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Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

This Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce packs in big flavors thanks to an easy marinade and a vibrant, creamy green sauce (aji verde). It's perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Latin American, Peruvian
Calories: 731

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds chicken thighs boneless, skinless
  • 5 cloves garlic peeled
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce
  • 2 Tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Green Sauce (Aji Verde)
  • 3 jalapeños seeded, ribs removed and roughly chopped
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 2 green onions chopped (green parts only)
  • 2 cloves garlic peeled
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 Tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. For the chicken marinade: Puree 5 cloves of garlic, soy sauce, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, cumin, paprika, oregano, and a pinch of black pepper in a blender until smooth.
  2. Place the chicken thighs in a large ziploc bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and massage to coat. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours.
  3. For the green sauce: Combine jalapeños, cilantro, green onions, 2 cloves of garlic, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon lime juice, salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a blender or food processor. Process until smooth.
  4. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the 2 tablespoons of olive oil until fully combined. Transfer the sauce to a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  5. To grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 350°F). Remove chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess. Place chicken on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for 5-6 minutes. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Alternatively, to roast the chicken: Preheat your oven to 500°F. Place chicken pieces in a 13x9 inch roasting pan and add 1 cup of water. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Tent the pan with foil and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Serve the cooked Peruvian chicken with the creamy green sauce on the side.

Notes

Marinating time is crucial for flavor. The green sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Adjust jalapeño quantity for desired spice level.