Name: The Ultimate Peruvian Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 tsp cumin powder; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp chili powder (for sauce); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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The enticing aroma of grilled chicken wafts through the air, beckoning you to gather around the grill. With a splash of citrusy marinade and a hint of smokiness, The Ultimate Peruvian Grilled Chicken is a flavor explosion that promises to bring joy to your taste buds.

It’s not just any chicken; it’s a dish that transports you straight to a lively Peruvian fiesta, where the vibrant colors and lively music dance around you. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds and thirds. For more inspiration, check out this perfect dinner recipes recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This ultimate Peruvian grilled chicken is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive for gatherings
The marinade brings an explosion of flavors that everyone raves about
The beautiful golden-brown color makes it visually appealing and perfect for serving
Adaptable to various cooking methods, from grilling to baking, it fits seamlessly into any meal plan

You know when your friends taste something amazing and stare at you in awe? That was me last summer after serving this dish at my backyard barbecue. Everyone kept asking for my “secret” recipe!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious lunch ideas recipe.

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.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and acidity that enhances all the flavors.
Cumin Powder: This warm spice gives your chicken an earthy depth that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
Paprika: Use smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor, giving your chicken a delightful color and aroma.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil helps create a luscious marinade that keeps the chicken juicy.
Salt & Pepper: A must-have seasoning combo that elevates every ingredient in the dish.

For the Sauce:

Chili Powder: Adds just the right kick without overwhelming the dish, balancing perfectly with the other spices.
Fresh Cilantro: Chopped finely for garnish; it adds freshness and a pop of color to your grilled masterpiece.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare yourself for culinary magic; it’s time to get grilling!

Marinate Your Chicken: In a large bowl, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin powder, paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. Toss in your chicken breasts until they are generously coated in this flavorful mixture.

Let It Soak Up The Flavors: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into a ziplock bag. Allow it to marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight if you’re feeling adventurous. The longer it sits, the more flavors develop.

Preheat Your Grill: While waiting for those flavors to meld beautifully together, fire up your grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat (approximately 375°F). You want those grill marks as much as you want flavor!

Sear That Chicken!: Remove your chicken from the marinade (don’t forget to discard any leftover marinade). Place each piece on the hot grill grates. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on one side until they develop gorgeous char marks.

Flip & Finish Cooking: Turn over each breast carefully using tongs. Grill for an additional 6-7 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures they’re juicy and safe to eat.

Add Garnish & Serve!: Once done grilling, remove from heat and let rest briefly before slicing. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over top before serving – because who doesn’t love some green goodness?

Now you’ve mastered The Ultimate Peruvian Grilled Chicken! Enjoy every bite of this flavorful delight while basking in compliments from family and friends!

You Must Know

The Ultimate Peruvian Grilled Chicken will leave your taste buds dancing
Marinating overnight enhances the flavors, making each bite a fiesta of spices
This dish is perfect for gatherings, and its vibrant colors are sure to impress your guests

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least four hours, then grill over medium-high heat for juicy perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap lime juice with orange juice or add herbs like cilantro for a flavor twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To create a flavorful marinade, always use fresh ingredients—trust me, dried herbs won’t cut it!
Letting the chicken rest before grilling ensures juiciness, and don’t forget to preheat your grill for those beautiful char marks

I remember the first time I made The Ultimate Peruvian Grilled Chicken; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! Their compliments made me feel like a culinary rock star that night!

FAQ

What makes The Ultimate Peruvian Grilled Chicken special?

The marinade blends traditional spices, creating a unique and flavorful experience.

Can I use boneless chicken instead?

Yes, boneless chicken works well but adjust cooking time accordingly.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level is moderate; feel free to adjust according to your preference.