Pollo a la Brasa (Peruvian Roasted Chicken)

Pollo a la Brasa (Peruvian Roasted Chicken)

A whole chicken marinated in smoky cumin, garlic, and aji amarillo paste, then oven-roasted until the skin is mahogany-crisp and the meat is incredibly juicy. A weekend centrepiece the whole family devours.

⏱ 90 minServes 4Peruvian

Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg whole chicken, patted dry
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp aji amarillo paste
  • 2 tbsp gluten-free soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1½ tsp salt
  • 1 lime, halved
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, for serving

Directions

  1. 1Whisk together garlic, aji amarillo paste, tamari, vinegar, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, pepper, and salt into a paste.
  2. 2Rub the marinade all over the chicken, including under the skin over the breast; stuff the cavity with squeezed lime halves.
  3. 3Marinate the chicken uncovered in the fridge at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
  4. 4Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F); set chicken breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
  5. 5Roast 20 minutes until the skin starts to colour, then reduce heat to 190°C (375°F).
  6. 6Continue roasting 45–50 minutes until a thermometer inserted into the thigh reads 74°C (165°F) and skin is deep golden brown.
  7. 7Rest the chicken uncovered 10 minutes before carving.
  8. 8Serve with fresh cilantro, roasted potatoes, and green aji sauce (huacatay or blended jalapeño-mayo).

💡 Aji amarillo paste is found at Latin grocery stores or online; substitute 1 tbsp of any mild yellow hot sauce mixed with 1 tsp turmeric for colour and a similar fruity heat.

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