There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of Peruvian Grilled Chicken wafting through your kitchen. Imagine juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of spices, garlic, and citrus, sizzling away on the grill as you eagerly anticipate that first bite. crispy hot honey chicken recipe It’s a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds and transports you straight to a sun-soaked Peruvian kitchen.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! I recall the first time I tried Peruvian Grilled Chicken at a local festival. The flavors were so bold and captivating that I found myself going back for seconds—and thirds—while trying to discreetly wipe away the sauce from my face. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this chicken is the star of the show! For more inspiration, check out this one-pot chicken meals recipe.
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 Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
- Fresh Cilantro: This herb adds a refreshing kick; opt for vibrant green leaves for maximum flavor. cilantro lime steak bowls.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice works best to brighten up the dish.
- Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances the marinade and keeps the chicken moist.
- Cumin: Ground cumin gives depth and an earthy flavor to the marinade.
- Paprika: Use smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor and color.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all flavors in your dish.
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 Marinade
In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. This fragrant concoction will be your chicken’s new best friend!
Step 2: Marinate Your Chicken
Add the boneless chicken breasts to the marinade. Make sure each piece is generously coated with that zesty goodness. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least an hour—or overnight if you want to take your flavors to another level.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
Get your grill fired up! Preheat it to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). If you’re using a grill pan indoors, heat it over medium heat until hot.
Step 4: Grill That Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade and let any excess drip off. Place it on the grill grates and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F/74°C). Flip it only once to get those beautiful grill marks!
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Once cooked through, transfer your grilled chicken onto a plate or cutting board. Let it rest for about five minutes before slicing—this step allows all those delicious juices to redistribute throughout.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Slice your chicken into strips or serve whole. Pair it with some grilled vegetables or serve over rice for a complete meal. Drizzle any leftover marinade (that has been cooked) over top for added flavor.
Trust me; once you’ve tasted this Peruvian Grilled Chicken, you’ll find yourself daydreaming about its zesty flavors long after dinner is over!
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
Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors penetrate. While it’s soaking up goodness, prepare your sides. Grill the chicken until golden brown, then let it rest for juicy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs like oregano or basil instead of cilantro. Want a spicy kick? Toss in some chili powder or paprika. You can also add veggies to the grill for a complete meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or on a skillet to keep it moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken rest after grilling to lock in juices.
- Marinate overnight if possible for deeper flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
After serving this dish at a family gathering, my cousin declared it “the best chicken I’ve ever had!” It’s little moments like these that make cooking so rewarding and fun!
FAQs:
What is Peruvian Grilled Chicken?
Peruvian Grilled Chicken, known as “Pollo a la Brasa,” is a flavorful dish that features marinated chicken grilled to perfection. The marinade typically includes spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic, creating a rich flavor profile. loaded potato taco bowls This dish often accompanies sides such as roasted potatoes or fresh salads, making it a popular choice for family gatherings and celebrations.
How do you make the marinade for Peruvian Grilled Chicken?
To create the marinade for Peruvian Grilled Chicken, combine ingredients like garlic, cumin, paprika, and lemon juice. You may also add olive oil for extra moisture and flavor. Marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight to allow the spices to penetrate deeply. This step ensures that every bite is packed with delicious flavors.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional Peruvian Grilled Chicken uses chicken, you can easily substitute it with beef, lamb, or turkey. Adjust the cooking times based on the meat you choose to ensure it remains juicy and flavorful. The marinade works well with various proteins, allowing you to explore different tastes while enjoying this culinary delight.
What are the best side dishes for Peruvian Grilled Chicken?
Peruvian Grilled Chicken pairs exceptionally well with several side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs or a refreshing salad made of mixed greens and citrus vinaigrette. baked chicken with feta vinaigrette Additionally, rice or quinoa can complement the dish nicely while absorbing the flavors from the chicken’s marinade.
Conclusion for Peruvian Grilled Chicken:
In summary, Peruvian Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish characterized by its bold flavors and tender meat. By using high-quality ingredients and an aromatic marinade, you can create a meal that impresses everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different meats or side dishes to personalize your experience. Enjoy this culinary journey into Peruvian cuisine!
Peruvian Grilled Chicken
Peruvian Grilled Chicken, or Pollo a la Brasa, is a flavorful dish that captures the essence of Peru. This juicy chicken is marinated in a vibrant blend of spices, garlic, and citrus, then grilled to perfection for a delightful flavor explosion. Perfect for barbecues or family dinners, this dish is sure to impress guests and satisfy your cravings with every bite.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 pounds)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine garlic, cilantro, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and ensure they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C).
- Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F/74°C).
- Transfer chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with grilled vegetables or over rice; drizzle with any cooked marinade for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: - For added heat, incorporate chili powder into the marinade. - Substitute chicken with beef or turkey if desired; adjust cooking times accordingly. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
