As I stood in my kitchen, tantalizing aromas enveloped me, whisking me away to the heart of Peru. This Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is a vibrant escape from the mundane, combining juicy roasted chicken with a zesty, herbaceous sauce that sings with fresh lime and cilantro. Not only is this an easy chicken recipe that guarantees sumptuous flavor, but it’s also a fantastic crowd-pleaser, perfect for turning any weeknight dinner into a festive occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that feels rich in tradition, yet quick enough to enjoy on a busy night. Are you ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this chicken recipe unforgettable?

Simplicity is key: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create an impressive meal. Flavor explosion awaits: The marinade blends robust spices, vibrant lime, and the refreshing kick of cilantro, delivering a taste that’s anything but ordinary. Versatile serving options allow you to pair it with everything from potato wedges to fried plantains, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Perfect for gatherings: This dish turns dinner into a celebration, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Plus, you can easily enjoy it as leftovers—the creamy green sauce only gets better with time! If you’re looking for more flavorful options, don’t miss our Korean BBQ Sauce or Cheesy Garlic Chicken.

Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce Ingredients

For the Chicken

Whole Chicken – The centerpiece of this dish, roasted to crispy perfection.
Olive Oil – Helps to coat the spices evenly while keeping the chicken moist.
Ground Cumin – Infuses warm, earthy notes into the chicken marinade.
Paprika – Adds a rich color and subtle sweetness to the roasted chicken.
Garlic Powder – Elevates the savory depth and flavor of the chicken.
Salt – Essential for enhancing all the ingredients’ flavors.
Black Pepper – Provides a mild heat that balances the dish.
Lime Juice – Brightens the chicken’s flavors while tenderizing the meat.

For the Creamy Green Sauce

Mayonnaise – The creamy base; swap for Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
Sour Cream – Contributes tanginess and richer texture to the sauce; yogurt can replace it.
Jalapeño – Adds spice; adjust the heat level by removing the seeds or using less.
Fresh Cilantro Leaves – Introduces a fresh herbaceous flavor that complements the chicken.
Lime Juice (for sauce) – Enhances flavor and freshness of the creamy green sauce.
Garlic – Introduces an additional layer of flavor depth.
Salt and Black Pepper – Season the sauce to taste for a perfect balance.

This Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is not just any dish; it promises a delightful dining experience that’s both comforting and exciting!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring it reaches the ideal temperature for roasting. This step is crucial as it helps achieve that perfect crispy skin on your Peruvian Chicken. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients to streamline the cooking process, which adds efficiency to your kitchen adventure.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, combine olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and fresh lime juice. Whisk the mixture until it’s well-blended. This flavorful marinade imparts a savory depth to your chicken. Once mixed, set the bowl aside while you prepare the chicken, allowing the spices to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Season the Chicken
Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels—this helps the skin crisp up nicely during roasting. Next, rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get into all the crevices for maximum flavor. The spices should coat the chicken evenly, creating a fragrant aroma as you prepare it for the oven.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on the chicken; it should turn a beautiful golden-brown hue as it cooks. The kitchen will be filled with a mouthwatering scent as it roasts.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Green Sauce
While the chicken roasts, prepare the creamy green sauce. In a blender, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, jalapeño, fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed. This zesty sauce perfectly complements the Peruvian Chicken, enhancing its flavors with a fresh and spicy kick.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy chicken. While it rests, you can give the creamy green sauce a final stir, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
After resting, carve the chicken into pieces and serve it hot alongside the creamy green sauce. This Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce can be paired with your favorite sides like rice or fried plantains for a complete meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors as you dig into this delightful dish!

Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce Ideas

Feel free to embrace your creativity in the kitchen as you customize this delightful dish!

Chicken Parts: Swap a whole chicken for thighs or drumsticks; adjust cooking times to keep the meat tender and juicy. This twist can make serving simpler, especially when entertaining!
Greek Yogurt: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the creamy green sauce without sacrificing creaminess. It’s a great way to sneak in some protein!
Avocado: For a vegan-friendly option, substitute sour cream with ripe avocado, creating a rich and creamy twist that’s packed with flavor and healthy fats.
Extra Spicy: Elevate the heat by blending in more jalapeños or adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Feel the warmth! Each fiery bite will surely wake up your taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the marinade and sauce with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an aromatic twist that brightens every mouthful. Mix and match your favorite greens!
Soy Sauce: Incorporate a splash of soy sauce into the marinade for an umami boost that adds depth to the chicken’s flavor. It’s a sweet yet savory delight that takes it to the next level.
Coconut Cream: For a tropical flair, use coconut cream instead of sour cream in the sauce. This addition gives an exotic sweetness, making each bite feel like a mini-vacation.
Peach Salsa: Serve the chicken with a freshly made peach salsa for a sweet contrast that complements the savory chicken and creaminess of the sauce. It’s a perfect summer combination that bursts with freshness!

