Peruvian Grilled Chicken

Peruvian Grilled Chicken, or Pollo a la Brasa, is a staple of Peruvian cuisine known for its smoky, juicy texture and deeply flavorful marinade. Marinated in a rich blend of spices, citrus, and herbs, then grilled to perfection, this chicken is usually served with a vibrant green sauce called Aji Verde. It’s a simple yet bold dish that brings the taste of Peru right to your home kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, smoky flavor thanks to a spice-packed marinade
• Incredibly juicy chicken with crispy, charred skin
• Served with a creamy and spicy Aji Verde sauce
• Perfect for grilling season, cookouts, or family dinners
• Easy to make ahead with an overnight marinade

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken and marinade:

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
• Garlic cloves
• Soy sauce
• Olive oil
• Lime juice
• Apple cider vinegar
• Ground cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper

For the Aji Verde (green sauce):

• Jalapeño peppers (or serranos for more heat)
• Fresh cilantro
• Garlic cloves
• Green onions
• Mayonnaise
• Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Lime juice
• Olive oil
• Salt

directions

this recipe

1. Make the marinade: Blend garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, vinegar, olive oil, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper into a smooth paste.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place chicken in a large bag or bowl and pour the marinade over. Toss to coat well. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Prepare the green sauce: In a blender, combine jalapeños, cilantro, garlic, green onions, mayonnaise, yogurt, lime juice, and salt. Blend until smooth. Drizzle in olive oil while blending until creamy. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and skin is crispy.
5. Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Serve with Aji Verde on the side.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Marinating time: 8–24 hours
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: Up to 25 hours with marinating

Variations

• No grill? Roast chicken at 425°F for 35–45 minutes
• More heat: Use serrano or aji amarillo peppers in the green sauce
• Different cuts: Try a whole spatchcocked chicken or boneless thighs
• Low-fat option: Use plain Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise
• Herb twist: Add fresh parsley or mint to the marinade

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in a skillet over medium heat
• Freezing: Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking

FAQs

What makes Peruvian grilled chicken different?

The unique marinade combining citrus, soy sauce, garlic, and Peruvian spices sets it apart from other grilled chicken recipes.

Do I need a charcoal grill?

A charcoal grill adds authentic smoky flavor, but a gas grill or grill pan works well too.

How spicy is Aji Verde?

It has a medium spice level. You can reduce or increase the heat by adjusting the number of jalapeños.

Can I use chicken breasts?

Yes, but thighs retain moisture better and are more traditional.

Is marinating overnight necessary?

It’s ideal for maximum flavor, but 4–6 hours will still yield good results.

What sides go well with this dish?

Try rice, fries, roasted potatoes, salad, or grilled vegetables.

Can I make Aji Verde dairy-free?

Use vegan mayo and omit the yogurt, or use a plant-based yogurt alternative.

How long does Aji Verde last in the fridge?

Store in a sealed jar for up to 5 days.

Can I roast the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 425°F for about 35–45 minutes or until cooked through.

What’s the best way to get crispy skin?

Grill over medium-high heat and don’t move the chicken too much. Let it char lightly for best texture.

Conclusion

Peruvian Grilled Chicken is a bold, flavorful recipe that brings together juicy marinated meat and a zesty, creamy green sauce. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or looking for an exciting weeknight meal, this dish offers a satisfying blend of spice, citrus, and charred perfection that’s guaranteed to impress.

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