Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce: A Flavorful Feast for Your Table

If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a touch of culinary adventure, look no further than Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce. This dish is a complete meal that combines tender, marinated chicken with fragrant yellow rice and a creamy, zesty green sauce that ties everything together. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering dish step by step.

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Why You’ll Love Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Peruvian cuisine is known for its unique blend of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences, and this dish is a perfect example of that fusion. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful mix of garlic, lime, cumin, and smoked paprika, then grilled or baked to perfection. The yellow rice, seasoned with turmeric and cumin, is aromatic and pairs beautifully with the chicken. And the star of the show? The green sauce—a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy condiment made with cilantro, jalapeños, and a touch of lime.

This recipe is:

• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this dish.
• Versatile: You can grill or bake the chicken, and the green sauce can be adjusted to suit your spice preference.
• Crowd-pleasing: The combination of flavors is universally loved, making it a hit with family and friends.

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Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious meal:

For the Chicken:

• 1.5-2 pounds chicken: Use thighs, breasts, or any cut you prefer. Bone-in, skin-on chicken adds extra flavor, but boneless works too.
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced: For that essential savory base.
• 2 tablespoons lime juice or white vinegar: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons oil of choice: Olive oil, avocado oil, or any neutral oil works.
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin: A key spice in Peruvian cuisine.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds depth and a hint of smokiness.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For a touch of heat.

For the Green Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves: The star ingredient for that vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
• ½ cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess.
• ¼ cup sour cream: Balances the tanginess.
• 2 whole jalapeño chiles, roughly chopped: Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
• 2 cloves garlic: For a punch of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps blend the sauce smoothly.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice: Adds a zesty kick.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.

For the Peruvian Yellow Rice:

• 1 cup jasmine rice: Known for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture.
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil: For sautéing.
• ¼ cup onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced: For extra flavor.
• 1 teaspoon turmeric: Gives the rice its vibrant yellow color.
• ¼ teaspoon each cumin, onion powder, salt, and pepper: For seasoning.
• 2 cups chicken stock: Adds richness to the rice.
• 1 cup frozen peas: For a pop of color and sweetness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, lime juice (or vinegar), oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Reserve about ¼ of the marinade and set it aside for later. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Brush with the reserved marinade halfway through cooking.
• Baking: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Place the chicken on a foil-lined sheet pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until cooked through. Brush with the reserved marinade halfway through.

3. Make the Peruvian Yellow Rice

1. Wash the jasmine rice until the water runs clear, then soak it for 10-15 minutes. Drain well.
2. In a pot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in butter or oil until soft.
3. Add the rice and seasonings (turmeric, cumin, onion powder, salt, and pepper). Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 15 minutes.
5. Stir in the frozen peas, cover, and let the rice rest for 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

4. Prepare the Green Sauce

Add all the green sauce ingredients (cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, jalapeños, garlic, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper) to a blender. Pulse for 30 seconds or until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

5. Assemble and Serve

Divide the yellow rice among serving plates. Top with the grilled or baked chicken and drizzle generously with the green sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.

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The Magic of Peruvian Cuisine

Peruvian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and textures that reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage. With influences from indigenous traditions, Spanish colonialism, African heritage, and Asian immigration, Peruvian food is a unique fusion that has captured the hearts of food lovers worldwide. One of the most iconic dishes that embodies this culinary diversity is Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce.

At the heart of Peruvian cooking is the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and bold seasonings. Dishes often feature a harmonious balance of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors, creating a sensory experience that’s both comforting and exciting. The marinade for Peruvian chicken, for example, typically includes garlic, lime juice, cumin, and smoked paprika—ingredients that infuse the meat with deep, smoky, and citrusy notes.

Another hallmark of Peruvian cuisine is its versatility. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or roasting, the techniques are adaptable to different cooking methods and preferences. The green sauce, or aji verde, is a perfect example of this adaptability. Made with cilantro, jalapeños, and creamy elements like mayonnaise and sour cream, it can be adjusted to suit your spice tolerance and taste.

Peruvian food is also deeply rooted in community and celebration. Meals are often shared with family and friends, making dishes like Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce perfect for gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant rice, and zesty sauce is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

By exploring Peruvian cuisine, you’re not just cooking a meal—you’re embarking on a culinary journey that celebrates history, culture, and the joy of sharing good food.

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 The Art of Marinating Chicken

Marinating is one of the most effective ways to infuse chicken with flavor and ensure it stays juicy and tender during cooking. In the case of Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, the marinade plays a crucial role in creating the dish’s signature taste.

The key to a great marinade is balancing acidity, fat, and seasonings. The acidity, often from lime juice or vinegar, helps break down the proteins in the chicken, making it more tender. In this recipe, lime juice not only tenderizes the meat but also adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the smoky cumin and paprika.

Fat, such as oil, helps carry the flavors of the spices and ensures the chicken doesn’t dry out during cooking. The combination of oil and spices like garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika creates a rich, aromatic base that coats the chicken beautifully.

Timing is also important when marinating. While 1 hour is sufficient to impart flavor, marinating the chicken overnight allows the ingredients to penetrate deeper, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish. However, be cautious with highly acidic marinades, as they can over-tenderize the meat if left too long, giving it a mushy texture.

When marinating, always use a non-reactive container, such as glass or ceramic, to prevent any metallic taste from affecting the chicken. Additionally, reserve a portion of the marinade before adding the chicken to use as a basting sauce during cooking. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and helps create a delicious glaze on the chicken.

Mastering the art of marinating is a game-changer in the kitchen, and this Peruvian chicken recipe is a perfect example of how a well-crafted marinade can elevate a simple dish into something extraordinary.

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 The Versatility of Green Sauce

The green sauce in Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is more than just a condiment—it’s the star of the show. Known as aji verde in Peru, this creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in countless ways beyond this recipe.

At its core, the green sauce is a blend of fresh cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, and creamy elements like mayonnaise and sour cream. The result is a vibrant sauce that’s both refreshing and rich, with a flavor profile that complements a wide variety of dishes.

One of the best things about this sauce is its adaptability. If you prefer a milder version, simply reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds. For a creamier texture, add more mayonnaise or sour cream. You can also experiment with additional ingredients, such as avocado for extra richness or yogurt for a lighter tang.

Beyond pairing it with Peruvian chicken, this green sauce can be used as a dip for vegetables, a spread for sandwiches, or a topping for grilled fish or steak. It’s also fantastic drizzled over tacos, burritos, or even scrambled eggs. The possibilities are endless, making it a must-have in your culinary repertoire.

Making the sauce is incredibly easy. Simply toss all the ingredients into a blender and pulse until smooth. It can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient addition to your meals.

Tips for Success

• Chicken Cuts: While thighs and breasts are popular choices, you can also use a whole chicken cut into pieces, drumsticks, or leg quarters.
• Spice Level: Adjust the number of jalapeños in the green sauce to control the heat. Remove the seeds for a milder sauce.
• Make Ahead: The green sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. The chicken can also be marinated overnight.

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Nutrition Information

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious! Here’s a breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 655kcal
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Protein: 46g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 126mg
• Sodium: 1036mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g

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Final Thoughts

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a celebration of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Peru. The tender, marinated chicken, fragrant yellow rice, and creamy green sauce come together to create a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to delight.