Too hot to turn on the oven? This one’s for you. This Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce brings bright, bold flavors to your table. It is the perfect way to refresh your dinner routine this summer.
Looking for a dish that wows your guests without any stress? This recipe delivers juicy meat and a sauce you will want on everything. It is simple, fresh, and exactly what your family needs tonight.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This chicken is a total crowd-pleaser for your next family dinner. It delivers restaurant-quality flavor with very little effort. You get a tender, golden roast that feels special every time.
The high protein content keeps everyone feeling full and satisfied. It is perfect for a fresh summer meal on the patio. Your kids will love the mild, savory spices in every bite.
The green sauce is the real star of the show. It is creamy, zesty, and adds a beautiful pop of color. You will find yourself making extra just for dipping vegetables later.
This dish is also great for a healthy reset. It uses fresh herbs and lean protein for a balanced meal. It is a guilt-free way to enjoy a comforting dinner.
Simple Method
This recipe is surprisingly simple for any home cook. You just whisk, marinate, and let the oven do the work. It is a hands-off approach to a gourmet meal.
The blender handles the famous green sauce in seconds. Even if you are a beginner, you can master this. You will feel like a pro in your own kitchen.
The long marinade time does all the heavy lifting for you. It ensures every piece of chicken is infused with garlic and cumin. You just need a little bit of planning.
Simple Ingredients
You likely have most of these pantry staples in your kitchen right now. Fresh cilantro and lime make everything taste like a garden-fresh dream.
- 1 whole chicken approx 4 lbs
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 jalapeños seeded and chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice for sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step
- Whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, and black pepper.
- Place chicken in a roasting pan or resealable bag and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius).
- Roast the chicken for 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
- Prepare sauce by blending mayonnaise, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, and salt until smooth.
- Rest chicken for 10 minutes before carving and serve with the green sauce.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this golden chicken while it is still warm and juicy. It pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy white rice. You can also add some simple roasted vegetables.
Drizzle that creamy green sauce over everything for a fresh finish. For a lighter meal, serve the sliced chicken over a large salad. It makes for a wonderful summer lunch.
Set the table, pour a cold drink, and enjoy this with your family. It is the perfect meal for a slow Sunday afternoon. Everyone will be asking for seconds of the sauce.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. This makes meal prep for the week so easy.
The green sauce keeps well in a small glass jar. Give it a quick stir before using it again. It stays vibrant and delicious for several days.
Reheat the chicken in the oven to keep the skin crisp. A quick 10 minutes at 350°F works perfectly. You can also enjoy the chicken cold in a wrap.
Recipe Tips
- Marinate the chicken overnight for the deepest flavor possible.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken stays juicy.
- Pat the skin dry before roasting for the best golden crunch.
- Wear gloves when chopping jalapeños to protect your hands.
- Make extra green sauce to use as a salad dressing later.
- Use fresh lime juice for the brightest and best citrus notes.
- Let the chicken rest so the juices stay inside the meat.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Use chicken drumsticks for a budget-friendly family option.
- Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier sauce.
- Add a pinch of cayenne if you want a spicier kick.
- Try this marinade on turkey for a fun holiday twist.
Common Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Yes, you can certainly use chicken breasts. Just reduce the roasting time to about 25-30 minutes. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Is the green sauce very spicy?
The sauce has a gentle kick from the jalapeños. If you prefer it mild, remove all the seeds first. It will still be creamy and delicious.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can make it a day early. The flavors actually meld together and improve over time. Just keep it chilled in the fridge.
I hope this juicy chicken brings a little sunshine to your kitchen today. It is a wonderful way to gather everyone around the table for a fresh meal. Enjoy every bite of that creamy green sauce!
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken approx 4 lbs
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnais e
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 jalape ños seeded and chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice for sauce
- 1 teaspoon sal t
Instructions
- Whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, and black pepper.
- Place chicken in a roasting pan or resealable bag and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius).
- Roast the chicken for 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
- Prepare sauce by blending mayonnaise, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, and salt until smooth.
- Rest chicken for 10 minutes before carving and serve with the green sauce.
