If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the vibrant flavors of Peru in your own kitchen, this Peruvian Roasted Chicken With Spicy cilantro Sauce Recipe is just the ticket. Picture a whole roasted chicken, perfectly golden and juicy, infused with fragrant garlic and a subtle hint of paprika, paired with a bright, zesty cilantro sauce that brings a kick of heat and a refreshing herbaceous note. This dish is a celebration of bold flavors balanced with simple, fresh ingredients that will make any meal feel like a special occasion. It’s comforting, exciting, and surprisingly easy to master – you’re going to love sharing it with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role, combining to create a dish that’s flavorful, colorful, and just bursting with personality. The beauty here lies in the simplicity of these essentials that work together so seamlessly to deliver remarkable taste and texture.
- Whole chicken (4-5 lbs): The star of the show, providing tender, juicy meat to soak up all those wonderful flavors.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (1/4 cup): Adds richness and helps achieve that gorgeous golden skin while roasting.
- Garlic cloves, minced (6): Brings a fragrant depth and savory punch to the rub.
- Fresh cilantro leaves (1 cup): Essential for the vibrant, herbaceous note in the spicy sauce.
- Jalapeño peppers (2, seeds removed for milder heat): Adds a controlled heat that livens up the cilantro sauce perfectly.
- Juice of 2 limes: Infuses the sauce with brightness and balances the richness of the chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The basic seasoning foundation that enhances every bite.
How to Make Peruvian Roasted Chicken With Spicy cilantro Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Give your chicken a quick wash under cold water, then pat it completely dry to help the skin crisp up beautifully. Now, season it generously all over with salt and pepper. This simple step locks in flavor and ensures every bite is tasty.
Step 2: Make the Garlic-Paprika Rub
In a small bowl, whisk together your olive oil, the minced garlic, and a touch of paprika. This fragrant mixture is going to coat the chicken and form the flavorful crust we all adore in roasted poultry. Rub this mixture thoroughly all over the bird, making sure no spot is missed.
Step 3: Roast Until Golden and Juicy
Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan and slide it into your hot oven. Roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the skin turns an irresistible golden brown and the juices run clear when pierced. To be perfectly safe, check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Prepare the Spicy Cilantro Sauce
While your chicken is roasting, it’s time for the vibrant hit of flavor: the spicy cilantro sauce. Toss together the fresh cilantro leaves, the deseeded jalapeño peppers, lime juice, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and bright green – this saucy companion is the star partner to your roasted chicken.
Step 5: Rest and Carve
Once the chicken is cooked through, let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period allows all the juices to redistribute, ensuring each carve is tender and moist. Then slice it up, ready for plating with that zesty sauce drizzled generously on top or served alongside.
How to Serve Peruvian Roasted Chicken With Spicy cilantro Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness on top makes a dish sing, and for this recipe that means extra cilantro leaves finely chopped, a few thin slices of jalapeño for those who love more heat, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika to echo the warm flavors in the rub. A wedge of lime on the side helps guests add a touch more citrus zing if desired.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs brilliantly with simple sides that let the main shine. Think fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce, grilled vegetables for a smoky touch, or a fresh green salad with avocado to add creaminess and balance. Roasted potatoes or sweet yams also complement the robust flavors spectacularly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual feast, serve the chicken whole on a rustic wooden board surrounded by colorful bowls of the salsa and sides. Want to impress dinner guests? Carve the chicken and arrange slices over a bed of rice, then drizzle the spicy cilantro sauce artfully on top. For a fun twist, use the shredded chicken in warm tortillas topped with the sauce for a Peruvian-inspired taco night.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and pop it into the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy those vibrant Peruvian flavors long after the first meal.
Freezing
If you want to keep the chicken for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It should keep well for up to 2 months without losing much flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) to preserve moisture and crispness. If you prefer, microwave in shorter bursts and keep the spicy cilantro sauce separate so you can refresh it before serving, maintaining its lively flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or drumsticks will work well and may even cook faster. Adjust your roasting time accordingly and follow the same seasoning and sauce steps for that classic Peruvian flavor.
How spicy is the cilantro sauce?
The sauce has a gentle heat from the jalapeños, which you can control by removing seeds or adding fewer peppers. It’s meant to complement, not overpower, the savory roasted chicken, offering a lively kick.
Can I make the cilantro sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated. Give it a good stir or a quick blend before serving to refresh its vibrant color and taste.
What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
Fresh cilantro is key for that signature flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, try fresh parsley for a milder, less pungent green herb alternative. The flavor will shift slightly but still be delicious.
Is there a substitute for lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is best for its brightness, but fresh lemon juice makes a fine substitute. Avoid bottled juices if you want the freshest, most vibrant sauce possible.
Final Thoughts
This Peruvian Roasted Chicken With Spicy cilantro Sauce Recipe is a beautiful way to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress guests with something authentic yet approachable. The balance of savory roasted chicken and zesty, spicy sauce creates a harmony of flavors that’s truly unforgettable. Give this recipe a whirl—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
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Peruvian Roasted Chicken With Spicy cilantro Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Description
This Peruvian Roasted Chicken recipe features a whole chicken expertly seasoned and roasted to golden perfection, accompanied by a vibrant and spicy cilantro sauce made with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice. The dish is a flavorful and aromatic classic that delivers a perfect balance of zest, heat, and succulence, ideal for a family meal or special gathering.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs)
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Spicy Cilantro Sauce
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed for milder heat
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Generously season the chicken all over with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and paprika. Rub this aromatic mixture evenly all over the chicken to create a flavorful crust during roasting.
- Roast the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan. Roast it in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the juices run clear when pierced.
- Prepare the Spicy Cilantro Sauce: While the chicken is roasting, combine fresh cilantro leaves, jalapeño peppers (with seeds removed for mildness), lime juice, salt, and olive oil in a blender. Blend until the sauce is smooth and vibrant.
- Check Doneness and Rest: Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part. Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to distribute juices evenly before carving.
- Serve: Carve the roasted chicken and serve it with generous drizzles of the spicy cilantro sauce for a zesty and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Removing the seeds from the jalapeños reduces the heat of the sauce, but you can keep them for a spicier kick.
- Letting the chicken rest after roasting ensures juicy, tender meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe and perfect doneness every time.
- This dish pairs well with rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- For extra crispy skin, you can pat the chicken dry and leave it uncovered in the fridge for a few hours before roasting.
