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Peruvian Charcoal Chicken

Deliciously smoky and juicy Peruvian chicken marinated with garlic, vinegar, and spices, perfect for summer grilling.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 6 hours
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 7 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Peruvian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 6 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Vinegar White vinegar is traditionally used.
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin Ground cumin enhances the marinade.
  • 2 teaspoons Paprika Adds color and a mild flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Peruvian pepper Use yellow aji if available.
  • 1 unit Lime Squeeze fresh lime for a zesty touch.
For the Chicken
  • 1 whole Whole chicken (about 4 lbs) Use a room-temperature chicken for best results.
For Accompaniments
  • 4 cups Crispy yuca fries Perfect for dipping and crunch.
  • 1 cup Green aji sauce Incredible for dipping.
  • 2 cups Finely sliced cabbage and carrots Classic slaw with lime dressing.
  • 2 cups Arroz chaufa A flavorful Peruvian fried rice.
  • 1 cup Sweet plantains A lovely sweet side.

Method
 

Preparation and Marinating
  1. In a bowl, combine garlic, vinegar, cumin, paprika, Peruvian pepper, and lime juice to create the marinade.
  2. Slather the marinade all over the chicken, ensuring it gets into all the crevices.
  3. Cover the chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
Grilling
  1. Preheat your charcoal grill to a medium heat. If using, set up a rotisserie.
  2. Place the chicken on the grill, skin side up, and grill for approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
  3. Baste the chicken occasionally with leftover marinade to enhance flavor.
  4. The chicken is done when the juices run clear, and the skin is deeply browned.
Serving
  1. Let the chicken rest for at least 10 minutes before carving to retain juices.
  2. Serve with crispy yuca fries, green aji sauce, classic slaw, arroz chaufa, and sweet plantains.

Notes

For best results, ensure you are using a room-temperature chicken before grilling. A rotisserie attachment can enhance cooking by providing even heat distribution.