As you explore and blend flavors, don’t forget to try pairing this chicken with some of our other crowd favorites, like French Onion Chicken or Street Corn Chicken. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

What to Serve with Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

Transform your meal into a feast with delightful accompaniments that enhance the flavors of this vibrant chicken dish.

Crispy Potato Wedges: The golden, crispy exterior and fluffy interior of roasted potatoes provide a satisfying contrast to the juicy chicken. Their neutrality allows the spicy green sauce to shine through, creating a perfect balance on your plate.
Lime Cilantro Rice: Aromatic rice seasoned with lime and fresh cilantro offers a zesty touch that complements the Peruvian Chicken beautifully. The bright flavors elevate the dish, making every bite feel like a sunny escape to Peru.
Fried Plantains: Sweet and slightly caramelized plantains add a delightful texture while balancing the savory and spicy notes of the chicken. Their natural sweetness elevates the dish, bringing a tropical flair that’s hard to resist.
Crisp Garden Salad: A flavorful garden salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette introduces fresh crunch and acidity that counteracts the richness of the chicken. This light side will leave you feeling refreshed!
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini caramelize beautifully, delivering a medley of sweet and savory flavors. Their robust taste pairs well with the creamy green sauce, creating a colorful and nutritious meal.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the zesty green sauce perfectly, enhancing the flavors of your dish and making for a delightful dining experience.

Serve these sides with your Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce for a well-rounded, memorable meal that satisfies all the senses!

How to Store and Freeze Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

Fridge: Store leftover Peruvian chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing to maintain its tenderness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze pieces of the chicken in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.

Sauce Storage: Keep the creamy green sauce in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Its flavors will continue to develop and improve over time!

Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Creamy sauce can be gently warmed on the stove for added flavor enhancement.

Expert Tips for Peruvian Chicken

Dry the Chicken First: Patting the chicken dry helps achieve that golden, crispy skin. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness when roasting.
Spice It Up: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spice levels in the marinade and creamy green sauce according to your taste. More heat means more flavor!
Let It Rest: After roasting, rest the chicken for about 10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
Blend Well: For the creamy green sauce, blend until completely smooth. This ensures a rich texture that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Watch the Time: Cooking times can vary; check the internal temperature and aim for 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

Make Ahead Options

These Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the whole chicken in your spice mixture up to 24 hours in advance to enhance the flavors, ensuring it’s packed with deliciousness. Alternatively, the creamy green sauce can be prepared 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, simply roast the chicken as directed and serve with the chilled sauce for a quick, vibrant meal that feels fresh and flavorful. Remember to let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes after cooking to retain its juiciness!

Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, select a whole chicken that weighs between 3 to 4 pounds. Look for one with smooth skin and no dark spots all over; that indicates freshness. Organic or free-range chickens usually offer a richer taste, so if you can, go for these options.

What’s the best way to store leftover Peruvian chicken?
Very simple! Store leftover Peruvian chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 4 days. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then seal it to keep it tender. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can also store separate pieces in a zip-top bag for easy grabbing!

Can I freeze the creamy green sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy green sauce! Just put it in an airtight container, and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Give it a good stir to regain its creaminess before serving!

What if my chicken skin isn’t crispy after roasting?
No worries! If your chicken skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like, here are some troubleshooting tips. Ensure you pat the chicken dry thoroughly before applying the spice rub. If it’s still not crisping up, try placing the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time, but watch closely to prevent burning!

Is there a way to adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute the mayonnaise in the creamy green sauce with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a lighter version. For those with allergies, make sure to double-check ingredient labels, especially for the jalapeño and any added spices. You can also omit or replace the cilantro if you’re sensitive to it.

How should I reheat the chicken?
To reheat the Peruvian chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the chicken’s juiciness while ensuring it’s safely reheated. Enjoy!