Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

The Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Peru right to your kitchen. This recipe features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a blend of garlic, spices, and soy sauce, then grilled to perfection. Paired with a zesty Aji Verde sauce, it makes for an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. The bold flavors and easy preparation make this dish a must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests or enjoy a delicious weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

This dish is not just about taste; it’s about creating memorable meals.

• Bold Flavors: The marinade infuses the chicken with rich garlic and spice notes that burst in every bite.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal hands-on time, you can whip up this dish without stress.
• Versatile Serving Options: It pairs beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or even in tacos for a fun twist.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Marinade ahead of time and have an easy dinner ready whenever you need it.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for family meals or entertaining guests; everyone will love it!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make everything smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Blender
• Skillet
• Plastic wrap
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for creating the smooth and creamy Aji Verde sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken, allowing all flavors to meld together effectively.
• Skillet: Provides an excellent surface for searing the chicken, ensuring a golden brown crust while keeping it juicy inside.

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

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, ¼ cup olive oil, lime juice, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs into the bowl.
3. Toss until each piece of chicken is well coated in the marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap.
2. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 12 hours or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Make the Aji Verde Sauce

1. In a blender, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, cilantro, jalapeños, scallions, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend on high until smooth. Set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs into the skillet.
3. Cook each side until golden brown and cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (about 3–4 minutes per side).

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate your perfectly grilled chicken thighs.
2. Drizzle with Aji Verde sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the grilled chicken over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty and filling meal. The rice absorbs the flavors from the chicken and the creamy green sauce perfectly.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The natural sweetness of the veggies complements the spices in the chicken.

In Tacos

• Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in soft corn tortillas topped with Aji Verde sauce, diced onions, and fresh cilantro for a delicious taco night twist.

As a Salad Topper

• Slice the grilled chicken and add it to a fresh green salad with avocados, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Drizzle extra Aji Verde on top for added flavor.

With Crispy Potatoes

• Serve alongside crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs. The crunchiness of the potatoes pairs well with the tender chicken and creamy sauce.

For Meal Prep

• Divide the grilled chicken into portions and store them in meal prep containers with your choice of sides. This makes for easy lunches throughout the week!

How to Perfect Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

To achieve perfect Peruvian Grilled Chicken, follow these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate for 24 hours allows flavors to deeply penetrate, resulting in juicier meat.
• Use Bone-In Thighs: Opting for bone-in skin-on thighs can add more flavor and moisture compared to boneless options.
• Preheat Your Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding chicken. This helps achieve that beautiful golden crust.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming. This ensures each piece cooks evenly and remains juicy.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes helps redistribute juices, preventing dryness when cut.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your Aji Verde before serving to adjust seasoning according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

A well-rounded meal can greatly enhance your experience of enjoying Peruvian Grilled Chicken. Here are some fantastic side dishes to consider.

1. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lime dressing adds nutritional value and balances flavors.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with lime butter provides a sweet complement to the savory chicken.
3. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans offer protein and fiber while enhancing the dish’s overall taste profile.
4. Plantains: Sweet fried plantains bring a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with spicy elements in your meal.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime elevates any plate while pairing harmoniously with the chicken.
6. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for those who enjoy dipping; it’s perfect for soaking up any extra Aji Verde sauce!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Neglecting the Marinade Time: Skipping the marinating process can lead to bland chicken. Always marinate for at least 12 hours to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken thighs too long can dry them out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F.
• Ignoring the Sauce Ingredients: Using old or subpar ingredients for Aji Verde can ruin its flavor. Always use fresh herbs and ingredients for the best taste.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning before cooking can affect the overall dish. Always sample your marinade and sauce, adding salt or lime juice as needed.
• Rushing the Cooking Process: Cooking on high heat without patience can result in uneven cooking. Sear chicken on medium-high heat for an even golden brown.

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 to maintain freshness.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze cooked chicken (without 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 to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe pan until warmed through.
• Microwave: Reheat in short intervals, checking frequently until thoroughly heated.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce?

Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is a flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken thighs served with a spicy and creamy Aji Verde sauce.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, while thighs are preferred for their juiciness, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks as alternatives.

How do I customize the Aji Verde sauce?

You can adjust the spice level by adding more jalapeños or substituting them with milder peppers for less heat.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The marinade and Aji Verde sauce can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep.

What should I serve with Peruvian Grilled Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, ensuring that you always have a flavorful option ready to go. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its vibrant flavors!