Name: Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 765 min
Ingredients: 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; 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

Introduction to Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

If you’re on the lookout for a dish that bursting with flavor and has a bit of a spicy kick, Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is your answer! This dish marries tender grilled chicken thighs with a vibrant green sauce that boasts fresh herbs and a hint of heat—perfect for impressing dinner guests or spicing up your weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

One of the highlights of Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is its unique flavor profile. The marinade, enriched with garlic, soy sauce, and lime juice, transforms ordinary chicken into a juicy, aromatic masterpiece. Paired with the zesty green sauce made from jalapeños and cilantro, each bite is an exciting explosion of tastes.

Moreover, the dish is versatile. You can grill the chicken for that perfect char or roast it in the oven on busy nights. This recipe is also simple to prepare ahead of time—marinate the chicken overnight and whip up the sauce earlier in the day. Perfect for busy young professionals looking to streamline their meal prep!

Feel free to explore additional side dishes like rice or roasted vegetables to complete your meal. Are you ready to bring a taste of Peru into your kitchen? Let's dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Creating an authentic Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is straightforward and highly rewarding. Below, you'll find a breakdown of the essential ingredients to get you started on this flavorful journey.

Chicken Ingredients

For a delicious chicken base, gather the following:

2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs
5 cloves of garlic (peeled)
⅓ cup of soy sauce
2 tablespoons of lime juice
1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons of cumin
1 teaspoon of paprika
½ teaspoon of dried oregano
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Green Sauce Ingredients

The vibrant green sauce is where the real magic happens! You'll need:

3 jalapeños (seeded and roughly chopped)
1 cup of fresh cilantro leaves
2 green onions (chopped, green parts only)
2 cloves of garlic (peeled)
½ cup of mayonnaise
¼ cup of Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon of lime juice
½ teaspoon of salt
¼ teaspoon of black pepper
2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Incorporating these ingredients will give you rich, bold flavors that perfectly celebrate the essence of Peruvian cuisine. So, are you ready to create some delicious Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce?

Preparing Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Creating Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce at home is not only rewarding but also incredibly delicious. The combination of marinated chicken with a zesty green sauce is sure to impress everyone at your dinner table. Let’s dive into the steps so you can enjoy this mouthwatering dish!

Make the Marinade

To start, you’ll want to whip up a fragrant marinade that embodies the essence of Peruvian flavors. In a blender, combine:

5 cloves of garlic (peeled)
⅓ cup of soy sauce
2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons of cumin
1 teaspoon of paprika
½ teaspoon of dried oregano
A pinch of black pepper

Blend until smooth. This mixture is packed with flavor and will enhance the chicken wonderfully.

Marinate the Chicken

Once your marinade is ready, it’s time to immerse the chicken in those delicious flavors. Take 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs and place them in a large zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and give it a good shake to ensure all pieces are coated. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, but if you can, let it marinate overnight for an even deeper flavor.

Prepare the Green Sauce

Now, let’s elevate your Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce with a fresh, vibrant sauce. In a blender, combine:

3 seeded and chopped jalapeños
1 cup of fresh cilantro leaves
2 chopped green onions (using only the green parts)
2 cloves of garlic (peeled)
½ cup of mayonnaise
¼ cup of Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon of lime juice
½ teaspoon of salt
¼ teaspoon of black pepper

Blend until smooth. As you blend, slowly drizzle in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil for that creamy consistency. Once done, transfer the sauce to a bowl and refrigerate until serving.

Grill or Bake the Chicken

When you’re ready to cook, there are two options for cooking your marinated chicken.

Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 350°F). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side. This method will give your chicken that perfect char and smoky flavor.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 500°F. Place the marinated chicken in a 13x9 inch roasting pan and add 1 cup of water. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, then cover with foil and cook for an additional 15 minutes.

Check for Doneness

Regardless of the cooking method, checking for doneness is crucial! The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F for it to be safe to eat. A digital meat thermometer is a great tool for this. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes and then slice it up to serve with that luscious green sauce.

With these steps, you'll have a delightful and flavorful Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce that will surely impress your friends and family!

