If you’re looking for a chicken recipe with strong spices, succulent meat, and a green sauce so flavorful you’ll want to eat it by the spoonful, this Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde Sauce is the perfect choice. It’s the kind of dish that wins hearts at first bite, making it a favorite for dinners, prep, and weeknight meals.
Let’s explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips that go into this delicious dish—straight from your oven, grill, or even air fryer!
What is Peruvian Chicken?
Also known as Pollo a la Brasa, this Peruvian chicken is traditionally marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, and a variety of bold spices, such as cumin, oregano, and paprika. The magic happens during a long marinade—allowing the chicken to absorb all that incredible flavor before being baked, grilled, or air-fried.
But the real star? The Aji Verde sauce—a spicy, creamy, and herby green sauce made with jalapeños, cilantro, lime, and Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.
Necessary ingredients
For the chicken marinade:
- 4 chicken thighs or quarters with bone and skin
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon of oregano
- 4 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Aji Verde Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh coriander leaves
- 2 jalapeños, seeded for a milder flavor
- 2 chopped spring onions
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon aji amarillo paste (for an authentic Peruvian flavor)
Time needed
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: 8 hours (or overnight for best flavor)
- Cooking time: 50 to 60 minutes (oven or air fryer)
- Total time: about 9 hours, most of the time without manual intervention
Instructions – Step by Step
Prepare the Marinade
In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, soy sauce, and all the seasonings until a paste forms.
Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the chicken is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours—this long soaking is where the magic happens.
Bake or Grill
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 220°C. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, place the chicken skin-side up, and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Air Fryer: Cook the chicken at 190°C for about 25 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken for about 30 to 35 minutes, turning occasionally.
Prepare the Aji Verde Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, blend all the sauce ingredients until smooth: jalapeños, cilantro, garlic, chives, lime juice, Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, and aji amarillo paste (if using). Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve and enjoy!
- Serve the Peruvian chicken hot, fresh from the grill or oven, with generous spoonfuls of Aji Verde sauce.
- Serve with rice, baked potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a perfect meal.
Professional tips for better results
- Marinate overnight: The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavor will be. 8 hours minimum—preferably overnight.
- Hotness Level: For a milder sauce, deseed the jalapeños. Want it hotter? Add more or try a little chipotle or adobo sauce.
- Serving suggestions: Serve with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, pita bread, or French fries.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat.
A Taste of Peru at Home
What makes this recipe so exciting is its global influence and local authenticity. Inspired by the flavors of Peru and refined in cuisines around the world, this recipe is more than just a chicken dish—it’s a flavor adventure. From the bold marinade to the tangy green sauce, each bite tells a story of spice, heat, and heart.
Do you love fast food recipes that don’t compromise on flavor?
Whether you’re roasting for the family, grilling for a summer barbecue, or trying out tricks in the air fryer, this Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde Sauce will quickly become one of your favorites. Save it, share it, and make it again and again.
For more mouth-watering recipes that bring global flavors to your kitchen, visit us anytime at Pro Fast Food Recipes —your home for delicious, bold, and quick recipes loved by true foodies!
