Description
Succulent Peruvian grilled chicken skewers reveal Peru’s bold culinary traditions with marinated meat infused with aji amarillo and cilantro. Tender chicken pieces deliver authentic South American flavors you’ll savor with each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsps olive oil
- 2 tbsps lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 tsps ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp chili powder or aji panca paste
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsps Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 jalapeno, seeded (or keep seeds for more heat)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 garlic clove
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp grated cotija or feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Marinade Preparation: Whisk garlic, olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, cumin, paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl until thoroughly combined and aromatic.
- Chicken Marination: Submerge chicken pieces completely in the marinade, coating every surface. Seal and refrigerate for 2-8 hours to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Aji Verde Sauce Creation: Blend jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, Greek yogurt, pumpkin seeds, garlic, and olive oil until achieving a smooth, vibrant green consistency. Adjust seasoning and chill until serving.
- Skewer and Grill Setup: Soak wooden skewers in water, then thread marinated chicken evenly. Preheat grill to medium-high heat, lightly oiling grates to prevent sticking. Grill skewers, rotating periodically to ensure uniform charring and complete cooking.
- Serving Presentation: Transfer grilled skewers to a platter, accompanied by chilled Aji Verde sauce and garnished with fresh lime wedges for a zesty finishing touch.
Notes
- Prevent Wooden Skewer Burning: Soak skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent charring and potential flame flare-ups.
- Maximize Marinade Flavor: Allow chicken to marinate overnight in the refrigerator for deeper, more intense taste penetration and enhanced tenderness.
- Grill Temperature Control: Maintain medium-high heat to achieve perfect caramelization without burning the chicken, ensuring juicy interior and crispy exterior.
- Dietary Adaptation Options: Substitute chicken with tofu or plant-based protein for vegetarian version; use gluten-free soy sauce for gluten-sensitive diners; replace honey with agave for vegan alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg