Ingredients:

For the Roast Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin

• 2 teaspoons paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Juice of 2 limes

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Aji Verde Sauce:

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, tightly packed

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, tightly packed

• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed (adjust for spice preference)

• 2 cloves garlic

• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

For the Roast Chicken:

1.     Prepare the Marinade:

• In a bowl, combine minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, lime juice, and vegetable oil.

2.     Marinate the Chicken:

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and rub the marinade all over, including under the skin.

• Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a covered dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

3.     Roast the Chicken:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Place the marinated chicken on a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. This will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your oven.

4.     Rest and Serve:

• Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before carving.

For the Aji Verde Sauce:

1.     Prepare the Ingredients:

• In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, cilantro, parsley, jalapeño pepper, garlic, green onions, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.

2.     Blend Until Smooth:

• Blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth, vibrant green sauce.

3.     Adjust Seasoning:

• Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.

4.     Chill Before Serving:

• Refrigerate the Aji Verde Sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

To Serve:

Carve the Peruvian-style roast chicken and serve it with a generous drizzle of the Aji Verde Sauce. Accompany it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, Peruvian-style potatoes, or a simple green salad. The flavorful, herb-infused roast chicken combined with the zesty and spicy Aji Verde Sauce creates a memorable and award-worthy dish. Enjoy!