The first whiff of this Easy Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Zesty Green Sauce will have you daydreaming of sun-soaked plazas and lively markets, bursting with the vibrant colors of Peruvian cuisine. As you dive into this comforting dish, the succulent marinated chicken and fluffy rice come together beautifully, enhanced by a refreshing green sauce that transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into something truly exceptional. With quick prep and easy cooking, this recipe is a lifesaver for those of us tired of fast food but craving homemade adventure. You’ll be amazed at how a few fresh ingredients can elevate a simple dinner into a flavorful escape. Ready to spice up your dinner routine and impress your loved ones with a taste of Peru? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is Peruvian Chicken So Irresistible? Vibrant Flavors: The zesty green sauce infused with cilantro and lime brings a refreshing twist that tickles your taste buds. Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, anyone can master this dish—perfect for busy weeknights! Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this comforting meal satisfies every palate, making it a surefire hit at any table. Versatile Ingredients: Swap rice for quinoa or toss in your favorite veggies to customize your dish while keeping it gluten-free. Cultural Delight: Enjoy a taste of Peru without leaving home—this dish perfectly encapsulates the vibrant culinary traditions of this beautiful country. Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Ingredients For the Chicken Boneless Chicken Breasts/Thighs – Choose thighs for a juicier option or breasts for a healthier alternative. Garlic – Fresh garlic lends the marinade a robust aromatic quality, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor. Lime Juice – Fresh lime juice adds brightness and acidity; avoid bottled for the freshest taste. Olive Oil – Provides richness in the marinade; substitute with another oil if you prefer a different flavor. For the Rice Rice – Acts as the dish’s base; for a gluten-free option, you can easily swap it with quinoa. For the Green Sauce Fresh Cilantro – This brings a herbaceous note to the sauce; parsley can be used if you prefer a milder flavor. Jalapeño – Adds a kick to the sauce; remove the seeds for less heat or replace with a milder pepper. Garlic (for Sauce) – Use additional fresh garlic in the green sauce for an extra aromatic punch. Lime Juice (for Sauce) – Enhances the sauce’s flavor profile with bright acidity. Olive Oil (for Sauce) – Helps to blend the sauce smoothly while adding richness. This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce recipe is not only a delectable treat but also a feast for the senses, inviting you to explore the vibrant flavors of Peru right in your own kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a mixing bowl, combine boneless chicken breasts or thighs with fresh lime juice, minced garlic, and your favorite spices, such as paprika and cumin. Ensure that all pieces are evenly coated in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature to develop rich flavors while you prepare the rice. Step 2: Cook the Rice While the chicken marinates, rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and all the water is absorbed. Step 3: Sear the Chicken Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let rest. Step 4: Prepare Green Sauce In a blender, combine a cup of fresh cilantro, minced garlic, jalapeño (adjusted for spice), lime juice, and olive oil. Blend on high until smooth, scraping down the sides if necessary. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt or additional lime juice as desired, allowing vibrant flavors to shine through in your Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce. Step 5: Plate the Dish To serve, fluff the cooked rice with a fork and create a bed in each serving plate. Place the seared chicken on top and generously drizzle with the zesty green sauce. You may wish to garnish with additional cilantro or lime wedges for extra pop. Enjoy the delightful fusion of textures and flavors in your homemade Peruvian Chicken And Rice! How to Store and Freeze Peruvian Chicken and Rice Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps your flavorful Peruvian Chicken and Rice fresh and ready for a quick meal! Freezer: If you wish to freeze the chicken and rice, portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers. This can last for up to 3 months; ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth until heated through. Green Sauce Storage: Keep any remaining green sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a good stir before drizzling over your reheated chicken and rice! Peruvian Chicken And Rice Variations Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own, enhancing the experience with exciting twists! Grain Swap: Replace rice with quinoa or couscous for a delightful texture change and added nutrients. Quinoa lends a nutty flavor that complements the dish wonderfully. Herb Infusion: Swap fresh cilantro with parsley or even basil for a different herbal note. Each herb brings its unique flair, changing the overall flavor profile. Vegetable Boost: Stir in chopped bell peppers or peas while cooking the rice for added color and crunch. This brightens your plate and increases the nutritional value! Creamier Sauce: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado to the green sauce for a creamier texture. This alteration creates a rich base that balances the zesty flavors nicely. Savory Umami: Stir in a splash of soy sauce or miso paste into the marinade for an umami boost. This deepens the flavor and adds an unexpected twist that’s sure to intrigue your taste buds. Heat Level: For a spicier kick, double the jalapeño or toss in some crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the heat to your liking and enjoy a more fiery experience. Topping Ideas: Consider adding diced avocado or pickled onions as a vibrant finishing touch. These toppings add texture and a refreshing burst alongside the rich chicken and rice. If you’re looking for a twist on your next dinner adventure, check out my recipes for Grilled Chicken Sandwich or Chicken Ranch Macaroni. There’s always a way to enhance your culinary journey! Expert Tips for Peruvian Chicken and Rice Marinate Properly: Ensure the chicken is marinated for at least 15 minutes. This enhances flavor and tenderness, making your Peruvian Chicken and Rice truly succulent. Rice Consistency: Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch. This helps achieve fluffy rice, perfect for soaking up the zesty green