Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken with Aji Verde – Easy Halal Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting and exciting about sitting down to a plate of perfectly grilled chicken, especially when it’s been marinated in bold spices and herbs, kissed by a smoky grill, and paired with a creamy, herby sauce that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe for Peruvian-style grilled chicken with Aji Verde is everything I love about home cooking: bold, colorful, packed with punchy spices, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re planning a weekend cookout or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your table.

What makes this recipe truly special is the way the marinade transforms simple chicken thighs into something deeply savory and satisfying. The garlic, soy sauce, cumin, paprika, and lime juice work together to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with layers of flavor. But it doesn’t stop there. The real magic happens when you serve this smoky, spiced chicken alongside Aji Verde, a creamy Peruvian green sauce made with jalapeños, cilantro, garlic, and a mix of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. The contrast between the bold heat of the chicken and the cool, zesty sauce is absolutely irresistible.

I first tried a version of this dish years ago at a small Peruvian restaurant tucked away on the corner of a quiet street. I remember being blown away by how such simple ingredients could produce something so memorable. Since then, I’ve been tweaking and perfecting a halal-friendly version of the recipe that stays true to the original flavors while keeping things accessible for home cooks. This dish has quickly become a family favorite at our dinner table. It’s the kind of meal that gets requested often, and when I serve it to guests, there are never any leftovers.

Even if you’re not familiar with Peruvian cuisine, this recipe is a great place to start. It’s approachable, full of flavor, and comes together with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. Plus, you can prepare it using whatever cooking method suits your lifestyle—grill it for that authentic smoky taste, bake it in the oven for ease, or even pop it into the air fryer for a quick weekday dinner. However you make it, this Peruvian-style chicken is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Peruvian-style grilled chicken, especially when it’s paired with the iconic Aji Verde sauce. If you’re someone who loves meals that feel indulgent yet are actually made from wholesome ingredients, this recipe is for you. Let’s break down what makes it such a standout.

First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. The marinade used for the chicken is rich and vibrant, thanks to the combination of fresh garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika, and a splash of lime juice. These ingredients come together to create a depth of flavor that’s earthy, tangy, and a little smoky. Add soy sauce to the mix, and you’ve got that umami kick that makes each bite more addictive than the last. Whether grilled, baked, or air-fried, the chicken develops a beautifully caramelized exterior while staying juicy and tender inside.

Then there’s the Aji Verde sauce. It’s creamy, spicy, and bright, offering the perfect counterbalance to the warmth of the chicken. With jalapeños, cilantro, lime, and a blend of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise, the sauce is both cooling and fiery—an ideal companion to the bold flavors of the meat. It’s the kind of sauce you’ll want to drizzle over everything, from roasted veggies to sandwiches or even as a dip for fries.

You’ll also appreciate how versatile this recipe is. It works equally well for a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or even meal prep. The chicken can be marinated a day in advance, making it perfect for those times when you want something stress-free but still special. It’s also great for feeding a crowd, since it scales easily and looks incredibly impressive when served platter-style.

Another major plus is that this recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted for different dietary needs. And because it uses chicken thighs, which are more forgiving and flavorful than breasts, you don’t have to worry about overcooking. Every time you make it, the results will be juicy, flavorful, and consistently delicious.

Ultimately, this recipe offers everything you want in a go-to dish: it’s easy, delicious, family-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Once you try it, there’s a very good chance it’ll earn a permanent place in your weekly meal rotation.

Health Benefits of this Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken

While this dish is all about big flavor and comfort, it also happens to offer several nutritional benefits that make it a smart addition to your meal plan. It’s hearty enough to satisfy your cravings, yet light enough that you won’t feel weighed down afterward. Let’s take a closer look at the health perks of this chicken and Aji Verde combo.

First, the use of boneless, skinless chicken thighs provides a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune support, and maintaining a healthy metabolism. While thighs are slightly higher in fat than breasts, they offer more iron, zinc, and flavor—making them a delicious and nutrient-rich option. Additionally, the fat content in chicken thighs is still considered moderate and fits easily within a balanced diet.

The marinade ingredients aren’t just there for taste—they carry health benefits, too. Garlic is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Cumin has been studied for its role in digestion and metabolism. Lime juice is packed with vitamin C, which supports immune health and helps the body absorb iron from the chicken. Even spices like paprika and oregano contribute antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and support overall well-being.

