The aroma of succulent Peruvian chicken with green sauce (Aji Verde) wafts through the air, making your mouth water in anticipation. Each bite promises a symphony of flavors: tender chicken bursting with spices and a zesty green sauce that dances on your palate. easy chicken dinner.
I remember the first time I tried this dish at a friend’s family gathering, where laughter mixed with delicious aromas. delicious vegetable side dish It was love at first bite, and I’ve been hooked ever since. spicy roasted Brussels sprouts.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation allows you to whip this dish up on a busy weeknight
- The bold flavor profile will impress even the pickiest eaters at your table
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it’s a feast for the eyes as well
- Versatile enough for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings, this dish shines wherever it’s served
Sharing this dish always brings smiles; my friends couldn’t get enough of it during our last cookout. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly; adjust based on your guest list.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm, fresh garlic cloves for a robust flavor that elevates the dish.
- Cumin: A key spice in Peruvian cuisine; it adds warmth and earthiness to the chicken.
- Paprika: Use smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness.
- Aji Amarillo Paste: This iconic Peruvian ingredient gives the sauce its signature kick and beautiful color.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is essential for that vibrant green sauce; it adds freshness and zing.
- Mayonnaise: Creamy mayo provides body to the Aji Verde sauce while keeping it smooth and luscious.
- Olive Oil: Use quality olive oil for marinating the chicken and enhancing its flavor during cooking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray. Now, season those chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper; they deserve some love!
Marinate your chicken by mixing olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and lime juice in a bowl. Coat each piece evenly with this flavorful mixture and let them soak up those amazing flavors for at least 30 minutes.
While your chicken is marinating, prepare the Aji Verde sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine fresh cilantro, Aji Amarillo paste, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth; taste it – if it’s not making you dance in your seat yet, add more lime! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.
Once marinated, place your chicken in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. The aroma will fill your kitchen like a warm hug.
When done baking, let them rest for about five minutes before slicing into them; trust me! This allows juices to redistribute within every tender piece. Serve alongside that vibrant Aji Verde sauce for dipping or drizzling.
Enjoy this flavorful journey through Peru while savoring each bite of your Peruvian chicken with green sauce (Aji Verde)! flavorful chicken burgers.
You Must Know
- This Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce (Aji Verde) is a flavor bomb!
- It’s easy to prepare and can be your secret weapon for impressing guests
- The vibrant green sauce not only elevates the dish but also adds a zesty kick that everyone loves
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear your chicken first for crispy skin, then bake it while blending the Aji Verde sauce. This way, everything finishes perfectly at the same time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a different zest or add avocado to the Aji Verde for creaminess. Get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect results, always use fresh herbs in your Aji Verde; they make all the difference
- Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety
- Marinade overnight if possible; it enhances flavor and tenderness beautifully
Cooking this dish reminds me of my first time hosting dinner at my apartment. My friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious this chicken turned out—it was a moment I’ll never forget!
FAQ
What is Aji Verde?
Aji Verde is a spicy green sauce made from cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice.
Can I use other meats with Aji Verde?
Absolutely! This sauce pairs well with pork, beef, or even grilled vegetables.
Is Aji Verde spicy?
The spiciness depends on how many jalapeños you use; adjust them according to your taste!
Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde is a flavorful, aromatic dish that combines succulent marinated chicken with a zesty green sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe is both easy to prepare and visually stunning. Each bite offers a delightful blend of spices and freshness, making it a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests craving more.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Juice of 2 limes (about ¼ cup)
- 2 tbsp Aji Amarillo paste
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
- While marinating, prepare the Aji Verde sauce by blending cilantro, Aji Amarillo paste, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, and salt until smooth.
- Place the marinated chicken in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Let rest for five minutes before slicing.
- Serve with Aji Verde sauce for dipping or drizzling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (170g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: For added flavor depth, sear the chicken in a skillet before baking. Substitute lime juice with lemon for a different twist or add avocado to the Aji Verde for creaminess. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven to preserve juiciness.