sauce. Adjust Heat Level: When adding jalapeño to the green sauce, don’t forget to taste as you go! Remove seeds for a milder kick or add more for a spicier experience. Blend Smoothly: For the green sauce, blend until completely smooth to ensure a creamy texture that coats the chicken and rice beautifully. Make Ahead: Preparing the green sauce in advance allows the flavors to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making your mealtime even easier. Garnish Creatively: Finish your dish with fresh cilantro or lime for a pop of color and added freshness, making your Peruvian Chicken and Rice visually appealing and delightful! Make Ahead Options These Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to keep it in the refrigerator to maintain its juicy flavor. The vibrant green sauce can also be prepared ahead of time—store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days so it stays fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply cook the rice and sear the marinated chicken, then plate it with the green sauce drizzled on top for a delicious dinner that tastes like it took all day to create! What to Serve with Easy Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Zesty Green Sauce Elevate your dining experience by pairing your vibrant Peruvian chicken and rice with delightful sides that complement every flavor. Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini in olive oil and herbs. Their natural sweetness balances the zesty spices of the main dish. Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a perfect contrast to the rich flavors. Warm Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas are perfect for scooping up the chicken and rice. They add a wonderful texture and can be used as a flavorful vehicle for the green sauce. Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices introduce a smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken. Their richness balances the acidity of the lime in the green sauce. Pickled Red Onions: These vibrant, tangy pickled onions add a punch of flavor and a beautiful pop of color. They offer a delightful contrast to the dish’s richness and enhance the overall dining experience. Chilled Mango Salsa: The sweet and fruity notes of mango salsa provide an unexpected burst of flavor. It’s the perfect side to add a tropical twist to your meal. Cilantro Lime Rice: For an extra dose of flavor, serve alongside cilantro lime rice. This enhances the dish’s overall theme, tying the meal together with a fresh, herbaceous touch. Refreshing Mint Lemonade: A cool mint lemonade makes a splendid drink pairing that refreshes the palate and adds a refreshing contrast to your savory chicken and rice. Each of these pairings will not only round out your meal but also create a delightful symphony of flavors that highlight the essence of your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce. Enjoy your culinary journey! Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe FAQs How do I know if my chicken is perfectly ripe for marinating? Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for plump, firm pieces with no discoloration. Fresh chicken should have a pinkish hue and be free of any dark spots. Always check the sell-by date, and for best results, I recommend using chicken within 1-2 days of purchase. What is the best way to store leftovers of Peruvian Chicken and Rice? Very! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep both the chicken and rice fresh and flavorful. To reheat, you can use the microwave or stove, adding a splash of water to the rice to prevent it from drying out. Can I freeze the Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce? Yes, you can! To freeze, portion the chicken and rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure they’re well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly. What if my green sauce comes out too spicy? No worries at all! If your green sauce is too spicy, you can balance it by adding more lime juice or olive oil to dilute the heat. Alternatively, mix in a bit of sour cream or plain yogurt for creaminess, which softens the spiciness beautifully. Can I make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! The Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is naturally gluten-free when using regular rice. If you’re looking for even more options, you can substitute the rice with quinoa or even couscous if you’re comfortable with that. Always check labels to ensure any ingredients used are certified gluten-free. Is this recipe safe for my pets? Not recommended! While the chicken itself is safe for pets in moderation, avoid feeding them the green sauce. Ingredients like garlic and jalapeños can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet! Savory Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Delight This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a flavorful escape, blending succulent chicken with zesty sauce for an unforgettable dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsMarinating Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: PeruvianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Boneless Chicken Breasts/Thighs Choose thighs for juiciness or breasts for a healthier option.3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic for marinade.1/4 cup Lime Juice Freshly squeezed.2 tablespoons Olive OilFor the Rice1 cup Rice Swap with quinoa for gluten-free option.For the Green Sauce1 cup Fresh Cilantro Can substitute with parsley.1 piece Jalapeño Remove seeds for less heat.2 cloves Garlic For sauce.1/4 cup Lime Juice For sauce.2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sauce. Equipment Mixing bowlMedium saucepanLarge skilletBlender Method Step-by-Step InstructionsMarinate the chicken by combining boneless chicken with lime juice, minced garlic, and spices. Let marinate for 15 minutes.Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water, then combine with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Bring to boil, reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet, add marinated chicken, and sear for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.In a blender, combine cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning to taste.To serve, fluff the rice and place on a plate, add chicken on top, and drizzle with green sauce. Garnish with cilantro or lime if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 32gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg NotesMarinate chicken for at least 15 minutes for best flavor. Rinse rice to achieve fluffiness. Adjust jalapeño based on spice preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