Moving on to the Aji Verde sauce, you’ll find even more reasons to feel good about this meal. Fresh cilantro is rich in vitamins A and K and is believed to support detoxification. Jalapeños contain capsaicin, which may help with metabolism and pain relief. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and also delivers gut-friendly probiotics, calcium, and protein. Even the small amount of olive oil in the sauce contributes heart-healthy fats that can support cholesterol levels.

Because this recipe is grilled or baked rather than fried, it keeps the overall calorie count lower while still delivering that deeply satisfying texture and flavor. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for a range of eating styles, including low-carb and gluten-free diets.

In summary, this Peruvian-style chicken dish isn’t just tasty—it’s a balanced, nutrient-rich meal that fuels your body without sacrificing flavor. When paired with the herby green sauce and a side of vegetables or whole grains, it becomes a complete meal that supports your health goals while keeping you totally satisfied.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Before diving into the actual cooking, let’s go over the time commitment, serving size, and nutritional breakdown so you can plan ahead with ease. One of the best things about this recipe is how efficient it is in both prep and cooking time—making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.

Preparation Time: Marinating the chicken is the only step that requires planning ahead. The minimum recommended marinating time is 8 hours, though overnight (up to 24 hours) will give the best results. The actual prep work, including blending the marinade and the green sauce, takes about 20 minutes.

Cooking Time:

  • Grilling: 10–12 minutes total (5–6 minutes per side)
  • Oven Baking: 45 minutes (including foil time)
  • Air Fryer: 12–15 minutes

Total Active Time (Excluding Marination): Approximately 1 hour

Servings: This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes. If you’re serving sides like rice, salad, or roasted vegetables, it easily stretches to feed six.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving): These values are approximate and will vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredient brands:

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 700mg

The Aji Verde sauce adds about 90 calories per 2 tablespoons, mostly from the olive oil and mayonnaise. You can adjust the quantity or swap in more Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

This dish is naturally gluten-free and halal as long as you use halal-certified chicken and soy sauce. It’s also a great choice for those avoiding processed foods, since every part of it is made from scratch using fresh, whole ingredients.

Ingredients List of this Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken

Before you get started, gather everything you’ll need to make both the chicken and the Aji Verde sauce. Most of these are pantry staples or easy-to-find fresh ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what each one does in the recipe and why you shouldn’t skip them.

For the Chicken:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: This cut is ideal for grilling or baking. It stays moist and flavorful and absorbs marinade well.
  • 5 cloves garlic, peeled: Garlic gives the marinade a deep, savory aroma and adds a hint of natural spice.
  • ⅓ cup soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami. Be sure to use a low-sodium or halal-certified soy sauce if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice: Brings brightness and acidity, which helps tenderize the meat and balance the richness.
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly and locks in moisture during cooking.
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin gives the chicken a distinctly Peruvian depth.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and color.
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an herby layer of flavor.
  • Black pepper, to taste: For a bit of heat and balance.

For the Aji Verde (Green Sauce):

  • 3 jalapeños, seeded and chopped: These give the sauce its signature kick. You can leave some seeds in if you prefer it spicier.
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves: Essential for the herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color.
  • 2 green onions (green tops only), chopped: Mild, fresh onion flavor that doesn’t overpower.
  • 2 cloves garlic: Adds bite and depth.
  • ½ cup mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and body to the sauce.
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt: Adds tang and lightens the texture without sacrificing creaminess.
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens and lifts the entire sauce.
  • ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Balances the heat and acidity.
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Helps emulsify the sauce and adds a silky finish.

These ingredients come together to create a meal that’s full of flavor, balanced in texture, and nourishing. As always, using fresh, high-quality ingredients will take this recipe from good to great. Continue reading for step-by-step instructions on how to bring it all together.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s walk through each part of the cooking process step-by-step. From marinating the chicken to whipping up the Aji Verde and cooking everything to juicy perfection, this recipe is easy to follow—even if you’re new to the kitchen. Each step builds flavor, so take your time and enjoy the process.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

Start by making the marinade, which is the key to deep, delicious flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavor it absorbs, so give it as much time as possible.

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic cloves, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, oregano, and a few cracks of black pepper.
  2. Blend until the garlic is completely broken down and the marinade is smooth.
  3. Place your chicken thighs into a large zip-top bag or a glass dish with a lid.
  4. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are well-coated.
  5. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 8 hours, but ideally overnight for the best flavor.
  6. Every few hours, or at least once during the marinating process, give the bag a gentle shake or stir the chicken to redistribute the marinade evenly.

If you’re short on time, even 2–4 hours will impart flavor, but a full overnight soak will make a big difference in tenderness and taste.

