If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and creamy goodness, you’ll absolutely adore this Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Green Sauce Recipe. Juicy, tender roasted chicken pairs perfectly with a luscious, herb-packed sauce that is bright, tangy, and a little spicy all at once. It’s a beautiful balance between simple ingredients and bold personality that makes every bite a culinary celebration. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe promises a memorable meal filled with warmth and zest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this dish are straightforward yet essential, each contributing its own unique flavor and texture to the final masterpiece. From aromatic spices that coat the chicken to the fresh herbs and creamy elements in the sauce, every component plays a vital role in creating that iconic Peruvian flavor profile.
- Whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs): The star of the dish, offering juicy meat that soaks up all the seasoning beautifully.
- Olive oil: Helps in roasting the chicken to a golden perfection while adding richness.
- Paprika: Provides a mild smoky flavor and gorgeous color to the chicken skin.
- Cumin: Adds warm, earthy notes essential for authentic Peruvian seasoning.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Sprinkle layers of savory depth into the spice rub.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance and balance all other flavors.
- Lemon juice: Brings brightness and subtle acidity that tenderizes and uplifts the chicken.
- Fresh garlic (minced): Infuses a punch of aromatic intensity directly into the meat.
- Dried oregano: Adds a hint of herbal warmth to round out the spice blend.
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Offers a fresh, green burst that complements the creamy sauce.
- For the green sauce: Fresh cilantro leaves, mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, white vinegar, jalapeño peppers (de-seeded for mild heat), garlic cloves, salt, and pepper—all blended until smooth for that signature creamy cilantro green sauce.
How to Make Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Green Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Spice Rub
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help the chicken skin get crispy and golden. While the oven warms, mix together olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a small bowl. This magical spice rub is what flavors the chicken throughout and creates that iconic Peruvian taste.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Using your hands or a brush, generously rub the spice mixture all over the whole chicken. Be sure to get under the skin if possible so the flavors seep directly into the meat. This step sets the foundation for a deeply flavorful roast that is the hallmark of this Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Green Sauce Recipe.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Place the chicken on a roasting rack or in a baking dish, then put it in the oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), which means it’s perfectly cooked—moist inside with a crispy outer skin that you’ll love.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Cilantro Green Sauce
While the chicken roasts, it’s time to prepare the star sauce that gives this dish its unforgettable zing. In a food processor, blend fresh cilantro leaves, mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, white vinegar, jalapeños (with seeds removed for milder heat), garlic cloves, salt, and pepper until silky smooth and creamy. This sauce is fresh, tangy, and slightly spicy, crafting an irresistible companion for your roasted chicken.
Step 5: Rest and Slice the Chicken
Once your chicken is golden and cooked through, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender, which is key to achieving that extraordinary dining experience.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the chicken and either drizzle the creamy cilantro green sauce over it or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if you want an extra pop of color and herbal freshness. This final presentation will look stunning on the table and taste even better shared with loved ones.
How to Serve Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Green Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro sprigs are the easiest and most elegant garnish, adding a fresh, vibrant touch that visually lifts the dish. You might also add a few thin lemon wedges on the side, to give an optional burst of citrus brightness that complements the richness of the sauce and chicken.
Side Dishes
This Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Green Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with simple yet flavorful sides. Think fluffy white rice to soak up the sauce, roasted potatoes for a crispy, comforting bite, or a crisp green salad to lighten the plate. Grilled vegetables like asparagus or corn also complement the smoky notes of the chicken wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chicken deconstructed on a large platter with the creamy cilantro green sauce artistically drizzled across. Alternatively, slice the chicken into strips and create Peruvian chicken tacos with tortillas, extra sauce, and fresh toppings like avocado and pickled onions. This dish is versatile and ready to impress however you choose to serve it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover roasted chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken and the cilantro green sauce are kept separate to preserve the fresh flavor and texture of the sauce.
Freezing
If you want to keep leftovers longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken and the green sauce separately in freezer-safe containers. The chicken will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the oven or a skillet to maintain its crisp skin. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture rubbery. The creamy cilantro green sauce is best served cold or at room temperature, so add it fresh after warming the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or drumsticks work beautifully. Just adjust the roasting time to about 35-45 minutes depending on size, and keep an eye on the internal temperature.
Is the green sauce very spicy?
The jalapeños add a mild kick, but since the seeds are removed, the sauce isn’t overly spicy. You can always add fewer jalapeños or swap with a milder pepper if you prefer less heat.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes! The creamy cilantro green sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to two days. This makes it a great option for prepping ahead to save time on cooking day.
What should I serve with this dish for a complete meal?
Simple sides like steamed white rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad work beautifully. You could also serve it with grilled vegetables or quinoa for a wholesome, balanced meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Green Sauce Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone following a gluten-free diet.
Final Thoughts
This Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Green Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that brings warmth and excitement to your table. Its bold flavors, creamy sauce, and tender chicken make it a go-to for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it hard to resist going back for seconds and sharing it with friends and family alike.
Print
Peruvian Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Green Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Description
This Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce is a flavorful roasted whole chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of spices and lemon juice, paired with a creamy, zesty green sauce made from fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and a mix of mayonnaise and sour cream. Perfect for a hearty family meal, it combines traditional Peruvian flavors with easy preparation and a deliciously fresh sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
For the Green Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1–2 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is ready for roasting the chicken perfectly.
- Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. This mixture will form a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
- Rub the Chicken: Thoroughly coat the whole chicken with the spice mixture, making sure to cover all areas evenly for maximum flavor infusion.
- Roast the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on a roasting rack or in a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part.
- Prepare the Green Sauce: While the chicken is roasting, combine the cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, white vinegar, jalapeños, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy to create a bright, tangy sauce.
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute to keep the meat tender and juicy.
- Serve: Slice the rested chicken and serve it with the green sauce either on the side or drizzled on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired for an extra touch of freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee it is fully cooked.
- The green sauce can be adjusted in spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapeños according to taste.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute sour cream and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives.
- Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Resting the chicken after roasting is crucial to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
