Juicy Peruvian Roast Chicken

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Juicy Peruvian Roast Chicken is a dinner that will transport you straight to Lima with its smoky, citrusy, and spicy flavors. This dish is famous for its perfectly crisp skin and incredibly tender, juicy meat thanks to a flavorful marinade of garlic, lime, cumin, and Peruvian spices. The irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen as it roasts makes it hard to wait until it hits the table.

Whether you’re making this for a special gathering or an easy weeknight dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser that impresses with its bold taste yet simple preparation. Pair it with a creamy green sauce and some roasted potatoes for a truly authentic experience. This is one of those dishes that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Juicy Peruvian Roast Chicken

You’ll fall in love with how easy it is to achieve such complex flavor with minimal effort. The marinade does all the heavy lifting, infusing the chicken overnight with a perfect balance of tang, heat, and smokiness. Roasting it at high heat ensures that gorgeous golden skin while keeping the meat moist and flavorful. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with many different sides, making it a great addition to your dinner rotation.

What’s the Secret to Getting That Crispy Skin?

The secret to crispy skin on Peruvian roast chicken is twofold: drying the skin before roasting and cooking at high heat. Patting the chicken dry removes extra moisture that would otherwise steam the skin, while roasting at a hot temperature crisps it up beautifully. Don’t skip the resting period after roasting, which helps redistribute the juices and keeps the meat succulent while maintaining that delightful crunch.

Ingredients for the Juicy Peruvian Roast Chicken

Garlic: Essential for that deep, savory base flavor that permeates every bite.

Lime juice: Adds brightness and acidity to tenderize the chicken and balance the spices.

Olive oil: Helps coat the chicken evenly, ensuring a moist and juicy roast.

Cumin: Brings a warm, earthy note that’s characteristic of Peruvian cuisine.

Smoked paprika: Adds mild heat and smoky depth to enhance the roast.

Soy sauce: Gives a savory, umami kick and helps the skin develop color.

Whole chicken: The star of the dish, ready to absorb all those bold flavors and roast to perfection.

How To Make the Juicy Peruvian Roast Chicken

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and soy sauce. Mix until smooth and fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place it on a cutting board or in a roasting pan. Gently loosen the skin over the breasts and legs.

Step 3: Marinate

Rub the marinade all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to let the flavors soak in.

Step 4: Roast

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan and roast for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is golden and crisp.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before carving. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy the juicy, flavorful result.

Serving and Storing Juicy Peruvian Roast Chicken

This Juicy Peruvian Roast Chicken serves about 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or small gathering. Serve it warm and freshly carved, drizzled with its own flavorful juices. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also shred leftover chicken for salads, sandwiches, or wraps the next day. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through to retain its juiciness.

What to Serve With Juicy Peruvian Roast Chicken?

Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce)

This creamy, spicy sauce made with cilantro and jalapeños is the perfect dip for your chicken.

Roasted Potatoes

Crispy and golden, roasted potatoes are a classic side to soak up the savory juices.

Simple Green Salad

A light and refreshing salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich flavors.

Steamed Rice

Fluffy white rice or even cilantro lime rice pairs beautifully with the smoky spices.

Fried Plantains

Sweet and caramelized, fried plantains add a unique touch to the meal.

Grilled Vegetables

Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and onions bring even more depth and color to your plate.

Peruvian Corn on the Cob

Large-kernel corn with a sprinkle of cheese and lime adds an authentic flair to your table.

Want More Chicken Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Juicy Peruvian Roast Chicken, you’ll probably love these other chicken recipes packed with flavor:

• Easy Crock Pot Orange Chicken for a sweet and tangy slow-cooked dinner.
• One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for a comforting and quick weeknight meal.
• Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce if you want a creamy and satisfying handheld option.
• Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders for a healthier take on a classic favorite.
• Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a wholesome and flavorful dinner bowl.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use a spatchcocked chicken or leave it whole? Did you try adding a little extra spice?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

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