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Peruvian Grilled Chicken: Smoky, Juicy, and Packed with Flavor

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This Peruvian Grilled Chicken (Pollo a la Brasa) is smoky, juicy, and bursting with bold, zesty flavor from a garlicky, spiced marinade. Perfect for grilling season or weeknight dinners, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with vibrant sauces and fresh sides.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or preferred cuts)

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos)

  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar or lime juice

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 5 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

  • Optional: ½ teaspoon cayenne or Aji Amarillo paste for heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, vinegar or lime juice, mustard, garlic, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add optional heat if using.

  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add chicken to the marinade, coating well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

  3. Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (around 400°F). For charcoal grills, bank coals to one side for indirect heat.

  4. Grill Chicken: Place chicken skin-side down on direct heat for 4–5 minutes to sear. Move to indirect heat and cook with lid closed for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Flip halfway through.

  5. Rest and Serve: Remove chicken from grill, let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Serve with Aji Verde, potatoes, or salad.

Notes

  • Boneless chicken can be used—just reduce cooking time.

  • No grill? Bake at 425°F for 30–35 minutes and broil for crispy skin.

  • Marinating overnight gives the deepest flavor.

  • Aji Amarillo paste is traditional but optional—use cayenne if needed.

 

  • Leftovers are amazing in wraps or over rice bowls.

Nutrition

Keywords: Peruvian grilled chicken, pollo a la brasa, grilled chicken thighs, Peruvian chicken recipe, Latin chicken recipe, smoky grilled chicken, gluten-free chicken, summer grilling

Find it online: https://recipedune.com/peruvian-grilled-chicken-smoky-juicy-and-packed-with-flavor/