Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (2024)

Home Chicken Dinners Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Becky Hardin

4.65 from 106 votes

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Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a freshly flavored entree that’s perfect for both parties and easy weeknight dinners with the family! Tender chicken thighs are made delicious with fresh lime juice and a medley of bold herbs and spices. The spicy cilantro sauce on the side is what really sends it over the top!

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (1)

What’s in this Peruvian Chicken Recipe

Chicken thighs are marinated in a bold combination of ingredients that creates the most tender, mouthwatering results every time!

  • Garlic Coves: You should only be using fresh garlic here, not pre-minced.
  • Lime: For the very best flavor, use freshly squeezed lime juice and not the bottled alternative.
  • Paprika: You can use smoked paprika instead if you’d like a subtle smokey flavor.
  • Oregano: This is what gives the chicken a slight herbaceous flavor.
  • Salt: Try to use kosher (coarse) or flaky sea salt.
  • Cumin: The warm earthiness of this spice really does wonder for the chicken!
  • Olive Oil: Try to use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Chicken Thighs: For this Peruvian chicken recipe, I only ever use boneless skinless chicken thighs.
  • Water

PRO TIP: You can also use skin-on chicken thighs, just know they will release much more fat. Drain most of the fat before you add the water and scrape up all the brown bits from the bottom of the pan.

What’s in the green sauce?

The main stars of the show here are the serrano pepper (which keeps things on the spicier side), two full cups of cilantro, lime juice, and Greek yogurt for the creamy consistency. There are a few more additions like honey and olive oil to help balance all of those powerful ingredients!

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (2)

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (3)

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Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts?

I like to use boneless skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They have a slightly higher fat content and stay nice and juicy.
You can use chicken breasts too if that’s what you have, just be aware that they will cook through in less time, so take care not to overcook them.

Is the green sauce spicy?

There is a serrano pepper in the mix, though it’s tamed by the medley of other ingredients like Greek yogurt, honey, and cilantro. If you think the serrano may lend a bit too much heat for your tastes, swap it with a jalapeño which is much milder.

How long do I marinate Peruvian chicken?

I’ve found that the perfect marinating time for this easy chicken thigh recipe is just 1 hour! That gives the marinade enough time to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

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How to Store and Reheat

Leftovers will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. They can be served cold or warmed through in the oven at 350°F.

How to Freeze

Let the chicken cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container and popping it in the freezer. Properly stored, it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

I like to serve this Peruvian chicken with rice, or you can keep it low-carb by serving it with cauliflower rice. If you have leftovers, these can be served cold with a fresh salad.

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (5)

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Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (6)

4.65 from 106 votes

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

So easy, but loaded with fresh and vibrant flavors, this Peruvian chicken is one delicious dinner. Marinated with lime, spices, and herbs, then drizzled with a cilantro green sauce, this chicken thigh recipe is a must-try!

Prep: 10 minutes minutes

Cook: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 25 minutes minutes

Marinate: 1 hour hour

Servings: 4 people

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (7)

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large garlic cloves grated
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ cup olive oil divided
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • ¼ cup water

For the Green Sauce:

  • 1 serrano pepper seeds and stems removed
  • 2 cups cilantro
  • 1 large garlic clove
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1-2 tablespoons water

Instructions

  • Add garlic, lime juice, paprika, oregano, salt, cumin, and 2 tbsp of olive oil to a large plastic bag. Add the chicken. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken. Marinate for 1 hour.

    2 large garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, ¼ cup olive oil, 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

  • While the chicken marinates, make the green sauce. Add serrano pepper, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, honey, olive oil, Greek yogurt, and salt to a high-powered blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. If needed, add a tablespoon or two of water to thin out the sauce. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside.

    1 serrano pepper, 2 cups cilantro, 1 large garlic clove, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 teaspoon honey, 2 tablespoons olive oil, ½ cup Greek yogurt, ½ teaspoon salt, 1-2 tablespoons water

  • When the chicken has finished marinating, heat a large skillet to medium-high heat. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

    ¼ cup olive oil

  • Using tongs, pull the chicken out of the marinade. Let any excess marinade drip off. When the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. If needed, work in batches so you don't overcrowd the skillet.

  • Sear the chicken on side until browned, about 4-5 minutes. When the chicken is ready to flip, it should easily release from the pan. Flip over and continue searing on the other side until cooked through, about another 3-4 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches 165℉ on an instant-read thermometer. Remove chicken from the pan and set on a platter.

  • Reduce heat to low, and add the water to the empty skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the bits at the bottom of the pan (deglaze). Pour liquid over the chicken.

    ¼ cup water

  • Serve chicken with green sauce, and rice, beans, or potatoes if desired.

Notes

You can use skin-on chicken thighs instead, but they will release more fat. So after cooking the chicken, drain most of the fat from the pan, before adding the water to deglaze.

Storage: Store Peruvian chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days, or freeze for 3 months. Store green sauce in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for 4-6 days.

Nutrition Facts

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Amount Per Serving

Calories 485Calories from Fat 270

% Daily Value*

Fat 30g46%

Saturated Fat 5g31%

Cholesterol 217mg72%

Sodium 1090mg47%

Potassium 668mg19%

Carbohydrates 5g2%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 3g3%

Protein 47g94%

Vitamin A 1175IU24%

Vitamin C 7mg8%

Calcium 67mg7%

Iron 3mg17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Author: Becky Hardin

Course:Main Course

Cuisine:South American

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Reader Interactions

Leave a Review

  1. Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (15)Fiona says

    Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (16)
    This was so good! I had to make a few substitutions just based on what I had on hand, but even with lemon juice instead of limes, cottage cheese instead of yogurt, and jalapeños and Thai basil instead of cilantro and seranos, this was delicious!!

