Name: Best Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons oregano; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (packed); 1/4 cup fresh parsley; 2 jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat); 2 garlic cloves; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Jump to Recipe

When it comes to bringing vibrant flavors to your table, few dishes can match the appeal of Peruvian chicken. This roasted beauty, with its perfectly crispy skin and succulent meat, is enhanced by a creamy green sauce that’s nothing short of addictive. Inspired by traditional Peruvian recipes, I have found this dish to be perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a significant celebration. Each bite carries a burst of flavor thanks to the marinade, while the green sauce adds a refreshing zing that elevates the entire meal.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should you whip up this Best Peruvian Chicken recipe? For starters, it’s a dish that brings authentic Peruvian flavors right to your kitchen without needing culinary expertise. The combination of spices in the marinade creates an incredible depth of flavor that will impress both family and friends. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or leisurely weekends.

“This recipe has become a staple in our home! The chicken is so tender and flavorful, and the green sauce is brilliant—it pairs perfectly!”

Step-by-step Instructions

Making the Best Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is straightforward and rewarding. In just a few steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to enjoy.

Start by marinating the chicken, which infuses it with flavor. Letting it sit overnight will significantly enhance the taste.
While the chicken is marinating, you’ll prepare a simple yet delicious green sauce that complements the dish perfectly.
Roast the chicken until it’s crispy and golden brown, and serve it hot with that vibrant sauce.

This recipe is truly about layering flavors and letting them shine through—a feast for the senses!

What you’ll need

To create this amazing dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

New Ebook

🍰 30 Easy No-Bake Desserts

A delicious collection of no-bake treats you can make anytime, including:

✨ Chocolate lovers’ dreams – fudgy bars, truffles & mousse
🍓 Fruity delights – creamy parfaits, lemon & mango desserts
🥜 Nutty & indulgent – peanut butter & pistachio bites
🍋 Citrus & refreshing – lemon, orange creamsicle & key lime
🍪 Classic favorites – icebox cakes & cookie dough cups

👉 Get the Ebook

Instant digital download • Secure checkout via Gumroad

For the Chicken Marinade:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
4 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons oregano
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Creamy Green Sauce:

1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup fresh cilantro (packed)
1/4 cup fresh parsley
2 jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
2 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt

Feel free to make substitutions if needed, like using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist!

Cooking Steps

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss in the chicken pieces until well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Lay the marinated chicken on the rack, skin-side up.
Roast the Chicken: Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy. Broil for an additional 3 minutes if you desire more char.
Make the Creamy Green Sauce: While the chicken is roasting, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, parsley, jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and salt in a blender. Blend until smooth. Adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with a generous portion of the creamy green sauce.

Best Way to Serve

Pairing is everything! The Best Peruvian Chicken shines when served with roasted potatoes, fluffy rice, or a fresh salad. You can add some grilled vegetables or even a warm quinoa salad for a nutritious and colorful plate. Drizzling extra sauce on your sides, or using it as a dip, will undoubtedly elevate the meal even further.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be a delightful continuation of your culinary adventure! Store any uneaten chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain its crispy skin or microwave if you’re in a hurry—just be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the chicken for up to 3 months; just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Expert Advice

Marination Time Matters: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it becomes, so plan ahead!
Herbal Enhancements: Fresh herbs like basil or mint can be substituted in the creamy sauce for different flavor layers.
Adjusting Heat Levels: If you’re sensitive to spice, be sure to remove the seeds from the jalapeños or eliminate them altogether.

Creative twists

Looking to customize this delicious recipe? You can add a dash of lime zest to the sauce for an extra zesty kick or substitute chicken with your favorite protein like pork tenderloin or shrimp. Incorporating other herbs like dill can also provide an interesting twist!

Your questions answered

What’s the prep time and cook time?

Prep time is about 15 minutes for marinating, plus 40-45 minutes for roasting.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time, as boneless pieces may cook faster.

How can I adjust for dietary restrictions?

You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version, making it suitable for different dietary needs.

Is this dish spicy?

The jalapeños add a mild heat, but you can easily adjust or omit them based on your heat preference.

Can I make the green sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the green sauce a day in advance, just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

With this comprehensive guide, you’ll undoubtedly impress your family and friends with a delicious meal that showcases the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine. Enjoy every flavorful bite!