Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the warmth of home and the excitement of flavor, you’ve found it with Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it combines juicy, marinated chicken with vibrant rice and an irresistible green sauce. Whether you’re hosting family for dinner or just need a quick meal after a long day, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and the bold flavors that come together beautifully. You can easily prepare it for busy weeknights or impress your guests during gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavor Packed: The marinated chicken and creamy green sauce blend together for an explosion of taste!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the juicy chicken and colorful rice, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Versatile: Perfect for meal prep or serving fresh—this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.
• Healthy Ingredients: Wholesome components mean you can enjoy this dish guilt-free!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Preparing this Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is easy with these simple, wholesome ingredients. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store!

For the Marinade

• 1.5-2 pounds chicken (thighs, breasts, or any cut)
• 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice or white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons oil of choice
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Green Sauce

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 whole jalapeño chiles (roughly chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Rice

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 tablespoon butter/oil
• 1/4 cup onion (diced)
• 2-3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon EACH cumin, onion powder, salt, pepper
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup frozen peas

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment and make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken for a delightful vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini when cooking the rice for extra nutrients and color.
• Change up the grains: Use quinoa or brown rice if you prefer whole grains; they pair well with the flavors of this dish.
• Adjust the heat: If you’re not keen on spice, use only half a jalapeño or omit it altogether for a milder sauce.

How to Make Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. This step enhances the chicken’s flavor and tenderness; let it soak up those spices! Reserve about ¼ of the mixture before adding in your chicken. Make sure every piece is well-coated and then refrigerate it for at least one hour—or overnight if you can wait!

Step 2: Cook Your Chicken

When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, preheat your grill to medium-high or set your oven to 450ºF. Cooking methods are flexible here! Grilling gives that lovely smoky flavor while baking keeps everything nice and juicy. Either way, you’ll brush on that reserved marinade halfway through cooking for added taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

To make fluffy rice that’s bursting with flavor, rinse your jasmine rice until the water runs clear—a crucial step! Soaking helps achieve perfect texture. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in butter until soft; their sweetness will elevate your rice. Stir in your spices before adding in chicken stock and bringing everything to a boil.

Step 4: Make Your Green Sauce

While everything cooks away happily, it’s time to whip up that creamy green sauce! Simply toss all those vibrant ingredients into a blender. Pulse until creamy—this sauce adds brightness to each bite of chicken and rice!

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Once everything is cooked through and ready to go, serve by dividing that fragrant rice onto plates. Top each portion generously with grilled chicken and drizzle over that luscious green sauce. Enjoy every mouthful—you’ve earned it!

This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is more than just dinner; it’s a celebration of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Cooking this delightful dish is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time!

• Marinate Longer for Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate overnight intensifies the flavors, making each bite burst with deliciousness. This extra time allows the spices and herbs to penetrate the meat deeply.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165ºF, ensuring it’s juicy and safe to eat without being dry.
• Rinse Your Rice: Washing rice until the water runs clear removes excess starch, which helps achieve fluffy grains instead of sticky clumps. This little step makes a big difference in texture!
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder green sauce, feel free to remove the seeds from the jalapeños before blending. This allows you to control the spiciness while still enjoying that vibrant flavor.
• Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to add other fresh herbs like parsley or basil into your green sauce for a unique twist. This can elevate the flavor profile and make it even more exciting!

How to Serve Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Presentation can elevate your meal from good to spectacular! Here are some ideas on how to serve this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of color and an extra layer of flavor.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime right before eating can brighten up all the flavors of the chicken and rice.
• Avocado Slices: Adding creamy avocado slices on the side not only enhances visual appeal but also provides a deliciously smooth texture contrast.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and corn complement the main dish perfectly while adding color and nutrients.
• Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad mixed with diced tomatoes, red onion, corn, and cilantro offers a hearty yet light counterbalance to the richness of chicken and rice.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice brings freshness to your plate, making it a delightful addition.
• Plantain Chips: Crunchy plantain chips can provide that satisfying crunch alongside your meal. Their slight sweetness pairs well with the savory chicken perfectly!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce will not only taste amazing but look stunning too! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it save time during busy weeknights, but the flavors develop even more as it sits. Here’s how to store and make the most of your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the green sauce separate in a small container to maintain its creaminess.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken and rice to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
• Add a splash of water or chicken stock to keep the rice moist while reheating.
• Heat until warmed through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165ºF.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce.

Can I use different cuts of chicken for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce?

Absolutely! You can use any cut of chicken you prefer, such as thighs or breasts. Just ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165ºF for safety.

What can I serve with Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce?

While this dish is delightful on its own, you can enhance your meal by serving it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad to add more color and nutrition.

How do I adjust the spice level in the green sauce?

Feel free to modify the amount of jalapeños based on your heat preference! For milder sauce, remove seeds from jalapeños or use less; for extra kick, add more or include some hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant and flavorful Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce! It’s a wonderful way to bring together friends or family for dinner. The combination of marinated chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy green sauce is sure to impress everyone at your table. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and savor each delicious bite!