Dive into the vibrant flavors of Peru with our mouthwatering Roasted Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde! This dish is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. With succulent, crispy-skinned chicken thighs perfectly seasoned and paired with a zesty, herby Aji Verde sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving something delicious, this easy-to-follow recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Peruvian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Aji Verde:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, seeded
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. This helps remove excess moisture.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a spice rub.
- Thoroughly coat each chicken thigh with the spice mixture, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow proper air circulation.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- While chicken is roasting, prepare the Aji Verde sauce by combining cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, mayonnaise, and lime juice in a food processor.
- Blend the Aji Verde ingredients until smooth, adjusting salt and lime juice to taste.
- Once chicken is done, let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve chicken thighs hot, drizzled with Aji Verde sauce or served on the side for dipping.
Tips
- Patience is Key: For the crispiest skin, make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly before seasoning. This helps remove excess moisture that can prevent crispiness.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spice levels in the Aji Verde by adding more jalapeño or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting step after roasting! Allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes ensures that the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful.
- Make Ahead: The Aji Verde sauce can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and let the flavors meld together for an even more robust taste.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 145mg
