What makes Peruvian chicken different from regular roasted chicken?

Peruvian chicken stands out because of its bold marinade and that iconic aji verde sauce. The mix of garlic, cumin, paprika, and lime gives the meat a deep, smoky-citrus flavor, while the green sauce adds creamy heat and freshness. It’s balanced, bright, and anything but ordinary.

Can I make Peruvian chicken without a grill?

Absolutely. Baking works perfectly just roast it at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes. You’ll still get golden, juicy chicken with a crisp edge. For extra char, switch to the broiler for the last few minutes.

What does aji verde taste like?

Aji verde is creamy, tangy, and lightly spicy. It’s made with cilantro, lime, garlic, and jalapeño like a cross between a chimichurri and a zesty yogurt sauce. It’s the secret to that addictive flavor everyone remembers from their first bite of Peruvian chicken.

Is Peruvian chicken healthy?

Yes, very much so especially this version. It’s high in protein, naturally low in sugar, and uses Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for the sauce. Pair it with veggies, quinoa, or rice for a nutrient-balanced meal that’s satisfying without feeling heavy.

How long does Peruvian chicken last in the fridge?

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the aji verde sauce separate so it stays fresh and creamy. It’s great for meal prep, sandwiches, or quick salads during the week.

5-Star Peruvian Chicken Recipe | Easy, Protein-Packed Dinner

Name: Creamy Peruvian Chicken (Aji Verde) – Easy, Protein-Packed Dinner You’ll Crave
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lime juice (fresh); 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 cup fresh cilantro (stems included); 1 jalapeño, seeds removed (adjust for heat); 1 clove garlic; ½ cup Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional); Salt to taste; ½ ripe avocado (optional, for creaminess)

Creamy Peruvian Chicken (Aji Verde) – Easy, Protein-Packed Dinner You’ll Crave

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This Creamy Peruvian Chicken is a high-protein, flavor-packed dinner made with marinated chicken thighs baked to perfection and topped with a vibrant green aji verde sauce. Each bite delivers smoky, tangy, and spicy notes that feel restaurant-worthy yet simple enough for busy weeknights. It’s nourishing, comforting, and totally meal-prep friendly.

Author: Sophie Bennett - Top Choice Recipes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner, High-Protein
Method: Baked or Grilled
Cuisine: Peruvian, Latin American

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lime juice (fresh)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

For the Aji Verde Sauce:

1 cup fresh cilantro (stems included)
1 jalapeño, seeds removed (adjust for heat)
1 clove garlic
½ cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
Salt to taste
½ ripe avocado (optional, for creaminess)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken: Add chicken thighs, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for best flavor).
Bake or Grill: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). For grilled version, cook 12–15 minutes per side.
Blend the Sauce: Combine cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, Parmesan (if using), and avocado in a blender. Blend until smooth.
Serve: Drizzle aji verde over the chicken and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy warm with roasted potatoes or quinoa.

Notes

Let the chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking for juicier results.
The aji verde sauce keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days — perfect for drizzling over veggies or wraps.
For extra spice, leave in some jalapeño seeds.
Great meal-prep option: store in glass containers for easy reheating.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
Calories: 285 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 410 mg
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 33 g
Cholesterol: 105 mg

Find it online: https://www.topchoicerecipes.com/5-star-peruvian-chicken/