Meats

Peruvian Chicken & Aji Verde Sauce

Chicken Marinade

  • 2 lb chicken thighs
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ cup lemon juice
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 2 tbsp salt
  • 4 tbsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp cumin
  • 2 tsp pepper
  • 2 tsp dried basil
  • 2 tsp sugar

Aji Verde

  • 1 bunch cilantro
  • 2 serrano or jalapeño (adjust to taste)
  • ½ avocado
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • ¼ cup water
  • 3 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • 3 tbsp cotija
  • 1 tsp salt

Directions

  • In a bowl, mix the marinade ingredients.
  • Marinate the chicken for 3 hours (the full 3 hours really lets the spices soak in).
  • Preheat oven to 400°F and bake for 35 to 45 minutes.
  • Blend the aji verde ingredients together.

NOTE: The avocado in the aji verde gives it that creamy texture without needing a ton of mayo or sour cream. Adjust the serrano or jalapeño depending on how spicy you like it. Credit: Caroline Cubero (@caroline.cubero).