Step 2: Make the Aji Verde (Green Sauce)

While your chicken is marinating, it’s the perfect time to make the Aji Verde. This green sauce is bright, spicy, creamy, and totally irresistible. It only takes a few minutes to prepare, but you’ll want to let it chill so the flavors can meld.

  1. Add the jalapeños, cilantro, green onion tops, garlic, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and black pepper to a blender or food processor.
  2. Pulse until mostly smooth. You may need to scrape down the sides once or twice.
  3. While the machine is running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to emulsify the sauce. This will give it a creamy, pourable consistency.
  4. Once fully blended and smooth, taste and adjust seasoning. You can add more lime juice for acidity or more jalapeños if you want extra heat.
  5. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

The sauce will keep in the fridge for up to five days, and it actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Now for the main event—cooking the chicken. You have several options depending on what equipment you have at home. Each method gives delicious results, so go with whatever works best for you.

Option 1: Grill (Best for Flavor)

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 350°F.
  2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
  3. Place the chicken thighs directly on the grill grates.
  4. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes on one side without moving the chicken. You want to develop a nice char.
  5. Flip and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes on the other side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and moist.

Option 2: Oven Roasting

  1. Preheat your oven to 500°F. Yes, that’s very hot, but this temperature helps the chicken brown beautifully.
  2. Place the marinated chicken thighs in a roasting pan or oven-safe dish. Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking and add moisture.
  3. Roast uncovered for 30 minutes.
  4. After 30 minutes, loosely tent the chicken with foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
  5. Check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F, then remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

This method results in juicy, tender chicken with a slightly crispy edge—ideal for winter months when grilling isn’t an option.

Option 3: Air Fryer

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F.
  2. Lightly grease the basket with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
  3. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
  4. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 6 to 8 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and the internal temp reaches 165°F.
  5. Let the chicken rest briefly before serving.

The air fryer gives you a nice charred look and texture without needing to fire up the grill. It’s a great quick-cook method for busy nights.

Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken

How to Serve this Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken

Once your Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken is cooked and the Aji Verde sauce is chilled to perfection, it’s time to serve it up. This dish is incredibly versatile, so you can keep it simple or build a full meal around it.

One of the most traditional ways to serve Peruvian-style grilled chicken is alongside steamed white rice or garlic rice, which acts as the perfect neutral base to absorb all the juicy flavors. Add a generous drizzle of the Aji Verde sauce over the top of the chicken—or serve it on the side so everyone can dip to their heart’s content.

If you want a lighter option, go for a fresh salad on the side. A crunchy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a lime vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the smoky chicken. Or serve the chicken over a bed of baby greens with avocado slices and cherry tomatoes for a more modern, bowl-style presentation.

Another fantastic serving idea is to create chicken wraps or sandwiches. Slice the grilled chicken into strips and tuck them into pita bread or a warm flatbread with shredded lettuce, cucumbers, and a generous slather of the green sauce. These make for great lunches or party bites.

You can also serve the chicken family-style, laid out on a large platter with bowls of rice, salad, and sauce on the side. Let everyone build their own plate—it’s casual, fun, and perfect for gatherings.

No matter how you serve it, don’t forget to top everything with a little extra chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. The freshness lifts the whole dish and brings out the complexity of the spices.

Pairing Suggestions for this Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken

This dish is packed with robust flavors, so it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or a lively weekend cookout, choosing the right pairings can enhance the meal and make it feel complete.

Side Dishes:

  • Cilantro-lime rice: This adds brightness and subtly complements the spices in the chicken. The citrus in the rice echoes the lime in the marinade and sauce.
  • Roasted vegetables: Try roasted sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers. Their natural sweetness balances the savory intensity of the chicken.
  • Corn on the cob: Grilled corn brushed with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt is a simple yet flavorful choice.
  • Potato wedges or yuca fries: If you want something heartier, these starchy sides are satisfying and great for dipping into the Aji Verde.
  • Simple cucumber and tomato salad: The crunch and juiciness of fresh veggies offer a refreshing contrast to the spice and creaminess of the sauce.

Bread Options:

  • Warm flatbread or pita: Use them to create wraps or just to scoop up extra sauce.
  • Soft dinner rolls or buns: Ideal if you want to serve the chicken as sliders or sandwiches.

Beverages:

  • Iced mint lemonade: Bright, refreshing, and great for balancing the heat of the jalapeños.
  • Sparkling water with lime: Simple and palate-cleansing.
  • Fruit-infused herbal tea: Hibiscus or citrus teas served cold can offer a lovely floral counterpoint to the savory chicken.

