If you’re looking for a chicken dish that’s juicy, smoky, and bursting with flavor, Peruvian Chicken (Pollo a la Brasa) is a recipe you must try. Known as one of Peru’s most famous dishes, this rotisserie-style chicken is marinated in bold spices, roasted until golden brown, and served with a vibrant green sauce called aji verde.

The best part? You don’t need a rotisserie oven to make it at home. With the right marinade and simple roasting techniques, you can create authentic Peruvian chicken in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon smoked chili powder (aji panca if available)

For the Green Sauce (Aji Verde):

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 jalapeños (seeded for less heat)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste

✅ Pro Tip: For authentic results, get a good-quality roasting pan like this one (Sponsored).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Make the Marinade

• In a bowl, mix soy sauce, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, oregano, pepper, and chili powder.
• Rub this marinade all over the chicken (outside and under the skin if possible).
• Marinate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight in the fridge.

2: Roast the Chicken

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Place chicken breast-side up on a roasting rack.
• Roast for about 75–90 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices.
• Check internal temperature (165°F in the thickest part of the breast).

3: Make the Green Sauce

• In a blender, combine cilantro, jalapeños, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
• Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning.

4: Serve

• Carve the chicken and serve with green sauce on the side.
• Traditional sides include French fries or roasted potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crispy roasted potatoes and salad.
• Pair with fried yuca or rice.
• Add grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Make it a party platter with dipping bowls of green sauce.

Variations & Tips

• Grill It: Cook chicken on a charcoal grill for smoky flavor.
• Shortcut: Use chicken thighs instead of a whole bird for quicker cooking.
• Spice Control: Adjust jalapeños in the green sauce for heat preference.
• Meal Prep: Marinate chicken the night before and roast next day.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: ~420
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fat: 28g

FAQs About Peruvian Chicken

Q: What makes Peruvian chicken unique?
The marinade combines soy sauce, garlic, and Peruvian spices like aji panca for a deep, smoky flavor.

Q: Can I make this without a whole chicken?
Yes! Use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for faster cooking.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
Up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in oven for best texture.

Q: Is the green sauce spicy?
Mild to medium—depending on how many jalapeños you use.

Pro Tips for Success

• Always marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid dry chicken.
• Make extra green sauce—it goes great on sandwiches and veggies.

Conclusion

Peruvian Chicken is a dish that brings the flavors of Peru right into your kitchen. Juicy roasted chicken, bold seasonings, and that addictive creamy green sauce make it a recipe you’ll cook again and again.

Whether you’re hosting friends, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something different, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.