Peruvian Style Aji Amarillo Roast Chicken

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
• 1/4 cup aji amarillo paste
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. 2 In a bowl, whisk together aji amarillo paste, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. 3 Rinse the chicken inside and out, pat dry with paper towels, and season generously with salt and pepper.
4. 4 Rub the aji amarillo mixture all over the chicken, under the skin if possible.
5. 5 Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan.
6. 6 Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the juices run clear.
7. 7 Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat the chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
8. 8 After removing the chicken, place it on a platter and tent with foil.
9. 9 Add chopped cilantro and parsley to the saucepan with the stock and simmer for 5 minutes.
10. 10 Strain the sauce and drizzle over the chicken before serving.

Equipment

• Roasting pan
• Oven
• Whisk
• Saucepan

Variations

• For a spicier kick, add diced habanero peppers to the marinade.
• Substitute chicken with bone-in, skin-on thighs for a quicker cook time.

Substitutions

• If aji amarillo paste is unavailable, use a mix of yellow bell pepper and a spicy chili paste.

Pairings

• Aji de Gallina sauce
• Peruvian corn on the cob (choclo)

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the aji mixture for at least 4 hours or overnight in the fridge.
• If aji amarillo paste is unavailable, substitute with a mix of yellow bell pepper and a spicy chili paste, though the authentic flavor will differ.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh avocado salad.
• Pair with Peruvian-style rice and beans.

FAQ