Name: Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Prep Made Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless chicken breasts or thighs (Thighs stay juicier.); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 cup lime juice or vinegar (Lemon juice can substitute.); 2 tablespoons olive oil (Avocado oil can give a different richness.); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (Regular paprika for milder flavor.); to taste teaspoon salt; to taste teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup long-grain rice (Arborio for creamier texture.); 2 cups chicken stock (Vegetable broth for vegetarian version.); 1/2 cup peas (Optional.); 1 cup cilantro (Fresh.); 1/4 cup mayonnaise (Greek yogurt as a substitute.); 1/4 cup sour cream (Can be omitted.); 1 piece jalapeños (Adjust based on heat tolerance.); 2 tablespoons olive oil (Canola oil works too.); 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice; to taste tablespoon fresh cilantro or chopped scallions (For garnish.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the fragrant aroma of marinated chicken began to weave its way through the air, instantly whisking me away to the vibrant streets of Peru. This is the magic of my Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce—an aromatic dish that effortlessly blends rich flavors and colorful ingredients. Not only is it gluten-free, but it also boasts a quick prep time, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The tender chicken mingles delightfully with the fluffy rice, all tied together by a creamy, herb-packed green sauce that adds an irresistible twist. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe invites you to savor a taste of South America. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Aromatic Adventure: The fragrance of marinated chicken wafting through your home will transport you straight to Peru, igniting your senses.
Quick Prep: You’ll love how simple and fast this dish is, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The vibrant green sauce, made with fresh herbs and spices, elevates each bite, offering a delightful balance of flavors.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy all the deliciousness without worry, as this dish is completely gluten-free!
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Impress your guests or just enjoy a cozy night in—this meal has something for everyone, much like Oven Baked Chicken Thighs.
Endless Versatility: Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or roasted veggies for a personal twist while maintaining the enticing flavor profile!

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish!

For the Chicken Marinade

Chicken – Use boneless breasts or thighs; thighs stay juicier during cooking.
Garlic – Freshly minced adds depth and a savory aroma to the marinade.
Lime Juice (or Vinegar) – Provides acidity to tenderize chicken and enhance flavor; lemon juice works as a great substitute.
Oil – Use olive oil for marinating; avocado oil can give a different richness.
Cumin – Offers warm, earthy notes—an essential flavor for authentic Peruvian taste.
Smoked Paprika – Adds smokiness and vibrant color; regular paprika if you prefer milder flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste as needed.

For the Rice

Rice – Long-grain works best for fluffiness; Arborio rice gives a creamier texture.
Chicken Stock – Enhances the flavor of the rice; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Peas – Optional, adds sweetness and color; can be omitted if preferred.

For the Green Sauce

Cilantro – Essential for the sauce, bringing freshness; substitute parsley for a milder taste.
Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the sauce; use Greek yogurt for a tangier kick.
Sour Cream – Enhances creaminess and adds a touch of tang; can be omitted for a lighter sauce.
Jalapeños – Provides a welcome kick of heat; adjust based on your heat tolerance, or replace with bell peppers for less heat.
Olive Oil – For blending the green sauce and adding richness; canola oil is a good alternative.
Lemon or Lime Juice – Brightens the sauce, enhancing overall flavor—tweak to your preferred acidity.
Fresh Cilantro or Chopped Scallions (for garnish) – Adds visual appeal and extra flavor; optional but highly recommended.

Now you’re all set to embark on this flavorful journey with your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce! Enjoy the vibrant colors and delectable taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix together minced garlic, lime juice, oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add your choice of boneless chicken breasts or thighs, ensuring they’re well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor. The longer, the better!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C), or your oven to 450°F (232°C). If grilling, place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, basting with reserved marinade. For oven cooking, roast on a lined baking sheet for approximately 30 minutes, basting halfway, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Rice
While the chicken cooks, rinse and soak long-grain rice for 10-15 minutes in cold water, then drain. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté diced onions and garlic until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the drained rice, spices, and chicken stock; bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Finish the Rice
Once the rice is cooked and tender, gently stir in frozen peas for a touch of sweetness and color. Remove from heat, cover with a lid, and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving, ensuring it stays light and airy as the perfect base for the chicken and green sauce.

Step 5: Blend the Green Sauce
In a blender, combine fresh cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped jalapeños, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon or lime juice. Blend until smooth, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be creamy and vibrant, ready to enhance the flavors of your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish
To serve, spoon a generous portion of the fluffy rice onto each plate, top with a piece of the juicy cooked chicken, and drizzle it gloriously with the vibrant green sauce. For finishing touches, garnish with additional cilantro, lime wedges, and jalapeños if desired, creating a visually stunning and flavorful presentation that’s sure to impress.

How to Store and Freeze Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Fridge: Store chicken, rice, and green sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. This keeps flavors fresh and prevents sogginess.

