Get ready to transform your kitchen into a flavor paradise with this mouthwatering Peruvian Chicken recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Peru! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with a zesty garlic-lime marinade that will make your dinner guests wonder if you've secretly trained with a professional chef. This isn't just another chicken recipe - it's a culinary adventure that combines simplicity with extraordinary flavor, guaranteed to become your new go-to meal that impresses every single time.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Peruvian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 1/4 cup of lime juice, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Next, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the marinade mixture. Continue to whisk until the oil is fully incorporated into the marinade. This will help to create a smooth and flavorful mixture.
- Take the 4 chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. For best results, let it marinate for up to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken thoroughly.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the chicken is marinating. This ensures that the oven is hot and ready for cooking once the chicken is done marinating.
- After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Discard the marinade and place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. You can drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top if desired for added flavor.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful.
- After resting, slice the chicken and serve it warm. This Peruvian chicken pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Enjoy your delicious Peruvian Chicken with Garlic Lime Marinade!
Tips
- Marination is Key: Don't rush the marinating process. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade (up to 4 hours), the more intense and deep the flavors will become.
- Temperature Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Enhance the Flavor: For extra caramelization, you can finish the chicken under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this chicken with cilantro-lime rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad to complete your Peruvian-inspired meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 105mg
