Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce, or Pollo a la Brasa con Aji Verde, is a beloved dish in Peru that features perfectly seasoned, roasted chicken served with a vibrant and spicy green sauce known as Aji Verde. The chicken is marinated with a variety of spices and herbs, then roasted to a crispy perfection. The Aji Verde sauce, a flavorful blend of cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, and creamy ingredients like mayonnaise and sour cream, is served on the side for dipping. It’s a tantalizing combination of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks (or whole chicken if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
For the Aji Verde sauce:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2-3 fresh jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat, if desired)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the chicken:
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, lime juice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a marinade.
- Rub the marinade all over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably, for a few hours in the fridge for maximum flavor.
- Cook the chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet or roasting pan. Roast for about 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C). You can also grill the chicken if you prefer a smoky flavor.
- Make the Aji Verde sauce:
- In a food processor or blender, combine cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth, adding a bit of water if the sauce is too thick. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the roasted chicken with a generous drizzle of Aji Verde sauce on the side for dipping. It pairs well with rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy this flavorful and spicy Peruvian-inspired dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next meal!
