Easy Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

If you’re craving a dish that combines vibrant flavors with satisfying comfort food vibes, then this easy Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a lively celebration of juicy, tender chicken paired effortlessly with fluffy, aromatic rice and a zesty, herb-packed green sauce that brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re new to Peruvian cuisine or just looking for a quick and delicious meal, this recipe delivers a flavorful punch that’s sure to impress every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples enhanced with fresh herbs and spices for authentic taste.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for weeknight dinners without fuss.
• Bold Flavors: The green sauce adds a bright, tangy kick that complements the savory chicken perfectly.
• Versatile Meal: Works well as a family dinner or for meal prep lunches throughout the week.
• Balanced Nutrition: Combines protein and carbs with fresh herbs for a wholesome, hearty dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients come together in harmony to create the magic of Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce. Each component adds depth—whether it’s the fragrant rice, tender marinated chicken, or the vibrant green sauce bursting with flavor.

• Chicken thighs: Choose bone-in, skin-on for juicier, more flavorful meat.
• White rice: Long grain rice works best for fluffy, separate grains.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with warmth and aroma.
• Yellow chili pepper (ají amarillo): A key Peruvian spice adding mild heat and fruity notes.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the green sauce with herbal freshness.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and smooth texture to the green sauce.
• Lime juice: Provides tang and balances the richness.
• Olive oil: For searing chicken and sautéing rice with a subtle fruity flavor.
• Chicken broth: Enhances the rice with savory depth.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and texture once sautéed.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out all the flavors.

Variations for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

This recipe is super adaptable, allowing you to tweak ingredients or spice levels depending on what you have or your dietary preferences. Feel free to take inspiration and make it your own!

• Spicy boost: Add more yellow chili or a splash of hot sauce to the green sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian twist: Swap chicken for roasted cauliflower or cooked mushrooms to enjoy a plant-based version.
• Dairy-free sauce: Replace mayonnaise with avocado or a dairy-free yogurt for creamy consistency.
• Rice alternatives: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free or low-carb option.
• Herb tweaks: Mix in parsley or mint into the green sauce for a different herbal note.

How to Make Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine minced garlic, lime juice, salt, pepper, and a splash of olive oil in a bowl. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well, then let them marinate for at least 20 minutes to soak in those vibrant flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Sauce

In a blender, combine fresh cilantro, yellow chili pepper, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, salt, and a touch of olive oil. Blend until smooth and set aside. This sauce is the star that will brighten up the whole dish.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down until they’re golden and crisp, then flip and cook until done (internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C). Remove from skillet and rest.

Step 4: Make the Rice

In the same skillet, sauté diced onion until translucent. Add rice and stir for a couple of minutes to coat grains with oil and flavors. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Plate the fluffy rice, top with the juicy chicken thighs, then drizzle generous amounts of green sauce over the chicken. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if you like that fresh pop!

Pro Tips for Making Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

• Marinate longer: For even deeper flavor, marinate chicken up to 2 hours or overnight.
• Crispy skin hack: Pat chicken skin dry before cooking to ensure it crisps beautifully.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro makes all the difference in the green sauce’s brightness.
• Don’t skip simmering: Let the rice cook undisturbed with the lid on for perfect texture.
• Adjust sauce consistency: Add water or more mayonnaise to green sauce to tailor it to your liking.

How to Serve Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro leaves, lime wedges, and thinly sliced red onions add color and an extra layer of flavor that complements the Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp salad of mixed greens or a tangy slaw to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans are also fantastic options.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken and rice in a rustic bowl with the green sauce drizzled artistically on top, or plate it family-style for a warm, inviting meal your guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooked chicken, rice, and green sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

Freeze the chicken and rice (without the green sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat chicken and rice gently in a pan or microwave, then add fresh green sauce after warming to keep its vibrant flavor and creaminess intact.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful.

What if I can’t find yellow chili pepper?

You can substitute with mild jalapeño or a small amount of banana pepper, though the unique fruity flavor of ají amarillo is ideal.

Is this recipe spicy?

The green sauce has a mild to medium heat level, which you can easily adjust by adding more or less chili pepper according to your taste.

Can I prepare the green sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The green sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld even more.

What’s a good gluten-free option for this dish?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure mayonnaise is gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce hits all the right notes: vibrant, comforting, and full of flavor without any complicated steps. It’s an easy recipe that will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen, perfect for sharing with loved ones and bringing a taste of Peru right to your dining table. Give it a try and savor every bite!

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