By selecting complementary sides and drinks, you can turn this flavorful main into a balanced and satisfying meal that feels like a celebration.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this Peruvian-style grilled chicken is how well it stores. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make in a big batch because the leftovers are just as good—if not better—the next day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving extras for later, here’s how to keep everything fresh and flavorful.

How to Store Leftovers

Once the chicken has cooled to room temperature, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Be sure not to leave it sitting out for more than two hours, especially during warmer weather, to avoid bacterial growth.

As for the Aji Verde sauce, it should be stored in a separate airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days, though the flavors may intensify slightly as it sits. If the sauce thickens in the fridge, just stir in a teaspoon or two of lime juice or water to loosen it up before serving.

Freezing Instructions

This chicken is very freezer-friendly. To freeze, follow these steps:

  1. Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely.
  2. Place it in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm (about 1–2 hours).
  3. Transfer the frozen chicken to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date.

The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Note: The Aji Verde sauce is not ideal for freezing due to the dairy content, which may separate or become grainy once thawed. It’s best to make the sauce fresh or store it in the fridge for short-term use.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, you have several options:

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place the chicken in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth, cover with foil, and heat for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
  • Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet over medium heat. Cover and steam for 5–7 minutes, flipping once.
  • Microwave: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Avoid overcooking during reheating, as this can dry out the meat. Serve with freshly made or leftover Aji Verde sauce to revive the flavors and bring everything back to life.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in this Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken

Even though this Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken recipe is quite straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Knowing what to watch out for will help you avoid hiccups and ensure your chicken turns out perfect every time.

1. Not Marinating Long Enough

The marinade is essential for tenderizing the chicken and building flavor. If you skip this step or don’t give the chicken enough time to soak, the end result may be bland. Aim for at least 8 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor infusion.

2. Overcrowding the Pan or Grill

Whether you’re using a grill, oven, or air fryer, giving the chicken space is key. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of searing, which can make the chicken soggy. Cook in batches if necessary to allow even heat circulation and proper browning.

3. Not Checking the Internal Temperature

It’s easy to assume chicken is done just by looking, but using a meat thermometer ensures accuracy. The safe internal temperature for chicken thighs is 165°F. Undercooked chicken is dangerous, and overcooked chicken can be dry—even with thighs.

4. Skipping the Resting Period

Once your chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This short break allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it juicy and tender. Cutting into it too soon lets those juices run out onto the cutting board.

5. Serving Without Sauce

The Aji Verde isn’t just a garnish—it’s an essential part of the dish. Skipping it would be like eating fries without ketchup. The sauce balances the savory richness of the chicken with its creamy, herby brightness. Make sure you’ve got enough on hand for dipping and drizzling.

Avoiding these simple missteps will make a big difference in your final dish, turning a good meal into a great one.

Pro Tips of this Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken

Ready to level up your cooking game? These tried-and-true pro tips will help you get the absolute best results from this recipe—whether it’s your first time making it or your fiftieth.

1. Use Fresh Ingredients for the Best Flavor

It may be tempting to use jarred garlic or bottled lime juice, but fresh really is better here. Fresh garlic has a sharper bite and more aroma, while freshly squeezed lime juice gives the marinade and sauce that crisp, zesty brightness that bottled versions just can’t replicate.

2. Blend the Sauce Until Completely Smooth

When making the Aji Verde, don’t rush the blending step. Let your blender or food processor run until the sauce is completely emulsified and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a tiny splash of water or more lime juice until it reaches the perfect consistency.

3. Adjust the Spice Level to Taste

Everyone’s heat tolerance is different. You can control the spiciness of the sauce by how many jalapeño seeds you leave in. For a milder version, remove all seeds. For more heat, leave some or all of them in. You can also add a pinch of cayenne if you want to turn up the fire.

4. Toast the Spices for Extra Depth

If you have time, lightly toasting the cumin and paprika in a dry pan for 1–2 minutes before adding them to the marinade will release their essential oils and deepen their flavors. This is a small step with a big payoff.

5. Let the Sauce Sit Before Serving

While the green sauce is delicious straight out of the blender, it gets even better after chilling for a few hours. The flavors meld together, the heat mellows slightly, and the consistency thickens. For best results, make it ahead of time and refrigerate until serving.

Following these tips ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, texture, and that satisfying balance of spice, creaminess, and char.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You might have a few questions before diving into this recipe, especially if it’s your first time making Peruvian-style chicken or Aji Verde. Here are some common questions with helpful answers to guide you.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they cook faster and can dry out more easily. If you go this route, pound the breasts to an even thickness and reduce the cooking time by a few minutes per side. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Is the green sauce spicy?

