Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Green Sauce (Aji Verde)
Marinated chicken thighs with a creamy, spicy green sauce — big Peruvian flavors with minimal effort. Marinate overnight for best results.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 5 cloves garlic, peeled
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Black pepper to taste
Green Sauce (Aji Verde):
- 3 jalapeños, seeded, ribs removed, roughly chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 green onions, chopped (green parts only)
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Puree garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, oil, cumin, paprika, oregano, and a pinch of black pepper in a blender.
- Place chicken in a large ziploc bag, add marinade, and refrigerate for 8 to 24 hours.
- For the green sauce, combine all ingredients except olive oil in a blender and process until smooth. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 350°F). Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess. Place on oiled grill grates.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes per side with the grill cover closed, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let rest a few minutes, then serve with the green sauce.
Notes
Can also roast at 500°F for about 30 minutes (tent with foil after 15), or air fry at 360°F for 12-15 minutes flipping halfway. Sub Greek yogurt or sour cream for the mayo if you prefer. Use serrano peppers instead of jalapeños for more heat.
Check out the Original Recipe.