Catch a whiff of smoky, marinated chicken sizzling on the grill, and you’ll be transported straight to a sun-soaked Peruvian fiesta. The aroma dances in the air, tantalizing your taste buds with promises of juicy tenderness and vibrant flavors that make your mouth water. This isn’t just any chicken; this is Peruvian Grilled Chicken, a dish that brings joy to gatherings, family dinners, or simply a cozy night in.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Peruvian Grilled Chicken
- How to Make Peruvian Grilled Chicken
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What is Peruvian Grilled Chicken?
- How do I make the marinade for Peruvian Grilled Chicken?
- What are some side dishes to serve with Peruvian Grilled Chicken?
- Can I make Peruvian Grilled Chicken in an oven?
- Conclusion for Peruvian Grilled Chicken :
- 📖 Recipe Card
Imagine sitting outside on a warm evening, laughter echoing around you as friends dig into this flavorful dish. It’s not just about the food; it’s about memories created over a shared meal. With each bite of succulent chicken bursting with spices and herbs, you’ll find yourself reminiscing about summer nights and barbecues long past while eagerly anticipating the next delicious morsel.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Peruvian Grilled Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy, these thighs are perfect for grilling as they hold moisture well.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves to add that aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors and helps tenderize the chicken.
- Cumin: This spice adds warmth and depth to your marinade; don’t skip it!
- Paprika: Use smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor that will transport you straight to Peru.
For the Marinade:
- Olive Oil: A healthy fat that helps coat your chicken and locks in moisture during grilling.
- Oregano: Dried oregano gives an earthy note that complements the other spices beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those wonderful flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Peruvian Grilled Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You’ll need a mixing bowl for your marinade and a zip-top bag for marinating the chicken.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In your mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is well blended—a fragrant concoction that will have you dreaming of Peru!
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place your boneless skinless chicken thighs into a zip-top bag. Pour in the marinade and seal tightly. Give it a gentle shake to ensure every piece is coated evenly. Let this sit in the fridge for at least an hour—or overnight if you want maximum flavor.
Step 4: Grill Time!
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or roughly 200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off—nobody likes a soggy grill!
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs directly onto the grill grates. Cook for about six to eight minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You should see those beautiful grill marks forming!
Step 6: Serve with Style
Once cooked through, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing. Transfer to plates and garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired for that pop of color!
Now grab some forks because it’s time to dig into your Peruvian Grilled Chicken masterpiece—your taste buds will thank you!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly grilled chicken, start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour to absorb those delicious flavors. While the grill heats up, prep your sides to keep everything flowing smoothly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs or spices in the marinade based on your taste buds. Want a spicy kick? Add some chili powder or fresh jalapeños. Prefer a sweeter note? Toss in pineapple juice instead of lemon.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on a skillet over medium heat until heated through, keeping that juicy goodness intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating overnight for a deeper infusion of spices.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each piece space to cook evenly and develop that perfect char.
Sometimes I whip up this Peruvian Grilled Chicken for family gatherings, and it’s always a hit! I still remember my cousin declaring it “the best chicken ever” while devouring seconds—definitely a chef’s ego boost!
FAQs :
What is Peruvian Grilled Chicken?
Peruvian Grilled Chicken, known as Pollo a la Brasa, is a flavorful dish that features marinated chicken cooked over high heat. The marinade often consists of garlic, spices, and herbs, giving the chicken a unique taste. This dish is typically served with sides like rice or salad, making it a hearty meal. The grilling method adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall experience. It’s popular in Peru and has gained international acclaim for its deliciousness.
How do I make the marinade for Peruvian Grilled Chicken?
To create the perfect marinade for Peruvian Grilled Chicken, combine ingredients such as garlic, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. For added depth of flavor, use lime juice and olive oil as your base. You can also incorporate mustard for a tangy kick. Marinate the chicken for at least four hours or overnight to let the flavors penetrate fully. This step ensures that every bite of chicken bursts with authentic Peruvian taste.
What are some side dishes to serve with Peruvian Grilled Chicken?
When serving Peruvian Grilled Chicken, consider pairing it with traditional sides such as cilantro rice or roasted vegetables. A fresh salad drizzled with lime dressing complements the rich flavors of the chicken well. Additionally, you can serve dipping sauces like spicy green sauce or huacatay (Peruvian black mint sauce) to enhance your meal further. These sides not only elevate your dining experience but also balance the richness of the grilled chicken.
Can I make Peruvian Grilled Chicken in an oven?
Yes, you can easily make Peruvian Grilled Chicken in an oven if you don’t have access to a grill. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 35-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For added browning and crispiness, broil the chicken for an additional 3-5 minutes at the end of cooking. This method will still yield deliciously tender and flavorful chicken.
Conclusion for Peruvian Grilled Chicken :
Peruvian Grilled Chicken offers a delightful culinary experience filled with bold flavors and aromas. By using a carefully crafted marinade and employing grilling techniques, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Pair this dish with vibrant side options to create a well-rounded meal that pleases everyone at your table. Whether enjoyed during casual gatherings or special occasions, this recipe embodies the essence of Peruvian cuisine and is sure to impress your family and friends.
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Peruvian Grilled Chicken
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Peruvian Grilled Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that brings the vibrant essence of Peru to your table. Juicy, marinated chicken thighs are grilled to perfection, resulting in smoky, tender bites that are perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe not only delivers incredible taste but also creates lasting memories with family and friends. Enjoy every mouthful of this authentic Peruvian delight at your next gathering or cozy dinner night.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Place chicken thighs in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal tightly and shake gently to coat evenly. Marinate for at least one hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F or 200°C). Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off.
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Allow chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 150g
- Calories: 313
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
