This easy Peruvian chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices then roasted to perfection until the skin is crispy and golden and the chicken is juicy and tender. It is so hard not to go back for seconds! If you love an easy sheet pan dinner try this Cherry Jalapeño Chicken or this Apricot Chicken.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
I love how easy this recipe is and the result is a powerhouse of flavor! You can make a green sauce for dipping but honestly the chicken is so juicy and flavorful you can enjoy it on its own. The ease of preparing Peruvian chicken adds to its appeal.
Ingredients You Will Need

Chicken thighs: always come out juicy and tender from the extra fat that comes from the thighs. I love Grass Roots Coop for all of my meats. You can use PENNYP to save. For an easy Peruvian chicken, thighs are perfect.
Extra virgin olive oil: is the least processed form of olive oil. Due to this, it retains its natural antioxidants and vitamins. I love Garcia De La Cruz olive oils.
Smoked paprika: introduces a distinct smoky flavor that complements the other spices, adding depth and a unique taste.
Ground cumin: is known for its warm and earthy flavor that is derived from the dried seeds of the Cuminum Cyminum plant.
Chili powder: is a spice blend of dried chili peppers and other spices like cumin, garlic powder and oregano.
Dried oregano: is an intensely flavored herb, ground oregano brings a peppery bite and a slightly sweet, earthy aroma to the dish.
Salt and black pepper: salt enhances the overall flavor of the dish and ground black pepper adds a gentle heat.
Lime: are a small, green citrus fruit known for its sour taste and high vitamin C content, perfect for creating easy Peruvian chicken with a vibrant twist.
Instructions


Recipe Tips and Tricks
Add a couple of extra chicken: pieces to the pan so you are sure to have leftovers. It's so delicious sliced over a salad, making Peruvian chicken easily enjoyable even in salads.
Massage the chicken: extra well so the spice really gets under and over the skin. It adds a depth of flavor you don’t want to miss out on!
Recipe Variations
Jalapeño: minced up can be added to the marinade if you would like to spice it up, enhancing this easy Peruvian dish with extra heat.
Aji Verde: can be made if you want a dipping sauce. It typically consists of fresh cilantro, Jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, mayonnaise, cumin, oregano and salt to complement the Peruvian chicken.
Storage Tips
You can store this Peruvian chicken easily in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight glass container.
FAQs About Peruvian Chicken
What does Peruvian chicken taste like?
It has a wonderful balance of savory, slightly sweet, and tangy notes with prominent flavors of lime, garlic and various spices, making it a standout dish among easy Peruvian recipes.
What pairs well with Peruvian chicken?
Common sides include rice, roasted potatoes, green sauce, or a simple avocado and cucumber salad. These complement the easy flavors of Peruvian chicken well.
What makes Peruvian chicken so good?
It's the combination of juicy meat, bold seasoning and crispy skin that makes this easy dish irresistible.
Easy Peruvian Chicken
Ingredients
- 6 pieces Chicken thighs bone and skin on
- 3 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Ground cumin
- 2 teaspoon Chili powder
- 2 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 whole Lime juiced
Instructions
- Place chicken in a large bowl or zip lock bag.
- Add all ingredients and massage well allowing the spice to get under the skin as well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to overnight.
- Preheat oven to 400˚ and line a rimmed baking pan with parchment paper.
- Place chicken pieces skin side up on pan not touching.
- Roast for 50 or till skin is extra crispy and the chicken reaches 165˚ at the thickest part.
- Garnish with extra limes and cilantro if desired.
- Enjoy!
Vevster says
Delish! Great for meal prep. To die for..... thanks Penny!
Penny says
Isn't it so flavorful Vev? Love all the spices in this dish!
XOXO, Penny
Kat says
Penny...I made this a few days ago on the BBQ. I shared it with 2 of my neighbors and they both raved over it, claiming the flavor was fantastic, and I agree 100%. I couldn't eat it fast enough. I took more chicken out today as I'll be making more.