Benefits:
Chicken provides high-quality protein and skin-repairing amino acids. The vibrant green aji sauce includes cilantro and lime to reduce inflammation and brighten the skin, while olive oil helps maintain hydration. Quinoa delivers zinc, selenium, and fiber to support a healthy gut-skin connection.
Skin Concern: Inflammation, dullness, breakouts
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Serves: 2
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
-
2 bone-in chicken thighs or breasts
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tbsp lime juice
-
1 tsp ground cumin
-
1 tsp smoked paprika
-
1 garlic clove, minced
-
Sea salt and black pepper to taste
For the Aji Verde (Green Sauce):
-
1/2 cup fresh cilantro (with stems)
-
1/2 small jalapeño, seeds removed (optional for heat)
-
1 garlic clove
-
1 tbsp lime juice
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
2 tbsp Greek yogurt or avocado
-
Sea salt to taste
For the Quinoa:
-
1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
-
1 cup water or broth
-
Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Mix olive oil, lime juice, cumin, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper into a paste.
- Rub all over the chicken and let marinate for 10 minutes if time allows.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet and roast for 30–35 minutes until skin is golden and juices run clear.
- Meanwhile, blend all green sauce ingredients in a blender until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt and spice to taste.
- In a saucepan, combine quinoa, water or broth, and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Serve chicken over quinoa with a generous drizzle of green sauce and extra lime wedges on the side.
Shopping Tips:
-
Chicken: Choose pasture-raised or organic cuts for better skin-supportive nutrients.
-
Cilantro: Fresh, vibrant bunches with crisp stems yield the brightest flavor and antioxidants.
-
Quinoa: Tri-color quinoa adds visual appeal and more diverse nutrients.
Cooking Tips:
-
Make extra green sauce. It’s amazing on grilled veggies or as a salad dressing.
-
Add steamed spinach or roasted peppers on the side for more skin-brightening compounds.
-
Swap Greek yogurt in the sauce for avocado to make it dairy-free.
This bold, tangy, herb-packed dish brings the glow and the flavor. Perfect for an anti-inflammatory reset meal that feeds your skin and your senses.
