Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce
This Best Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce recipe features juicy marinated chicken thighs and drumsticks served with a rich and zesty creamy green sauce, bringing bold and vibrant flavors to your dining table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Creamy Green Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 2 pieces jalapeños, seeds removed for less heat
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat thoroughly.
- Cover the bowl and marinate for at least 4 hours—or even better, overnight.
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
- Arrange the marinated chicken pieces skin-side up on the rack.
Roast the Chicken
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
- Optionally, broil for the last 3 minutes to add a little extra char and crunch.
Make the Creamy Green Sauce
- While the chicken roasts, prepare the sauce.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, parsley, jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and salt.
- Blend until smooth and vibrant green.
- Taste and adjust seasoning or heat as desired.
Serve and Savor
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve it hot with a generous drizzle—or bowl—of the creamy green sauce on the side.
Notes
Marinate longer for more flavor. Using fresh herbs makes a big difference. Adjust heat by removing jalapeño seeds, or adding more for heat. For crispy skin, bake chicken on a wire rack.