ROASTED PERUVIAN-STYLE CHICKEN with CREAMY GREEN SAUCE is a bold, flavor-packed main course known for its juicy meat, deeply spiced skin, and vibrant, herby sauce. Inspired by the famous Peruvian pollo a la brasa, this modern home-friendly version combines warm spices, citrus, garlic, and a luscious green sauce made with fresh herbs and creamy elements to create a dish that feels both cozy and impressive. The aroma alone will have everyone hovering around the oven, and trust me, you’re going to love this. With easy, step-by-step instructions, anyone can recreate this restaurant-quality classic right at home and serve up something truly unforgettable.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

This ROASTED PERUVIAN-STYLE CHICKEN with CREAMY GREEN SAUCE stands out for its incredible balance of flavor and simplicity. The spice-rubbed chicken roasts up with golden, crackly skin while staying unbelievably tender inside, and the creamy green sauce brings freshness, gentle heat, and a silky finish that ties everything together. It’s perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or anytime you want a dish that feels special without being fussy. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this one’s a total game-changer, delivering bold flavor with very manageable effort.

All Ingredients You’ll Ever Need

• Whole chicken, 1.8 kg, spatchcocked or left whole
• Olive oil, 45 ml
• Fresh lime juice, 30 ml
• Garlic cloves, 6 cloves, finely minced
• Ground cumin, 6 g
• Smoked paprika, 6 g
• Ground coriander, 4 g
• Dried oregano, 4 g
• Salt, 12 g
• Black pepper, 4 g
• Fresh cilantro leaves, 40 g
• Fresh parsley leaves, 20 g
• Green chili or jalapeño, 1 medium, seeds removed for mild heat
• Greek yogurt, 180 g
• Mayonnaise, 60 g
• Lime juice for sauce, 15 ml
• Olive oil for sauce, 30 ml
• Salt for sauce, 4 g

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Rest Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Special Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Blender or food processor
• Roasting pan or baking dish
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Meat thermometer

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect ROASTED PERUVIAN-STYLE CHICKEN with CREAMY GREEN SAUCE

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Whisk until the mixture becomes glossy and fragrant, releasing warm, earthy aromas that instantly set the tone for this dish.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skin.
2. Rub the marinade generously over every part of the chicken, including under the skin where possible.
3. Massage it in well, making sure the spices coat the surface evenly for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Rest and Preheat

1. Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 20 minutes to absorb the marinade.
2. Preheat your oven to 220°C so it’s hot and ready to create that irresistible golden exterior.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken

1. Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast-side up.
2. Roast for 45 to 55 minutes, until the skin is deeply golden and the internal temperature reaches 74°C at the thickest part.
3. The kitchen will smell incredible, savory, citrusy, and just a little smoky.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Green Sauce

1. While the chicken roasts, add cilantro, parsley, green chili, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, olive oil, and salt to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and vibrant green, with a creamy, spoonable texture that looks as good as it tastes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to lock in the juices.
2. Carve and serve with generous spoonfuls of creamy green sauce on the side or drizzled over the top. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

• Serve warm for the juiciest texture and fullest flavor.
• Present on a large platter with the chicken cut into pieces for a rustic, inviting look.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for a pop of color.
• For an elegant touch, serve the green sauce in a small bowl alongside the chicken for dipping.

Extra Tips for Best Results

• Allowing the chicken to rest before roasting helps the spices penetrate deeper into the meat.
• Using a meat thermometer ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time without drying it out.
• Blend the sauce just before serving to keep its color bright and fresh.

Variations You Can Try

• Swap the herbs in the sauce with fresh basil for a slightly sweeter, aromatic twist.
• Use boneless chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken for quicker cooking and extra juiciness.
• Add roasted vegetables to the pan for a complete one-dish meal with minimal cleanup.

FAQ’s – 10 Most Common Questions About ROASTED PERUVIAN-STYLE CHICKEN with CREAMY GREEN SAUCE

Q1: Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

A: Yes, marinating overnight enhances the depth of flavor and makes the meat even more aromatic and tender.

Q2: Is the green sauce spicy?

A: The heat level is mild to medium and can easily be adjusted by reducing or increasing the chili.

Q3: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

A: Absolutely, the sauce can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored chilled in an airtight container.

Q4: What if I don’t have a blender?

A: A food processor works just as well, and you can even finely chop and whisk for a chunkier texture.

Q5: Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?

A: Yes, thighs or drumsticks work beautifully, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q6: How do I keep the chicken skin crispy?

A: Make sure the chicken is very dry before seasoning and roast at high heat without covering.

Q7: What sides pair well with this dish?

A: Roasted potatoes, rice, or a crisp green salad complement the bold flavors perfectly.

Q8: Can I grill this instead of roasting?

A: Yes, grilling adds a smoky note and works wonderfully with the same marinade.

Q9: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

A: The chicken reheats well, and the sauce stays creamy, making it great for planned meals.

Q10: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: The chicken can be frozen for up to two months, but the sauce is best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

ROASTED PERUVIAN-STYLE CHICKEN with CREAMY GREEN SAUCE is a show-stopping main course that’s surprisingly simple yet visually stunning. With its juicy interior, deeply spiced crust, and silky, herb-packed sauce, this recipe brings bold flavor and comforting warmth to your table. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again, because once you taste it, there’s no turning back.

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