    Reply

    • Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (17)Becky Hardin says

      Thanks so much for sharing what substitutions worked for you, Fiona!

      Reply

  2. Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (18)Maya says

    Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (19)
    I had an issue with the chicken coming to temp in time but it was still yummy. I didn’t do the sauce though because I didn’t have all the ingredients. Paired it with fire roasted corn and rice

    Reply

    • Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (20)Becky Hardin says

      I’m glad you enjoyed this recipe, Maya! Hope you’re able to try the sauce soon!

      Reply

  3. Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (21)Peter says

    When are we supposed to use the water? The recipe never specifies.

    Reply

    • Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (22)Becky Hardin says

      Hi Peter, so sorry for the confusion! Add the water in step 3 if needed!

      Reply

  4. Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (23)Stacey says

    Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (24)
    This was really delicious. We grilled the marinated chicken. The marinade gave it such great flavor. My green sauce was a bit thin (not sure what I did) and it made a lot so I used half as dressing for coleslaw. Amazing! I will absolutely be making this again.

    Reply

    • Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (25)Becky Hardin says

      I’m so glad to hear you loved it, Stacey!

      Reply

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Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe - Easy Chicken Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What is Peruvian green sauce made of? ›

Ají Verde is made from cilantro, scallions, garlic, lime juice, ají amarillo paste, mayonnaise, and a touch of salt. The fresh mint in this version isn't at all traditional, but it is delicious — feel free to skip it if you'd prefer. Some versions also include cheese and/or huacatay "black mint" paste.

Why is Peruvian chicken so good? ›

What makes Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken so uncommonly delicious? It's the spice rub. Not only does it taste amazing, the thick wet rub also creates a sensational crust that seals in juices. The result is a bird that's incredibly juicy with a super-flavorful crispy crust.

What is Peruvian chicken made of? ›

The basics are simple: Butterflied chicken with a vinegar and spice rub gets slow-cooked on the grill, then quickly cooked directly over the coals to crisp the skin. It comes out tender and juicy, and goes perfectly with a simple spicy and creamy sauce made with jalapeños and ají amarillo peppers.

What do you drink with Peruvian chicken? ›

Vinho Verde Wine Paired with Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce. This Peruvian Grilled Chicken is packed with flavor and served with a creamy green sauce. Add some international flair to your barbecue with this chicken recipe and a bottle of Portuguese Vinho Verde to pair.

What is the difference between green sauce and tomatillo sauce? ›

Tomatillo sauce: A Sause made using tomatillos, most of the time the final result is a green looking salsa, but it can end up being other color depending on other ingredients that where used. Salsa verde = Green salsa, is just to generic.

What seasoning is in Peruvian food? ›

Ingredients
  • 2 teaspoons ground aji peppers* or cayenne or chiles de árbol for similar heat; Aleppo for fruitiness (but less heat)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin.
  • 2 teaspoons ground annatto.
  • 1 teaspoons ground oregano*
  • 2 teaspoons ground dehydrated garlic.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground.

Is Peruvian chicken unhealthy? ›

When you search for the 'best Peruvian chicken near me,' know that it's one the tastiest healthy dishes you can choose. If you're planning to eat something on a busy workday, Peruvian chicken is a great source of healthy protein.

What is the most delicious chicken in the world? ›

Today the poulet de Bresse has the reputation of being the best quality table chicken in the world.

What country is Peruvian chicken from? ›

It was developed in Peru in the 1950s by Swiss immigrants to Peru. Originally its consumption was specific to high-end restaurants (during the 1950s until the 1970s), but today it is a widely available dish.

What meat do Peruvians eat? ›

The four traditional staples of Peruvian cuisine are corn, potatoes and other tubers, Amaranthaceae (quinoa, kañiwa and kiwicha), and legumes (beans and lupins). Staples brought by the Spanish include rice, wheat and meats (beef, pork and chicken).

What is the Peruvian dish blood? ›

Sangrecita is a Peruvian cuisine dish of chicken blood. It is seasoned with garlic, onion, chili pepper, herbs and prepared with baked potatoes, fried sweet potatoes or cassava.

What unusual dish is eaten in Peru? ›

Ceviche (sometimes spelled “cebiche”) was first created in Peru and continues to be served on almost every corner in Lima. The traditional dish is usually made with whitefish, Peruvian yellow corn, ají peppers, thinly sliced onion, and lime juice.

What is a popular breakfast drink in Peru? ›

In Peru, kiwicha is traditionally used to make beverages like chicha or as a breakfast to be accompanied with bread similar to the emoliente de quinua I made before. With more influence from outside Peru, kiwicha and quinua have both found new homes in cookies, cakes, and other sweet and savory concoctions.

What is green sauce made of? ›

The Italian salsa verde is a cold rustic sauce, and includes parsley, vinegar, capers, garlic, onion, anchovies, olive oil, and possibly mustard. The ingredients are coarsely chopped, formerly by hand, now often in a food processor.

What does green sauce taste like? ›

It is believed that green sauce is not very spicy. However, as the tomatillos can be slightly sweet, the green chilies add to the heat. Some green sauce recipes will also have jalapenos and serrano which cranks up the heat. Green sauce ranges from a mild to hot spicy flavor.

What's the difference between green sauce and salsa verde? ›

The two sauces can often be used interchangeably

Salsa verde and green enchilada sauce do have distinctively different tastes and textures, with the former being tarter, tangier, and thicker while the latter has a smoother, more savory flavor to it.

Is salsa verde the same as green sauce? ›

Another key difference is the consistency. Green enchilada sauce is thinner than salsa verde and is cut with stock or water. Salsa verde, on the other hand, skips the liquid and consists only of vegetables and peppers blended together.

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