As a warm breeze fluttered through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but think of the vibrant streets of Peru filled with tantalizing aromas. It’s that same spirit I want to share with you through my beloved recipe for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce. This meal is not just easy to whip up, but it also transforms a regular dinner night into an exciting culinary journey. The marinated chicken, whether grilled or baked, brings a perfect tenderness, while the creamy green sauce adds a zesty kick that complements the aromatic jasmine rice beautifully. Trust me, this dish is sure to become a household favorite, delighting both your family and friends. What could be better than bringing a taste of Peru right into your home?
Why is this dish a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: The vibrant spices and creamy green sauce create a mouthwatering experience that will elevate your taste buds to new heights.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps to follow, making this exquisite meal is a breeze even on busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, serving as a wonderful conversation starter during gatherings or dinner parties.
Versatile Ingredients: Designed to accommodate various palates, you can easily customize spices or adapt sides to suit dietary needs or preferences.
Cultural Adventure: Bring a touch of Peru into your home, offering a refreshing alternative to fast food that’s as exciting as it’s delicious. Want to explore more Delicious Dinner Ideas to complement this? Don’t miss it!
Peruvian Chicken & Rice Ingredients
• Dive into the mouthwatering world of Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce!
For the Chicken
- Chicken: 1.5-2 pounds – Use thighs or breasts for a juicy protein base.
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced – Infuses the marinade with rich, aromatic flavor.
- Lime Juice (or White Vinegar): 2 tablespoons – Adds necessary acidity; vinegar works as a substitute.
- Oil: 2 tablespoons (of choice) – Ensures even marination; olive oil is a great option.
- Ground Cumin: 1 tablespoon – Brings a warm, earthy note to your dish.
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon – Imparts a subtle smokiness to the chicken.
- Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon – Boosts flavor; adjust based on taste.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground – Enhances the complexity of flavors.
For the Creamy Green Sauce
- Fresh Cilantro: 1 cup leaves – A key ingredient for freshness; substitute with parsley if desired.
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup – Forms the creamy base; Greek yogurt offers a lighter alternative.
- Sour Cream: ¼ cup – Adds richness; can be omitted for a lighter sauce.
- Jalapeño Chiles: 2 whole, roughly chopped – Provides spice; remove seeds for milder heat.
For the Rice
- Jasmine Rice: 1 cup – Delivers a light and fragrant base.
- Chicken Stock: 2 cups – Enhances flavor; swap with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
- Frozen Peas: 1 cup – Adds a pop of color and sweetness; can replace with other veggies like corn.
- Butter or Oil: 1 tablespoon for sautéing rice – Creates a flavorful base before cooking.
Enjoy crafting this delightful Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a bowl, mix together minced garlic, lime juice, oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper until combined. Reserve ¼ of the marinade for later use. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the remaining marinade and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to infuse the flavors deeply.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 450°F. If grilling, cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until it reaches a golden brown color. If baking, place the chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, brushing with reserved marinade halfway through, until the internal temperature hits 165°F.
Step 3: Prepare Rice
Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cool water until clear to remove excess starch. In a medium pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter or heat oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the rice, stirring frequently for 1 minute, until aromatic, then pour in 2 cups of chicken stock and bring to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer Rice
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes. After the time is up, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. Cover again and let it rest for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld while the rice finishes cooking and becomes fluffy.
Step 5: Make Green Sauce
In a blender, combine 1 cup of fresh cilantro leaves, ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, 2 roughly chopped jalapeños, 2 tablespoons lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste, and feel free to add more jalapeño for heat, ensuring you have a vibrant, tangy green sauce ready to accompany your dish.
Step 6: Serve
On each plate, create a bed of the fluffy jasmine rice, then top it with the succulent grilled chicken. Generously drizzle the creamy green sauce over the chicken and rice, adding a pop of color and flavor. This delightful Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is now ready to be enjoyed, bringing a taste of Peru right to your home!
Make Ahead Options
These Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for enhanced taste. Additionally, the creamy green sauce can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; just seal it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill or bake the marinated chicken and reheat the rice, which can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes for a quick and hassle-free dinner, ensuring every bite is just as delicious as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Peruvian Chicken & Rice
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Marination Time: Longer is better: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight if possible; this maximizes flavor absorption and tenderness.
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Cooking Temperature: Always check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption. This prevents undercooked or dry chicken.
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Rice Rinsing: Don’t skip rinsing: Rinsing the jasmine rice until the water runs clear removes excess starch, resulting in fluffy, non-sticky rice.
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Green Sauce Consistency: Adjust to preference: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of lime juice or water to achieve your desired creaminess while preserving the vibrant flavor.
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Pea Replacement: Mix it up: Feel free to incorporate other veggies like diced carrots or corn for varied color and taste in your Peruvian Chicken & Rice.
