Savory Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Delight

Name: Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro; Juice of 2 limes; 1 cup white rice; 2 cups water; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Cathy

Posted:

September 6, 2025

Updated:

September 6, 2025

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The moment you catch a whiff of Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce, it’s like your taste buds throw a fiesta. Imagine fragrant spices dancing in the air, mingling with the sizzling chicken as it cooks to juicy perfection. The vibrant green sauce, made from fresh herbs and zesty lime, adds a punch of flavor that makes this dish a culinary celebration.

Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to my college days, where my roommate was a culinary prodigy from Peru. He had this way of making the simplest ingredients sing—a true maestro in the kitchen! Since then, Peruvian Chicken and Rice has been my go-to recipe for gatherings and cozy nights at home. It’s perfect for those who crave comfort food with an exotic twist while still being family-friendly enough to satisfy picky eaters. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy-to-make dish delivers an explosion of flavor that will impress your guests.
You can customize the chicken marinade to suit your taste preferences perfectly.
The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dining table.
It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive celebration.

Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they really boost the dish’s aroma.
Cumin: This spice is essential for an authentic Peruvian flavor; it adds warmth and depth.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for the green sauce; its bright flavor brings everything together.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up both the chicken and the sauce with its tangy goodness.

For the Sauce:

Mayonnaise: A creamy base for our green sauce; it helps bind all those flavors together nicely.
Jalapeño: Adjust according to your heat preference—more jalapeño means more kick!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

How to Make Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your boneless chicken breasts in a large bowl. Add minced garlic, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat every piece of chicken evenly. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—this is where all that flavor magic happens!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You want that beautiful golden sear!

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

While the chicken sizzles away, rinse one cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine rinsed rice with two cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium heat before reducing it down to low for about 15 minutes or until fluffy.

Step 4: Make the Green Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy—this sauce will be your new obsession!

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Once everything is cooked and ready—slice those juicy chicken breasts! Serve them over a bed of fluffy rice and drizzle generously with your vibrant green sauce.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer to plates with extra lime wedges on the side for that zingy finish. Trust me; you’ll want everyone at your table to experience this flavor explosion!

With these steps completed successfully (high-five!), you’re now ready to impress friends or simply indulge in some well-deserved comfort food at home. Enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

This delightful Peruvian chicken and rice with green sauce brings not just flavor, but a fiesta for your taste buds.
The vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas make it perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively party with friends.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in your favorite spices. Sear it until golden brown, then cook the rice in the same pot for a burst of flavor. While that simmers, blend your green sauce to drizzle on top.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your pantry! Use quinoa instead of rice, add black beans for extra protein, or spice things up with jalapeños in the green sauce.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to keep everything juicy and delicious without drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F to ensure it’s juicy and safe.
Let it rest after cooking to keep those flavors locked in.
Always taste your green sauce before serving; adjust lime juice or spices as needed for balance.

When I first made this dish, my family thought I had transformed into a gourmet chef overnight! The kids devoured their plates and even asked for seconds—now that’s saying something!

FAQs :

What is Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce?

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a delightful dish that features tender chicken marinated in spices, served over flavorful rice. The signature element of this dish is the vibrant green sauce made from fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, and green chili. This combination creates a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. It reflects the rich culinary traditions of Peru, combining various flavors that excite the palate.

How do I make the green sauce for Peruvian Chicken and Rice?

To make the green sauce for Peruvian Chicken and Rice, blend fresh cilantro, parsley, green chilies, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil in a food processor. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce adds a zesty kick to the dish and can also be used as a marinade for the chicken. The balance of flavors in this green sauce enhances every bite, making it an essential component of the recipe.

Can I prepare Peruvian Chicken in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Peruvian Chicken in advance. Marinate the chicken overnight to deepen its flavor before cooking. You can also cook it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving with rice and green sauce. Preparing this dish in advance makes it convenient for busy weeknights or gatherings while ensuring that you enjoy its vibrant flavors.

What side dishes pair well with Peruvian Chicken and Rice?

Several side dishes complement Peruvian Chicken and Rice beautifully. A simple salad with avocado and tomatoes adds freshness to the meal. Additionally, serving fried plantains provides a sweet contrast to the savory chicken and rice combination. For a complete experience, consider including some spicy corn on the cob or roasted vegetables seasoned with lime juice for extra zest.

Conclusion for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce :

In summary, Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, fragrant rice, and a vibrant green sauce full of fresh herbs. This recipe is easy to follow and allows you to bring a taste of Peru into your home kitchen. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with sides like salad or fried plantains, this dish promises satisfaction at every meal. Embrace this culinary adventure today!

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