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Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce – Bold, Zesty & Packed with Flavor

This Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce is an explosion of bold, vibrant flavors that instantly transports you to the heart of Peruvian cuisine. Juicy, perfectly marinated chicken is grilled until smoky and golden, then paired with an iconic creamy green sauce that’s tangy, garlicky, and irresistibly fresh. What makes this dish unforgettable is the contrast: warm, charred chicken meets a cool, herbaceous sauce with just the right kick. It’s perfect for summer grilling, family dinners, or anytime you want to break out of routine and add something exciting to your table. If you love grilled chicken recipes, bold global flavors, and sauces that steal the show, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 27 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Peruvian-Style Chicken Marinade
  • 2 lbs chicken thighs or chicken breasts boneless and skinless
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice fresh
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the Creamy Green Sauce
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 jalapeño seeds removed for mild heat
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice fresh
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Ingredient Notes:
  • Chicken thighs offer maximum juiciness; breasts work great for leaner meals.
  • Cilantro is essential for authentic Peruvian green sauce.
  • Greek yogurt lightens the sauce while keeping it creamy.

Equipment

  • Outdoor grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Blender or food processor
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs
  • Tip: A grill pan works beautifully if outdoor grilling isn’t an option.

Method
 

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
  1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Add chicken and toss to coat thoroughly.
  3. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour (up to 12 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Green Sauce
  1. Add cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Taste and adjust salt or lime as needed.
  4. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
  1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  2. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
  1. Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off.
  2. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until fully cooked and nicely charred.
  3. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  4. Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Slice & Serve
  1. Slice chicken if desired.
  2. Serve hot with generous drizzle or side of creamy green sauce.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days
Reheating
Reheat chicken gently on a grill pan or skillet
Serve sauce cold or at room temperature
Tip: The sauce flavor improves after resting overnight.
🥄 Variations
Spicier Sauce
Add extra jalapeño or chili
Low-Carb Option
Serve with grilled vegetables or salad
Oven Method
Bake chicken at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes
Dairy-Free Sauce
Use all mayonnaise instead of yogurt
Herb Twist
Add parsley or mint to the sauce
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this authentic Peruvian-style chicken?
It’s inspired by classic Peruvian flavors.
Is the green sauce spicy?
Mild to medium, adjustable.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, adjust cooking time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes, great for weekly meals.
Does cilantro overpower the sauce?
No, it balances perfectly.
Can I freeze the chicken?
Yes, freeze cooked chicken up to 2 months.
What sides go best?
Rice, roasted potatoes, or salad.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, reduce jalapeño for kids.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—perfect for crowds.
🏁 Conclusion
This Peruvian grilled chicken with creamy green sauce is bold, fresh, and unforgettable. Juicy, spice-rubbed chicken paired with a vibrant cilantro sauce creates a meal that feels exciting yet comforting—perfect for grilling season or anytime you want big flavor with simple steps.
Once you try this dish, it’s guaranteed to become one of your most requested chicken recipes.