Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde (Green Sauce)

Juicy grilled chicken + creamy, spicy cilantro sauce = flavor explosion!
If you’re craving bold Latin American flavors, this Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde is about to become your new weeknight favorite! The chicken is marinated in a smoky, citrusy spice blend, then grilled to perfection and served with the star of the show: Aji Verde, a creamy, tangy green sauce made with fresh cilantro, jalapeño, lime, and garlic.
It’s smoky, herby, creamy, and spicy all in one—and it’s surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
For the Aji Verde Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
Add the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
2️⃣ Blend the Aji Verde
In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Blend until silky smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
3️⃣ Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the marinated chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4️⃣ Serve and Drizzle
Plate the sliced chicken and generously drizzle with Aji Verde. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color.
⏱️ Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinate Time: 30–120 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: Up to 1.5 hours
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~360 per serving
Tips & Serving Suggestions
- Make it a meal: Serve with roasted potatoes, cilantro-lime rice, or a crisp green salad.
- Make it spicy: Leave the jalapeño seeds in or add a second pepper for extra heat.
- Sauce hack: Leftover Aji Verde is amazing as a dip for fries, roasted veggies, or shrimp tacos!
Why You’ll Love It
This dish is quick, protein-packed, and totally bursting with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking to impress, this Peruvian chicken and green sauce combo delivers every time.