Variations on Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Spicy Variations with Extra Jalapeños

For those who crave a kick in their Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce, adding extra jalapeños is a game changer! Simply double or triple the amount of jalapeños in the green sauce recipe to amplify the heat. Want to take it up a notch? Throw in a few serrano peppers for an extra layer of flavor. This combination won't just make your taste buds tingle; it's sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Vegetarian Alternatives with Tofu or Tempeh

Not a meat-eater? No problem! Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce can easily adapt to fit a vegetarian lifestyle. Substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh to soak up those delicious flavors. Just make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating. Grill or bake them for that unbeatable texture, and enjoy a hearty, plant-based version of this classic dish that's equally satisfying!

By exploring these delicious variations, you can enjoy the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine, tailored just for you.

Cooking tips and notes for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Using a meat thermometer for perfect doneness

For ensuring your Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is perfectly cooked, a meat thermometer is your best friend. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken thighs; you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees juicy, tender chicken, eliminating any guesswork.

Tips for enhancing flavor in the green sauce

Want to elevate your green sauce? Here are some tips:

Adjust the heat: If you love a bit of spice, leave some jalapeño seeds in. For a milder sauce, make sure to remove all seeds.
Fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro is key, but adding a touch of parsley can create a nice balance.
Acidity: If the sauce feels too rich, squeeze in a little extra lime juice.

By following these tips, your Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce will shine on the dinner table!

Serving Suggestions for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Pairing with Sides Like Rice or Salad

An excellent way to complement your Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is by serving it with a side of fluffy rice or a refreshing salad. The vibrant green sauce adds a lovely kick to simple white rice, while a fresh, zesty salad can balance the dish's richness. Consider including ingredients like avocado, corn, and bell peppers for an even more colorful platter.

Creative Serving Ideas for Gatherings

If you're hosting friends or family, why not create a festive taco bar? Serve the chicken shredded, allowing guests to customize their own tacos with the green sauce, fresh toppings, and sides like black beans or grilled vegetables. You could even offer a side of crispy fried plantains for a delightful twist!

For more ideas on making your gatherings memorable, check out Food Network's Hosting Tips.

Time breakdown for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Preparation time
Getting everything ready will take you about 15 minutes. You'll be marinating those flavorful chicken thighs, which sets the stage for your delicious dish.

Cooking time
Whether you choose to grill or bake, you’re looking at approximately 30 to 40 minutes. This includes getting your chicken perfectly cooked and juicy.

Total time
In total, set aside around 8 to 24 hours (for marinating) plus 45 minutes for cooking. Although it sounds lengthy, the wait is well worth it for this incredible Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce!

If you're curious about other marinating options or grilling techniques, check out this guide on marinating meats and grilling tips for some added inspiration.

Nutritional Facts for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Calories

The delicious Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce packs around 731 calories per serving, making it a satisfying meal choice that fuels your busy lifestyle.

Protein

With approximately 39 grams of protein, this dish is a powerhouse for muscle recovery and energy. It’s an excellent option to add to your post-workout meal rotation.

Sodium

It's important to be mindful of sodium intake, and this recipe contains about 1,691 mg per serving. For those watching their salt levels, consider reducing the soy sauce or opting for a low-sodium version to maintain flavor without sacrificing health.

As you enjoy this vibrant dish, remember it's all about balance. Pair it with a fresh salad or some whole grains to round out your meal! For more on healthy eating, check out resources like Nutrition.gov to guide your choices.

FAQ about Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

What can I substitute for chicken thighs?

If chicken thighs aren't your thing, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or drumsticks are excellent alternatives! Chicken breasts will yield a leaner dish, while drumsticks will bring a bit more moisture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts typically cook faster than thighs.

How do I store leftover chicken?

Storing leftover Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is simple! Let the chicken cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it—just be sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.

Can the green sauce be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! The vibrant green sauce can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Its flavors will actually deepen and improve overnight, making it an even better complement to your Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce!

Conclusion on Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

In summary, Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors and health-conscious ingredients to your table. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Enjoy the taste of Peru right at home!