Phote credit: Sandra Salvassori
Looking to spice up your dinner routine? Dive into the flavors of Peru with this mouthwatering roast chicken recipe, complemented perfectly by a zesty green sauce. Simple yet bursting with taste, this dish will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Marinating the Chicken
Start by preparing the marinade. In a blender, blend together extra-virgin olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth consistency. Next, gently loosen the chicken’s skin and spread two-thirds of the marinade underneath, ensuring it’s well-distributed. Massage the remaining marinade onto the chicken’s surface. For optimal flavor infusion, refrigerate the chicken for at least 6 hours or, preferably, overnight.
Roasting to Perfection
When it’s time to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and set the marinated chicken on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast it for 20 minutes until the skin turns a golden hue. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting for approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Once done, allow the chicken to rest, covered with foil, for 20 minutes before carving.
Whipping Up the Green Sauce
While the chicken roasts, prepare the vibrant green sauce. In a blender, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh cilantro, jalapeño (seeds removed), garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture achieves a smooth texture. With the blender running, gradually add olive oil until the sauce thickens. Adjust the spiciness according to your preference by incorporating more jalapeño seeds.
Serving and Nutrition
Slice the succulent chicken and serve it alongside the tangy green sauce. Each serving is a delightful balance of flavors, with approximately 212 calories, 12g of protein, 18g of carbohydrates, 9g of fat, and 2g of fiber. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this Peruvian-inspired dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. Enjoy the fusion of juicy, tender chicken with the refreshing kick of the green sauce—a culinary adventure awaits!
