There’s something magical about the aroma of Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce wafting through your kitchen. Picture succulent chicken simmering in a medley of spices, surrounded by fluffy rice that just begs for a fork. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, bursting with flavors that dance on your taste buds and make your belly sing.
This delightful recipe has a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of family gatherings where laughter and love filled the air. Imagining my relatives gathered around the table, eagerly diving into this vibrant dish, makes me smile every time. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive occasions, this Peruvian Chicken and Rice will have everyone asking for seconds—guaranteed!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The explosion of flavors from the spices creates an unforgettable taste experience
- Visually appealing with its colorful presentation, it’s sure to impress your guests
- Versatile enough to serve at any occasion, from casual get-togethers to fancy dinner parties
I still chuckle remembering the first time I served this dish to friends; they were blown away by the flavor explosion!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on your appetite.
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Long-Grain Rice: Choose quality rice for better texture; it cooks fluffy and separates perfectly.
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Fresh Cilantro: Use fresh cilantro for that vibrant green sauce; it adds brightness and aroma.
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Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances flavor; bottled stuff just doesn’t cut it.
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Garlic Cloves: Opt for fresh garlic for maximum flavor impact; crushed cloves release more zest.
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Cumin Powder: A must-have spice that brings warmth—don’t skip it unless you’re fond of bland food.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing richness in the rice.
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Green Chili Peppers: Adjust spiciness by choosing mild or hot peppers according to your preference.
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Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sauté ingredients; it adds depth without overpowering flavors.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every component—season generously but taste as you go!
For the Sauce:
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Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and balances out flavors; choose full-fat for indulgence or light for guilt-free.
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Mayonnaise: Provides a creamy base for the green sauce; mix with lime juice for extra zing.
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Pepper Jack Cheese (optional): For those who love extra creaminess and spice; it’s totally worth trying!
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Avocado (optional): Add ripe avocado for an even creamier sauce; plus, who doesn’t love avocado?
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Start with marinating the chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken breasts with lime juice, minced garlic, cumin powder, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the fridge to absorb those delicious flavors.
Cook your rice: Rinse long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until they become translucent. Then add the rice and toast until lightly golden.
Add broth: Pour in chicken broth along with some salt and bring it to a boil. Cover and lower the heat to simmer gently until all liquid is absorbed—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Sear the chicken: In another skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear marinated chicken pieces until browned on each side—approximately 5-6 minutes per side should do!
Blend up that green sauce: In a blender or food processor, mix fresh cilantro, sour cream, mayonnaise, green chili peppers (if using), lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed for that perfect balance.
Serve it up: Once everything is ready—fluff your cooked rice with a fork before plating! Top with chopped cilantro if desired and drizzle generously with that luscious green sauce.
Now you have yourself an unforgettable plate of Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce! Enjoy every bite while basking in compliments from family and friends—they won’t believe how easy it was!
You Must Know
- Mastering Peruvian chicken and rice with green sauce is about balancing flavors and textures
- This dish’s vibrant colors and aromas will make your kitchen feel like a culinary fiesta
- Don’t skip the green sauce; it’s the secret to elevating your meal!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour, then sear it before cooking the rice. This method ensures juicy chicken and flavorful rice without unnecessary fuss.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in brown rice for added nutrition or toss in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or corn. Personalizing this dish enhances both flavor and health benefits.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality chicken thighs for juicier results; they hold more flavor than breasts
- Let the rice rest after cooking—this improves texture
- Always taste your green sauce before serving; a little extra lime juice can work wonders!
Cooking this Peruvian chicken and rice with green sauce reminds me of joyful family gatherings, where laughter and delicious aromas filled the air. Those moments inspired my love for cooking!
FAQ
What can I serve with Peruvian chicken and rice?
Pair it with a fresh salad or crispy plantains for a complete meal experience.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a day ahead enhances flavors, making it even tastier when served.
Is the green sauce spicy?
The green sauce has a mild kick; adjust jalapeño according to your spice preference!
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a flavor-packed dish that combines succulent chicken marinated in spices, fluffy rice, and a vibrant green sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, ensuring a delightful culinary experience that will leave everyone wanting more. Simple to prepare yet impressive in taste, it’s a dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1–2 green chili peppers (to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- Optional: ¼ cup Pepper Jack cheese, diced
- Optional: ½ avocado, diced
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix chicken with lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Rinse rice until water runs clear. Sauté onions in olive oil until translucent; add rice to toast lightly before adding chicken broth and salt. Cover and simmer until liquid is absorbed (15-20 minutes).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear marinated chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until browned.
- Blend cilantro, sour cream, mayonnaise, chili peppers (if using), lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and plate it. Top with chopped cilantro and drizzle generously with green sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing, Simmering, Blending
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
