Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a flavorful, aromatic dish that brings together juicy, marinated chicken with a fragrant, savory rice. The standout feature is the zesty green sauce made from cilantro, jalapeños, and lime, which adds a refreshing, tangy kick to the meal. It’s a delicious and vibrant dish, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Ingredients

this Recipe

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

For the Rice:

• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Salt to taste

For the Green Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1-2 jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, lime juice, and soy sauce. Rub the mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).
2. Cook the Rice: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the rice and stir to coat in the oil and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in the peas (if using) and season with salt.
3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Sear the chicken thighs for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Prepare the Green Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, jalapeños, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Assemble the Dish: Serve the cooked rice on plates, top with the roasted chicken, and drizzle generously with the green sauce.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus marination time)
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 45-60 minutes

Variations

• For a spicier green sauce, leave the jalapeño seeds in or add more jalapeños.
• Add some roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and color.
• You can swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or even tofu for a lighter, vegetarian option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the rice and chicken in the microwave or oven until heated through. The green sauce can be kept separately and used as a fresh topping when serving.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs, but they may cook faster than bone-in cuts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make the green sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the green sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is the green sauce very spicy?
The heat level of the green sauce depends on the number of jalapeños used and whether you leave in the seeds. For a milder version, use one jalapeño and remove the seeds.

Can I make this dish without cilantro?
You can substitute cilantro with parsley or mint for a different flavor, though the dish won’t have the same signature taste.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works, but it will need a longer cooking time. Adjust the liquid and cooking time as necessary.

Conclusion

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce offers a perfect balance of spices, fresh flavors, and a creamy, zesty sauce that brings the dish to life. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty meal with bold flavors that transport you to Peru with every bite. Perfect for sharing with family or serving at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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