sauce that elevates every bite.
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 6 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- ½ cup olive oil (divided)
- 1 lime
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup cilantro
- 2 jalapeños
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix minced garlic, soy sauce, ¼ cup olive oil, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.
- Blend mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth to make Aji Verde sauce.
- Heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 3 to 4 minutes per side).
- Serve the grilled chicken drizzled with Aji Verde sauce or on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce (170g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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