Freezer: Place chicken and rice in medium freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Seal tightly to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then use a microwave with a splash of water to reheat the chicken and rice. Serve with fresh green sauce for added flavor.

Green Sauce: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days in an airtight container.

Expert Tips for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Marinate Wisely: The longer you marinate your chicken, the deeper the flavors will penetrate. Aim for at least one hour, but overnight is even better!
Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooking can lead to dryness, especially with chicken breasts.
Rinse the Rice: Washing the rice until the water runs clear removes excess starch and helps achieve a fluffier texture. Avoid stirring while it cooks to prevent it from becoming sticky.
Taste Adjustments: When blending your green sauce, taste as you go. Adjust the acidity by adding more lemon or lime juice, and don’t be shy with the salt to balance the flavors in your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients! If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the jalapeños or substitute them with bell peppers. Adjust spices based on preference for a personalized touch.
Serving Suggestion: For an extra flavorful experience, serve with warm tortillas or crispy fried plantains, which can complement the vibrant flavors of the dish beautifully.

What to Serve with Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

As you prepare to indulge in the flavors of this delightful dish, consider these complementing bites that will elevate your meal even further.

Crispy Fried Plantains: The sweet, tender bites of plantains contrast beautifully with the savory chicken, adding a delightful sweetness to your plate.
Fresh Tomato and Red Onion Salad: This refreshing salad brightens up the dish and adds a crunchy texture, serving as a perfect palate cleanser between bites.
Zesty Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado mixed with lime and cilantro enhances the meal’s richness, providing both flavor and a burst of color.
Spanish-Style Corn: Sweet corn sautéed with spices and garlic gives a nostalgic comfort that pairs seamlessly with each element of your meal.
Warm Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas can be used to scoop up the chicken and rice or wrap up bites, adding a tactile and interactive element to your dining experience.
Margarita or Pisco Sour: A chilled, citrusy cocktail complements the spices in the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience with a refreshing contrast.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For dessert, these light, crispy sweets drizzled with rich chocolate provide a satisfying finish to your flavorful adventure.

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Variations

Feel free to experiment and elevate your dish with these delightful variations for a personalized touch!

Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or roasted cauliflower for a satisfying vegetarian option. The beauty of this twist is that it retains all the vibrant flavors while catering to plant-based diets.
Spicy Kick: Add more jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the green sauce to amp up the heat. This adds a vibrant punch that can make each bite even more exhilarating.
Cilantro-Free: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, swap it for chopped parsley in the green sauce. You’ll still achieve a fresh taste without the cilantro’s distinctive flavor.
Creamy Lighter Sauce: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy, lighter sauce that still packs a punch. This option keeps the sauce rich and enticing without the extra calories.
Nutty Twist: Incorporate toasted almonds or cashews into the green sauce for added creaminess and texture. This nutty flavor enhances the dish and adds an unexpected yet delightful crunch.
Flavorful Stock: Use homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought for a richer, more robust flavor in the rice. It’s an extra step that will pay off with deep, savory notes.
Herb Mix: Swap out cilantro for a mix of fresh basil and mint in the sauce for a refreshing twist that brings a new dimension to the dish. This herb combo adds an aromatic, garden-fresh essence.
Quick Prep Version: If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of marinating and cooking from scratch, allowing you to whip up this flavor-packed meal in no time.

For an equally amazing experience, don’t forget to check out other recipes like Oven Baked Chicken and enjoy the simplicity of beautiful meals at 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, which deepens the flavors beautifully. Just combine the chicken with garlic, lime juice, oil, cumin, and smoked paprika, then refrigerate until ready to cook. The rice can also be prepared ahead of time—make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the rice on the stove or in the microwave, cook the chicken as directed, and blend the refreshing green sauce just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavors. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade dish ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights!

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my chicken is ripe for marinating?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken for your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce, look for pieces that are a pale pink color with no dark spots or odors. Fresh chicken should be firm to the touch and have a clean aroma. If it has a slimy texture or a strong smell, it’s best to avoid it.

What are the best storage methods for leftovers?
For optimal flavor retention, store your chicken, rice, and green sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. This will keep the rice fluffy and prevent the sauce from making everything soggy. Always allow food to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Can I freeze the chicken and rice?
Definitely! To freeze, place cooled chicken and rice in medium freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring they are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. When stored properly, they can last for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How can I troubleshoot dry chicken when cooking?
Very! To avoid dry chicken, ensure you monitor the cooking time closely. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and use a meat thermometer for accuracy. If baking, keep basting the chicken with the reserved marinade to retain moisture. Also, consider using thighs instead of breasts for juicier results.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted for other dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, swap chicken for tofu or roasted vegetables, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken stock. Always double-check the mayonnaise for any allergens if serving to guests with specific dietary restrictions.

How do I properly store and reheat the green sauce?
The green sauce is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply thaw if frozen and stir it well, as it may separate. Drizzle it fresh on your reheated chicken and rice for that delightful burst of flavor!