The spiciness of Aji Verde depends on how many jalapeño seeds you leave in. With all seeds removed, it’s mild to medium. If you leave in the seeds or use an extra pepper, it can be quite spicy. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Replace the Greek yogurt in the sauce with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or just use more mayonnaise. You’ll still get that creamy texture with a slightly different flavor profile.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No grill? No problem. This recipe works just as well in the oven or air fryer. Both methods give you juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal fuss. See the earlier cooking section for detailed instructions for each method.

Can I freeze the raw marinated chicken?

Yes, this is a great meal prep tip. Place the raw chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight, then cook as directed.

How long can I keep leftovers?

Cooked chicken will last in the fridge for 3–4 days if stored properly in an airtight container. The Aji Verde sauce is good for up to 5 days in the fridge.

What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?

Cilantro is pretty essential for the green sauce, but if you absolutely must substitute, you can try parsley or a mix of parsley and mint. Just note that the flavor will be different, though still tasty.

Can I serve this dish cold?

Yes, leftover grilled chicken is delicious cold, especially in wraps, salads, or sandwiches. Just be sure to store it properly and consume within a few days.

Do I need a food processor to make the sauce?

A food processor or blender is ideal for getting that smooth, creamy consistency. If you don’t have one, you can finely chop everything by hand and mix it well—it won’t be quite as silky, but it’ll still taste great.

Can kids eat this?

Definitely. Just adjust the spice level in the Aji Verde to make it milder for younger palates. The chicken itself isn’t spicy and is usually a big hit with kids thanks to its tender, juicy texture.

Conclusion & Call to Action

There’s something magical about a recipe that hits every note—savory, smoky, tangy, creamy, spicy—and still manages to be simple enough for a weeknight dinner. This Peruvian-style grilled chicken with Aji Verde is exactly that kind of dish. It brings together the comfort of home cooking with the bold, irresistible flavors of a restaurant-quality meal.

From the deeply marinated chicken thighs to the vibrant green sauce that ties everything together, each element of this recipe has been crafted to deliver maximum flavor with minimum fuss. Whether you’re grilling it up for a summer BBQ, baking it for a cozy dinner indoors, or air-frying it for a quick and easy weeknight meal, this recipe adapts beautifully to your lifestyle and kitchen tools.

More than that, it’s a dish that brings people together. Serve it family-style with a platter of sides and a big bowl of sauce, and watch it disappear before your eyes. It’s kid-friendly, guest-approved, and totally customizable—perfect for those moments when you want to feed your loved ones something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

I hope this recipe becomes a go-to in your kitchen like it has in mine. If you give it a try, I’d absolutely love to hear how it turned out. Share your experience in the comments, and if you’re on social media, tag your photos so I can see your delicious creations. Your version might even inspire someone else to try it for the first time.

So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill or oven, and get ready to experience one of the most flavorful chicken recipes you’ll ever make. Happy cooking!

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Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken

Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken with Aji Verde – Easy Halal Recipe


  • Author: Clara Whisk
  • Total Time: 8+ hours (including marination)
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Juicy, spiced Peruvian-style grilled chicken marinated in garlic, cumin, lime, and soy sauce, paired with a creamy, zesty Aji Verde green sauce.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

  • 5 garlic cloves

  • ⅓ cup soy sauce

  • 2 tbsp lime juice

  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 2 tsp ground cumin

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp dried oregano

  • Black pepper, to taste

For the Aji Verde Sauce:

  • 3 jalapeños, seeded and chopped

  • 1 cup cilantro leaves

  • 2 green onions (green tops only)

  • 2 garlic cloves

  • ½ cup mayonnaise

  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt

  • 1 tbsp lime juice

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil


Instructions

  • Blend garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, oil, cumin, paprika, oregano, and pepper. Marinate chicken in the mixture for 8–24 hours.

  • Blend all sauce ingredients except olive oil. Drizzle in oil slowly until smooth. Chill.

  • Grill chicken over medium-high heat for 5–6 mins per side, or bake at 500°F for 30 mins + 15 mins covered. Air fry at 360°F for 12–15 mins, flipping once.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken overnight for best flavor.

  • Adjust jalapeños in sauce for desired spice level.

  • Aji Verde can be made ahead and chilled for up to 5 days.

  • Use halal-certified soy sauce and chicken.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30–45 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling, Baking, Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Peruvian-Inspired

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