Peruvian Chicken Recipe With Aji Amarillo Brush

I’ve always loved how a simple meal can bring so much joy to the family table. This isn’t just any chicken – our peruvian chicken recipe with Aji Amarillo Brush brings vibrant, tangy, and subtly spicy flavors to your dinner table, transforming ordinary weeknights into something special. Perfect for busy parents, health-minded cooks, and anyone craving a delicious, easy meal, this peruvian chicken recipe is a beloved family favorite known for its incredible taste and simplicity, making it ideal for quick meals and family dinners.

What You’ll Need for Peruvian Chicken with Aji Amarillo Brush

• Whole Chicken (3-4 lbs / 1.4-1.8 kg), cut into pieces, or 6-8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – for juicy flavor. (Or chicken leg quarters if that’s what’s on sale.)
• Aji Amarillo Paste (2-3 tbsp / 30-45g) – Key for authentic peruvian chicken recipe flavor, providing its signature tangy, fruity heat. Opt for good quality jarred paste or fresh if available.
• Lime Juice (¼ cup / 60ml) – Brightens the marinade and tenderizes the chicken. (Fresh squeezed is always best, but bottled works in a pinch.)
• Garlic (4-5 cloves, minced) – Essential aromatic base for depth.
• Cumin (1 tsp / 2g) – Earthy warmth that complements the Aji Amarillo.
• Paprika (1 tsp / 2g) – Mild sweetness and beautiful color.
• Dried Oregano (1 tsp / 2g) – Herbaceous depth, a classic pairing with chicken.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp / 30ml) – Helps crisp the skin and distribute flavors, a healthy fat choice.
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Seasoning foundation for all ingredients.
• Premium Upgrades: Free-range organic chicken, fresh Aji Amarillo peppers (blended), avocado oil for a healthier fat.
• Budget-Friendly Swaps: Chicken leg quarters instead of a whole chicken, common vegetable oil if olive oil is pricey.
• Seasonal/Freshness: Choose fresh, plump chicken. If using fresh Aji Amarillo, ensure vibrant yellow color and firm texture for the best peruvian chicken recipe.

Step-by-Step Method Made Simple

1. Prep the Chicken (10 mins): Pat chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels – this helps achieve crispy skin. Trim any excess skin or fat if desired for a leaner cut. My family prefers bone-in thighs cooked on a regular sheet pan for easy cleanup.

2. Make the Aji Amarillo Brush (5 mins): In a medium bowl, combine the Aji Amarillo paste, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix vigorously until it forms a smooth, vibrant yellow paste – this is your flavorful “brush” for the peruvian chicken recipe.

3. Marinate for Flavor (30 mins – 4 hours, or overnight for best results): Generously coat the chicken pieces with the Aji Amarillo brush, ensuring every part is covered. Place the chicken in a sealed bag or covered dish and refrigerate. For quick easy dinner ideas, even 30 minutes makes a noticeable difference, but for truly deep flavors, I often let it marinate all day while I’m at work!

4. Bake to Perfection (45-60 mins): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken on a 9×13 inch baking dish or a large sheet pan, skin-side up, ensuring pieces aren’t overcrowded for optimal crisping. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer and the skin is deeply golden brown and crispy. If needed, flip chicken halfway through for even cooking. If your chicken skin isn’t browning, a quick blast under the broiler for 2-3 minutes (watch carefully!) can help.

   • Look/Feel Cues: The skin should be deeply golden and crackly, indicating perfect doneness; the meat will be tender when pierced, and juices will run clear.
   • Faster Method: For a quicker healthy meal prep, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; baking time will reduce to 25-35 minutes, keeping an eye on internal temperature.
   • Healthier Twist: For a lighter option, remove the skin before baking, or grill the chicken instead of baking for a fantastic outdoor flavor.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Dry Chicken: Ensure you don’t overcook! Always use a meat thermometer to pull chicken at 165°F (74°C). Marinating for several hours also significantly helps keep it juicy.
     • Weak Flavor: Don’t skimp on marinating time, especially for this peruvian chicken recipe with Aji Amarillo Brush. Ensure your Aji Amarillo paste is fresh and potent; a dull color can mean dull flavor.

