Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce Recipe

Peruvian cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and unique culinary traditions. Among its most beloved dishes is Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce. This flavorful and aromatic dish combines tender chicken with a tangy and vibrant green sauce, creating a culinary experience that delights the senses. In this article, we’ll explore the recipe for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce, including its ingredients, preparation steps, serving suggestions, and health benefits.

Introduction to Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce, also known as “Pollo a la Brasa,” is a popular dish in Peru and has gained international acclaim for its delicious flavors and simplicity. The dish typically features marinated chicken cooked to perfection and served with a zesty green sauce made from cilantro, jalapenos, garlic, and other fresh ingredients.

Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken

To make Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Green Sauce:

• 1 bunch of fresh cilantro, stems removed
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of white vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Prepare Peruvian Chicken

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, white vinegar, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are evenly coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Preparing the Green Sauce:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, jalapeno peppers, garlic, mayonnaise, olive oil, white vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, adding more olive oil if necessary to achieve the desired consistency. Set aside.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.
3. Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are evenly spaced.
4. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is traditionally served with steamed white rice and a side of roasted potatoes or French fries. You can also serve it with a simple salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the dish.

Health Benefits of Peruvian Chicken

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a nutritious dish that offers several health benefits. Chicken is a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. The green sauce, made from fresh cilantro and jalapenos, is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamin C and vitamin K, which support immune function and promote overall health.

Variations of Peruvian Chicken

While the traditional recipe for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to customize the dish to your taste. For example, you can add additional herbs and spices to the marinade or adjust the heat level of the green sauce by adding more or fewer jalapenos.

Tips for Perfecting Your Peruvian Chicken

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the spices to penetrate the meat fully.
• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the green sauce to achieve the best flavor and texture.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the dish to your preferences.
• To make the chicken even more tender, consider brining it before marinating.

Conclusion

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its tender chicken and zesty green sauce, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something delicious for dinner, this Peruvian-inspired dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes Peruvian chicken unique?

Peruvian chicken is unique because of its flavorful marinade, which typically includes garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, and a blend of spices like paprika and cumin. The chicken is often roasted or grilled, resulting in tender meat with a crispy skin.

Can I make Peruvian chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. This allows the flavors to meld and infuse the chicken with delicious taste.

Is Peruvian chicken spicy?

Peruvian chicken can be spicy depending on the amount of jalapenos or other hot peppers used in the green sauce. You can adjust the heat level to your preference by adding more or fewer peppers.

Can I grill Peruvian chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, Peruvian chicken can be grilled for a smoky flavor. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How long does it take to marinate Peruvian chicken?

It’s best to marinate Peruvian chicken for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully develop and infuse the meat.

Source: platingsandpairings.com