Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

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Introduction

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a dish that transports you to the colorful, bustling streets of Peru with every bite. The tender, spiced chicken, paired with perfectly cooked rice, already creates a delicious harmony of flavors. But it’s the vibrant green sauce that truly takes this dish to a whole new level. Made with fresh cilantro, spicy jalapeños, and a zesty kick of lime, this sauce brings a burst of brightness and heat that perfectly complements the richness of the chicken and rice. It’s a flavor-packed experience that’s both comforting and exciting at the same time.

The first time I made Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, I was instantly hooked. The combination of the chicken, marinated with bold spices, and the creamy, zesty green sauce was so satisfying. As the chicken sizzled in the pan, I couldn’t help but smile at the enticing aroma that filled the kitchen. When the green sauce hit the plate, the contrast of flavors—herbaceous, spicy, and tangy—took the dish from delicious to unforgettable.

What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to make, yet how impressive it tastes. It’s the perfect recipe for a weeknight meal when you want something flavorful but not complicated. Plus, the green sauce is incredibly versatile; you can drizzle it over just about anything for an added burst of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce will impress and leave everyone craving more.

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Family gatherings
  • Special celebrations
  • Spicy food lovers
  • Comfort food with a twist

Why You’ll Love This Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce Recipe

Here’s why Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce will quickly become a favorite in your household:

  • Zesty Green Sauce: The fresh green sauce made from cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice adds a bold, tangy kick to the chicken and rice, making every bite exciting.
  • Tender, Flavorful Chicken: The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices, which makes it incredibly juicy and flavorful.
  • A One-Pan Meal: The rice is cooked alongside the chicken, absorbing all the delicious juices and spices, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Healthy and Balanced: This dish is a great way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal while still keeping things light and healthy.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for an easy-to-reheat meal during the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 40g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

For this delicious Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, you will need:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar

Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt to taste

Green Sauce:

  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1-2 jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Salt to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and an unmistakable flavor that defines this dish.
  • Jalapeños: These peppers bring just the right amount of heat to the green sauce without overwhelming the flavor.
  • Turmeric & Cumin: These earthy spices are staples in Peruvian cooking and help infuse the chicken and rice with rich, aromatic flavors.
  • Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for this dish, as they stay juicy and tender while absorbing all the spices.
  • Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth in the rice ensures it’s flavorful and perfectly seasoned.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce:

Marinate the Chicken:

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, turmeric, lime juice, chopped cilantro, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Rub the marinade generously over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have more time.

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Cook the Rice:

  1. Prepare the Rice: In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and cumin. Stir for a minute to toast the cumin.
  2. Cook the Rice: Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the oil and spices. Pour in the chicken broth and add salt to taste. Bring it to a simmer, then cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Make the Green Sauce:

  1. Blend the Green Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, olive oil, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Assemble the Dish:

  1. Combine the Chicken and Rice: Once the rice is cooked, add the chicken back to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Spoon some of the green sauce over the top of the chicken and rice, then cover and cook for another 5 minutes to warm everything through.
  2. Serve: Serve the dish warm, with extra green sauce on the side for drizzling.

How to Serve Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

  • With a Side of Salad: Pair it with a light side salad featuring fresh greens and a citrus dressing for a refreshing contrast.
  • On its Own: It’s hearty enough to serve as a stand-alone dish, perfect for a filling dinner.
  • With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers for a complete meal.
  • As a Family-Style Meal: Serve the chicken, rice, and green sauce in a large platter for family-style dining where everyone can help themselves.
  • Garnished with Lime Wedges: Add a squeeze of fresh lime on top before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Additional Tips for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Here are some tips to make your Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce even better:

  • Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight.
  • Adjust the Spice: If you prefer less heat in the green sauce, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or reduce the amount used.
  • Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts: If you prefer chicken breasts over thighs, use bone-in breasts to keep them juicy during cooking.
  • Make Extra Green Sauce: If you love the green sauce, make extra and store it in the fridge for up to a week. It’s great as a dipping sauce or on other dishes.
  • Substitute Quinoa for Rice: For a gluten-free option, swap out the rice for quinoa for a more protein-packed base.

Recipe Variations for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Here are 10 variations you can try for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce:

  • Spicy Green Sauce: Add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the green sauce for an extra spicy kick.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with roasted vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or eggplant for a vegetarian twist.
  • Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the green sauce for an added citrusy punch.
  • Grilled Chicken: Grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it for a smoky flavor.
  • Add Avocado: Serve with slices of ripe avocado on top for a creamy, cool contrast to the spicy green sauce.
  • Smoked Paprika: Swap the regular paprika with smoked paprika to give the chicken an added depth of flavor.
  • Coconut Rice: Use coconut milk instead of chicken broth to cook the rice for a rich, tropical twist.
  • Add Corn: Top the rice with fresh or roasted corn kernels for added sweetness and texture.
  • Lime Rice: Add more lime juice and zest to the rice for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
  • Pineapple Salsa: Serve the chicken and rice with a side of fresh pineapple salsa to add a sweet, fruity element.

Freezing and Storage for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the rice and chicken separately. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
  • Storage: Leftover Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Special Equipment for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce easier:

  • Blender or Food Processor: To make the smooth and flavorful green sauce.
  • Large Oven-Safe Skillet: Ideal for cooking both the chicken and rice in one pan.
  • Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection and safe to eat.
  • Zester or Grater: For adding fresh lime zest to the green sauce or rice.
  • Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken and handling the hot pieces with ease.

FAQ Section for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

  1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
    Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Just reduce the cooking time slightly.
  2. Can I make the green sauce ahead of time?
    Yes, the green sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
  3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
    Yes, brown rice can be substituted, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
  4. Can I make this dish spicier?
    Absolutely! Add more jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the green sauce to ramp up the heat.
  5. How can I make this dish more flavorful?
    Try marinating the chicken overnight for deeper flavor, or add more spices to the rice for an enhanced taste.
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Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

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Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the bold, fresh flavors of Peru right to your kitchen. The combination of tender, spiced chicken paired with a fragrant rice cooked to perfection is already a winner, but the green sauce, made from fresh herbs, jalapeños, and tangy lime, elevates this dish to another level. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special gatherings, or a flavorful family meal, this dish brings a delightful taste of Peru to your plate. Its rich, zesty flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: chicken

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar

For the Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt to taste

For the Green Sauce:

  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 12 jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, turmeric, lime juice, chopped cilantro, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Rub the marinade generously over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have more time.

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Cook the Rice:

  1. Prepare the Rice: In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and cumin. Stir for a minute to toast the cumin.
  2. Cook the Rice: Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the oil and spices. Pour in the chicken broth and add salt to taste. Bring it to a simmer, then cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Make the Green Sauce:

  1. Blend the Green Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, olive oil, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Assemble the Dish:

  1. Combine the Chicken and Rice: Once the rice is cooked, add the chicken back to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Spoon some of the green sauce over the top of the chicken and rice, then cover and cook for another 5 minutes to warm everything through.
  2. Serve: Serve the dish warm, with extra green sauce on the side for drizzling.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 400-450 kcal
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 40g

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Conclusion

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a delicious, vibrant dish that combines tender, spiced chicken with fragrant rice and a zesty green sauce. With its bold flavors and easy-to-make components, it’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine or impress guests with something new, this dish is a surefire winner. Serve it with your favorite sides, add a few extra toppings, and enjoy the fresh, bright flavors of Peru in the comfort of your home.

I’d love to see how you bring this dish to life! Tag me on Instagram with your creations—I can’t wait to see your unique twist. Be sure to leave a comment and share what you loved about it. Happy cooking!

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