Perfect Occasions and Serving Inspiration

This easy peruvian chicken recipe is incredibly versatile for various meals. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, efficient meal prep, and even special family gatherings.

• When to Serve: Ideal for busy weeknights, preparing healthy school lunchbox leftovers, or a tasty alternative to your usual roast chicken.
• Serving Pairings: Classic options include fluffy white rice, a crisp green salad, or roasted root vegetables. Consider adding a creamy Aji Verde sauce or a fresh lime-cilantro salsa for extra zest.
• Storage and Reheating: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge, or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave until warm. This makes for excellent easy meal prep for busy families throughout the week.

Nutrition & Everyday Wellness Benefits

Our peruvian chicken recipe offers a delicious path to a balanced and healthy meal with many inherent advantages.

• High-Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, supporting muscle health and keeping you satisfied longer.
• Weight-Friendly: When using skinless chicken and serving with vegetables, it becomes a healthy alternative to fried dishes.
• Heart-Healthy: Opting for olive oil and lean chicken contributes positively to cardiovascular well-being.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those with sensitivities. It’s perfect for healthy recipes for dinner.

Why This Recipe Works for You

This peruvian chicken recipe with Aji Amarillo Brush is more than just tasty; it seamlessly integrates into your demanding schedule and healthy lifestyle goals.

• Saves Time: The active cooking time is minimal, with much of the work being hands-off marinating and oven baking.
• Budget-Friendly: It uses common, affordable ingredients and chicken, which is often an economical protein choice for family meals.
• Family-Approved: The unique, savory flavor of this dish appeals to both kids and adults without being overly spicy.
• Diet Fit: Easily adaptable for diverse dietary requirements, from gluten-free needs to general healthy eating plans.

Smart Upgrades and Adjustments

Elevate your peruvian chicken recipe with these practical tips for flavor and dietary needs.

• Technique Tips: Finish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes for extra crispy skin (watch closely!). Basting during the last 15 minutes adds flavor.
• Flavor Variations: Fresh cilantro brightens the Aji Amarillo brush. A dash of soy sauce adds umami. Grill over charcoal for smoky depth.
• Diet Adaptations:
• Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice or a large green salad.
• Vegan-Friendly: Adapt the Aji Amarillo brush for tofu, tempeh, or vegetables like portobello mushrooms.
• Kid-Friendly: Use less Aji Amarillo paste or balance with more lime. I’ve found a squeeze of orange juice also mellows the heat for my little ones.

Reader Q&A

Can I prepare this Peruvian chicken recipe ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! Marinating the chicken in the Aji Amarillo brush for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator will greatly enhance its flavor and tenderness. This is a fantastic strategy for weeknight convenience.

Is Peruvian chicken with Aji Amarillo Brush good for meal prep?

It’s excellent for meal prep. I often cook a larger batch on Sundays and portion it out with my favorite sides. It reheats beautifully throughout the week, offering healthy, flavorful meals without extra effort.

What’s the best way to store leftover Peruvian chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Are there healthier substitutes for this recipe?

To lighten the dish further, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also reduce the amount of olive oil in the marinade or swap it for avocado oil, which offers a healthier fat profile.

How spicy is Aji Amarillo?

Aji Amarillo peppers are generally mild to medium in heat, delivering a vibrant, fruity flavor rather than an overwhelming spice. You can easily adjust the quantity of paste to suit your family’s heat preference.

Can I grill this Peruvian chicken instead of baking?

Yes, grilling is a fantastic option that adds a smoky char. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, until fully cooked and nicely charred.

What sides go well with Peruvian chicken?

Classic Peruvian pairings include ‘arroz blanco’ (white rice) and a simple green salad. Roasted sweet potatoes or fried plantains also complement the savory, tangy flavors wonderfully. I sometimes serve it with a quick corn salad too!

Conclusion

This easy peruvian chicken recipe makes every family meal a delicious success. Save this flavorful recipe for your next quick meal and elevate your family dinners.

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