There’s something magical about the scent of Peruvian Chicken Rice with Green Sauce wafting through the kitchen. Imagine a savory, cilantro-infused aroma that dances around your senses, coaxing you closer to the stove like a moth to a flame. Each bite bursts with flavors that take you on a culinary journey straight to Peru, where vibrant culture and delicious food collide.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Picture yourself serving it at a family gathering or cozy dinner with friends, and watch their eyes light up as they take the first bite. The perfect blend of textures—from tender chicken to fluffy rice—creates a symphony of deliciousness that leaves everyone wanting more. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor explosion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Peruvian Chicken Rice recipe combines ease of preparation with bold flavors that make every bite memorable
- The vivid green sauce adds visual appeal and freshness, making it irresistible
- It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied
- Perfect for meal prep too!
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends declared it “the best thing ever” and promptly asked for seconds (and thirds).
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on your crowd size.
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Long-Grain Rice: Opt for high-quality rice that cooks up fluffy and absorbs all those tasty flavors.
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Fresh Cilantro: Use fresh cilantro for the green sauce; it gives a bright flavor that’s essential to this dish.
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Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds acidity and balances the richness of the chicken and sauce.
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Garlic Cloves: Choose firm garlic cloves for maximum flavor; they work wonders in both the chicken marinade and sauce.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavors during cooking and gives the chicken a lovely golden color.
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Chicken Broth: For cooking rice, broth adds depth; low-sodium options work best if you’re watching salt intake.
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Cilantro Jalapeño Sauce: This zesty twist brings heat and brightness; it’s what makes this dish truly pop!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Marinade the Chicken: Start by marinating your chicken breasts in a mix of olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Let them soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add your marinated chicken and cook until golden brown on each side—about 6-7 minutes per side. It should smell heavenly!
Prepare the Rice: In a separate pot, combine long-grain rice with chicken broth. Bring to a boil then cover and reduce heat to simmer for 15-20 minutes until fluffy.
Make the Green Sauce: Blend fresh cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt; this sauce is where all the magic happens!
Combine Everything: Once cooked, slice your chicken into strips. Serve it atop a bed of fluffy rice drizzled generously with your vibrant green sauce.
Add Finishing Touches : Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges for that extra flair! Enjoy your masterpiece with friends or family—it’ll be gone before you know it.
Now that you’ve got this Peruvian Chicken Rice with Green Sauce down pat, get ready to impress your guests or simply indulge in some self-love through food!
You Must Know
- This delightful Peruvian chicken rice dish is not just about flavor; it’s a beautiful visual feast
- The green sauce adds a pop of color and zest, making it perfect for impressing guests or family
- Each bite is a vibrant celebration of Latin flavors
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To ensure all components come together perfectly, start by marinating the chicken, then cook the rice while preparing the green sauce to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap white rice for brown or even quinoa for a healthier option. Incorporating extra veggies like bell peppers or peas can add color and crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve juicy chicken, marinate overnight for enhanced flavor absorption
- When cooking rice, use broth instead of water to elevate taste significantly
- Always taste your green sauce before serving; adjust salt and lime juice according to preference
Sometimes, I whip up this Peruvian chicken rice dish for friends’ gatherings, and their delighted faces are priceless! It’s always a hit, sparking laughter and great conversations around the table.
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs add extra juiciness and flavor to this dish.
What can I serve with Peruvian chicken rice?
Pair it with a light salad or some crispy plantains for a complete meal.
How do I make the green sauce spicier?
Add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase heat in the green sauce.
Peruvian Chicken Rice with Green Sauce
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru with this Peruvian Chicken Rice with Green Sauce. Juicy marinated chicken served over fluffy rice, drizzled with a zesty cilantro jalapeño sauce creates an unforgettable meal perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup cilantro jalapeño sauce
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in olive oil, garlic, lime juice, and chopped cilantro for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; cook marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In a separate pot, cook rice in chicken broth according to package instructions (usually about 15-20 minutes).
- Blend cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil for the green sauce; season to taste.
- Slice cooked chicken and serve it over rice; drizzle generously with green sauce and garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 71g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
