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Peruvian Grilled Chicken


  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 45 minutes active (plus marinating)
  • Yield: Serves 4–6 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 2.5 to 3 lbs bone-in, skin-on halal chicken thighs or whole chicken, cut in parts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 1/4 cup)
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced or grated
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon smoked or sweet paprika
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or aji amarillo paste (optional for heat)

For the Aji Verde (Green Sauce):

  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 small jalapeño or green chili (seeded for less heat)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • Salt to taste
  • Water to thin, if needed

Instructions

Step 1: Make the marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, vinegar, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, oregano, and coriander (if using). Add chili flakes or aji amarillo paste if you like it spicy.

Step 2: Marinate the chicken
Pat the chicken dry. Place in a large bowl or zip-top bag, then pour the marinade over the top. Rub it in well to coat all sides. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.

Step 3: Make the green sauce (aji verde)
In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, mayo, olive oil, garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, vinegar, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Thin with a splash of water if needed. Store in the fridge until serving.

Step 4: Grill or cook the chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (or oven to 425°F if roasting). Grill chicken skin-side down first for 5–7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and skin is crispy and caramelized. You can also roast on a foil-lined tray or use a cast-iron skillet.

Step 5: Rest and serve
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. Serve with a drizzle of green sauce, extra lime wedges, and your favorite sides.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Marinating Time: 2 to 24 hours
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Fat: 17g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 38g