Peruvian Chicken, or Pollo a la Brasa, is a mouthwatering dish known for its bold and vibrant flavors. Marinated in a blend of garlic, cumin, paprika, lime juice, and Peruvian spices, the chicken is roasted to perfection, resulting in juicy meat with a crispy, golden skin. Traditionally served with creamy aji verde (a spicy green sauce) and sides like rice, fries, or salad, this recipe brings the authentic taste of Peru right to your table. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a crowd-pleasing feast!
What Is Peruvian Chicken?
Peruvian chicken, or Pollo a la Brasa, is a traditional roasted chicken recipe originating from Peru. What sets it apart is the marinade—a blend of garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, lime juice, and soy sauce, with some recipes including beer or vinegar for added depth. The chicken is then roasted or grilled until the skin is golden and crispy, and the inside is tender and juicy. It’s typically served with sides like French fries, salad, or rice, and always paired with a bold sauce like Aji Verde, a spicy green sauce made from cilantro, jalapeños, and mayonnaise.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Peruvian Chicken
Marinate Long Enough
The key to authentic flavor lies in the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 6 hours, but overnight is ideal. This ensures the spices penetrate deeply.
Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken
The bones help retain moisture, and the skin crisps up beautifully during roasting or grilling.
Cook Low and Slow
To achieve the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat, roast the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about an hour, then increase the temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the final 10-15 minutes.
Don’t Skip the Aji Verde
This sauce is the soul of Peruvian chicken. If you’re sensitive to heat, adjust the amount of jalapeños, but don’t omit it entirely—it ties the dish together.
Variations of Peruvian Chicken
- Grilled Peruvian Chicken: If you prefer a smoky flavor, grill the chicken over charcoal. The charred exterior adds a unique depth.
- Peruvian Chicken Wings: Use the same marinade on chicken wings for a party-friendly appetizer.
- Peruvian Chicken Salad: Shred leftover chicken and toss it with greens, avocado, and a drizzle of Aji Verde for a refreshing salad.
- Vegan Peruvian Chicken: Swap chicken for cauliflower or tofu, marinating and roasting them to absorb the flavors.
How to Serve Peruvian Chicken
- Traditional Side Dishes: Pair it with French fries, white rice, or roasted potatoes for an authentic experience.
- Salads: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
- Vegetables: Roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts work well.
- Tortillas or Wraps: Slice the chicken thin and serve in wraps or tacos for a modern twist.
How to Store Peruvian Chicken
Refrigeration
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy skin.
Freezing
- Freeze the marinated raw chicken or the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.
Recipe FAQs
What makes Peruvian chicken different from other roasted chicken recipes?
The marinade’s unique combination of spices, soy sauce, and lime juice, along with the addition of Aji Verde, sets Peruvian chicken apart.
Is Peruvian chicken spicy?
The marinade is mildly spiced, but the heat level can increase depending on the amount of jalapeños in the Aji Verde sauce.
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry the chicken at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a quicker, crispy version.
What can I use as a substitute for Aji Verde sauce?
If you can’t make Aji Verde, a simple garlic aioli or chimichurri sauce can work as a substitute.
Can I use pre-cut chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time based on the size of the pieces. Breasts may take 25-30 minutes, while thighs and drumsticks could take 35-40 minutes.
Peruvian Chicken
Peruvian Chicken, or Pollo a la Brasa, is a mouthwatering dish known for its bold and vibrant flavors. Marinated in a blend of garlic, cumin, paprika, lime juice, and Peruvian spices, the chicken is roasted to perfection, resulting in juicy meat with a crispy, golden skin.
Ingredients
Ingredients for the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 5 garlic cloves (peeled)
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- 2 tsp cumin
- Black pepper
Ingredients for the Green Sauce:
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 green onions (green parts only)
- 2 garlic cloves (peeled)
- 3 jalapeños (seeded and chopped)
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- Blend garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, oregano, and a dash of black pepper until smooth.
- Add chicken to a zip-top bag and pour in the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for 8-24 hours for maximum flavor.
Prepare the Green Sauce:
- Blend all ingredients except olive oil until smooth.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until emulsified. Chill until serving.
- Cook the Chicken – Choose Your Method:
Grill:
- Preheat grill to medium-high (350°F).
- Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess.
- Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, closing the lid to retain heat. Ensure internal temperature hits 165°F.
Oven:
- Preheat oven to 500°F.
- Place chicken in a roasting pan with 1 cup water. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Tent with foil and cook another 15 minutes, ensuring chicken reaches 165°F internally.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 806Total Fat 63gSaturated Fat 14gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 48gCholesterol 303mgSodium 2028mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 58g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Conclusion
Peruvian chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of Peru’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, its bold flavors and versatility are sure to impress. Follow this guide to master the recipe, experiment with variations, and savor every bite of this irresistible dish.
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