Ingredients
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