Best Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce Recipe

Name: Best Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce
Prep time: 4 h
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 4 h 45 min
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons oregano; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (packed); 1/4 cup fresh parsley; 2 jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat); 2 garlic cloves; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt

January 1, 2026 by Mae

Plate of best Peruvian chicken served with creamy green sauce

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Savor the Flavor: Best Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce Recipe

There’s something truly magical about the inviting aroma of roasted chicken wafting through your kitchen, enveloping every corner with its savory embrace. It conjures images of loved ones gathered around the table, laughter spilling into the air, and shared stories weaving together the fabric of life. Today, we’re diving deep into a flavorful experience that embodies these cherished moments— the Best Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce Recipe. Juicy, marinated chicken infused with vibrant spices, paired with a zesty, creamy green sauce, brings comfort and excitement to your dining table, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

Imagine the first bite, where the crisp skin and tender meat dance deliciously on your palate, while the creamy sauce adds a touch of coolness and depth to every mouthful. This dish is not only a feast for the senses, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity to display the rich and diverse culinary influences of Peru. Cook it for your family, share it with friends, or even enjoy it solo with a glass of wine, and you’ll find that it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen repertoire.

Setting the Scene

Picture a bustling kitchen, the kind where the light pours in warmly, illuminating counters adorned with fresh ingredients and the gentle sounds of chopping and sizzling fill the air. It’s the perfect scene to gather family or friends for a meal that promises flavor and festivity. As the chicken marinates, it absorbs the refreshing echoes of lime, the earthy presence of cumin, and the tantalizing aroma of garlic. You can almost hear the soft crackling of the skin as it roasts to perfection in the oven, transforming your kitchen into a fragrant sanctuary.

This recipe isn’t just about cooking; it’s a celebration of the vibrant textures and tastes that Peruvian cuisine so lovingly showcases. The final reveal is nothing short of spectacular: golden brown chicken proudly resting on a platter, with a glossy, green sauce ready to be drizzled or dipped. The allure of this dish lies in its ability to cater to various occasions—weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or gatherings that call for something a bit more special.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive into the delightful preparation, let’s gather all the fantastic ingredients and tools you’ll need to create this sensational dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
4 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons oregano
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Creamy Green Sauce:

1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup fresh cilantro (packed)
1/4 cup fresh parsley
2 jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
2 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt

Tools

Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking sheet
Wire rack (optional)
Blender or food processor
Meat thermometer

How to Make It

Creating the Best Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce Recipe is as easy as it is rewarding. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure, step-by-step.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To start this flavor journey, grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Once blended, it transforms into a fragrant marinade that promises to infuse the chicken with an explosion of taste.

Now, lovingly add the chicken thighs and drumsticks, tossing them in the marinade until each piece is generously coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least four hours, though overnight is best. The longer it sits, the more intensely flavorful it becomes, with the inviting notes of spice and citrus developing beautifully over time.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temp will help achieve that perfect crispy skin we all crave. While the oven warms, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper—this makes for easy cleanup later. If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet, allowing for air circulation around the chicken, which is key for a crispy finish.

Arrange the marinated chicken pieces with their skin-side facing up on the rack, creating a visually appealing presentation that foreshadows a delightful meal to come.

Step 3: Roast the Chicken

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the magic happen! Roast the chicken for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). As the chicken cooks, the sizzle of the skin turning golden brown fills the kitchen, and you’ll find yourself eagerly checking in on the progress.

For an irresistible touch, broil the chicken for the last three minutes to achieve extra char and crunch. The sheer sight of that crispy, glistening chicken is enough to make your mouth water.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Green Sauce

As the chicken roasts, it’s time to whip up the vibrant creamy green sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, packed cilantro, fresh parsley, jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and salt. Blend until the mixture is silky smooth and a vivid green, reminiscent of a lush Peruvian landscape.

Take a moment to taste your creation, adjusting the seasoning or spice level if desired. The sauce should be refreshing and zesty, perfectly complementing the savory notes of the chicken.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Once the chicken is beautifully roasted, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few moments to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve the succulent pieces on a warm platter with a generous bowl of the creamy green sauce nearby for dipping or drizzling. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, fluffy rice, or a fresh salad to round out the meal.

The moment you take your first bite—the combination of crispy chicken and zesty sauce—is sure to transport you to the heart of Peru. Gather ’round the table and watch your loved ones delight in a dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Creative Twists

While the Best Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce Recipe is a stellar dish in its own right, consider these delightful twists to keep things fresh and exciting:

Seasonal Flavors: In the summer, try adding fresh mango or avocado slices for a tropical flair. In the fall, consider incorporating roasted butternut squash as a side for a seasonal touch.
Herb Infusions: Experiment with different herbs in the creamy green sauce. Cilantro and parsley can be swapped for fresh basil or mint for a unique twist.
Spice Variations: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of your favorite hot sauce into the marinade or creamy sauce.
Protein Swaps: This recipe isn’t limited to chicken. Try marinating pork tenderloin or even firm vegetables like eggplant for a vegetarian option.
Make It a Feast: Create a complete Peruvian meal by serving the chicken with traditional side dishes like Peruvian corn or quinoa salad, adding depth and variety to your dining experience.

Final Inspiration

As you embark on making the Best Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce Recipe, let it be more than just a meal. Embrace the stories, connections, and flavors that come together in your kitchen and around your dining table.

Whether you’re indulging in its warmth on a quiet evening or celebrating with friends and family, this dish promises to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire. So, dive in, savor every bite, and share the joy of this vibrant recipe with those you love. Let’s make it a delicious tradition that brings everyone together!