Peruvian Chicken & Rice Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity by customizing this delightful dish to suit your taste!
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Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicy, succulent meat that remains tender after cooking. It brings an incredible richness to each bite.
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Brown Rice: Replace jasmine rice with brown rice for a healthier, nutty flavor profile. The added fiber enhances the nutritional value, making dinner even more wholesome.
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Quinoa Alternative: For added protein, use quinoa instead of rice. This gluten-free grain provides a delightful texture and absorbs the dish’s flavors beautifully.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs for the sauce, like fresh dill or mint. They create a refreshing twist, offering a bright contrast to the hearty chicken.
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Veggie Additions: Toss in additional veggies like diced carrots or bell peppers with the peas. They brighten up the dish while adding color and nutrition.
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Sour Cream Replacement: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-calorie alternative that still maintains creaminess. It’s a lighter option without compromising texture!
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Heat Levels: Adjust jalapeños according to your spice tolerance—remove the seeds for a milder sauce or double them for a spicy kick that truly awakens the palate.
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Delicious Sides: Pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables to round out your meal. A fresh dish like Cucumber Salad complements the robust flavors perfectly!
What to Serve with Flavorsome Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Creamy Green Sauce
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides and refreshing beverages that complement this vibrant dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness offers a delightful contrast to the juicy chicken and zesty sauce. Perfect for those who love a comforting texture on their plate.
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Crisp Mixed Salad: A refreshing blend of greens and vegetables brings lightness, balancing the meal’s richness and providing a satisfying crunch.
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Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and lemon, the tender spears add a bright flavor and vibrant color, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Herb Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with herbs complements the chicken beautifully, maintaining the Peruvian theme while adding a delicious depth of flavor.
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Garlicky Bread Rolls: Soft and fluffy, these rolls are perfect for mopping up the creamy green sauce, creating a mouthwatering accompaniment that everyone will love.
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Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp white wine offers refreshing acidity that beautifully balances the chicken’s richness, making every bite a culinary delight.
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Mango Sorbet: End the meal on a sweet note with this fruity dessert, providing a light and refreshing finish after the flavorful, savory main course.
How to Store and Freeze Peruvian Chicken & Rice
Fridge: Place leftover chicken, rice, and green sauce in separate airtight containers. They’ll keep fresh for up to 4 days, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious meal again.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and rice in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely before freezing, and label with the date.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, and warm the rice in a microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of water to rehydrate.
Green Sauce Storage: The creamy green sauce can remain fresh in the fridge for about 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays and transfer to a bag for quick flavor boosters!
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for my Peruvian Chicken and Rice?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose chicken that is fresh and looks pink with a firm texture, avoiding any discoloration. When selecting cilantro, look for vibrant green leaves without wilting, and ensure your limes are firm with a little give for juiciness.
What is the best way to store leftovers from this dish?
Very! Store leftover chicken, rice, and green sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy the vibrant flavors again without loss of quality! For best results, make sure everything is cooled completely before sealing the containers.
Can I freeze the Peruvian Chicken and Rice?
Certainly! You can freeze both the chicken and rice for up to 3 months. To do so, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date to keep track, and remember to eat them within that timeframe for the best texture and flavor!
What should I do if my chicken is dry after cooking?
Oh no! If your chicken turns out dry, it might be due to overcooking. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F. To prevent this next time, ensure to marinate the chicken longer, as this enhances moisture, or consider using thighs instead of breasts, as they tend to stay juicier.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This dish can be adjusted easily for dietary needs. For gluten-free options, make sure the stock you use is gluten-free. To lighten the green sauce, substitute mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, and if you’re avoiding dairy altogether, you can omit the sour cream. Always check individual ingredient labels to cater to allergies!
Can my pet eat any of the leftovers?
Not exactly! While plain cooked chicken is safe for pets, the marinade and green sauce may contain ingredients that are not pet-friendly, like garlic or too much lime. Make sure to set aside some plain chicken for them, but avoid sharing the saucy leftovers!
Savory Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Creamy Green Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix together minced garlic, lime juice, oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper until combined. Reserve ¼ of the marinade for later use. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the remaining marinade and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to infuse the flavors deeply.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 450°F. If grilling, cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. If baking, place the chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, brushing with reserved marinade halfway through, until the internal temperature hits 165°F.
- Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cool water until clear to remove excess starch. In a medium pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter or heat oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the rice, stirring frequently for 1 minute, until aromatic, then pour in 2 cups of chicken stock and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes. After the time is up, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. Cover again and let it rest for another 5-10 minutes.
- In a blender, combine 1 cup of fresh cilantro leaves, ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, 2 roughly chopped jalapeños, 2 tablespoons lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- On each plate, create a bed of the fluffy jasmine rice, then top it with grilled chicken. Generously drizzle the creamy green sauce over the chicken and rice.
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