Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together bold flavors and vibrant colors. This recipe showcases succulent chicken marinated to perfection, served over aromatic yellow rice and drizzled with a creamy green sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests at a gathering. With its unique fusion of ingredients, this dish will quickly become a favorite on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and the creamy green sauce creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can have this delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant yellow rice and green sauce make for an eye-catching dish that’s sure to impress.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the vegetables, it’s both delicious and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce, having the right tools is essential. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or oven
• Mixing bowl
• Blender
• Medium pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or oven: These provide versatile cooking options for the chicken, ensuring it turns out juicy and flavorful.
• Blender: A powerful blender is crucial for achieving a smooth, creamy texture in your green sauce.
• Mixing bowl: This allows you to easily combine marinade ingredients and coat the chicken thoroughly.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

• 1.5–2 pounds chicken (thighs, breasts, or any cut)
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lime juice or white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons oil (any kind)
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Green Sauce

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 jalapeño chiles, roughly chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime or lemon juice
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Yellow Rice

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil
• ¼ cup diced onion
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup frozen peas

How to Make Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, mix the minced garlic, lime juice (or vinegar), oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Reserve ¼ of this marinade for later use. Add your chicken to the remaining marinade. Coat well and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

You can choose between grilling and baking your chicken:

Grill Option: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill each piece of chicken for 5–7 minutes per side while brushing with reserved marinade halfway through cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF.

Oven Option: Preheat your oven to 450ºF. Place marinated chicken on a foil-lined sheet pan. Bake for about 30 minutes, brushing with marinade halfway through until the internal temperature hits 165ºF.

Step 3: Make the Rice

Start by rinsing jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear. Soak it for 10–15 minutes before draining. In a medium pot over medium heat, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in butter until soft. Add soaked rice along with turmeric, ground cumin, onion powder, salt, and black pepper; stir for about one minute. Pour in chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for about 15 minutes. Stir in frozen peas once done; cover again and let rest for another 5–10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 4: Prepare the Green Sauce

In your blender, add cilantro leaves, mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped jalapeños (seeds removed if desired), garlic cloves, olive oil, fresh lime juice (or lemon), as well as kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Blend all ingredients until you achieve a creamy consistency.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish!

On each plate, divide your fluffy yellow rice, followed by generous portions of grilled or baked chicken on top. Drizzle liberally with your homemade green sauce—enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Serve Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Serving Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a delightful experience. This dish is not only vibrant in color but also rich in flavor, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative serving ideas to elevate your meal.

Family Style

• Present the chicken and rice on a large platter for everyone to help themselves. This creates a communal and inviting atmosphere.

Individual Plates

• Serve each portion on individual plates, garnished with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for an elegant touch.

With Extra Sauce

• Drizzle additional green sauce over the chicken and rice before serving. This enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful pop of color.

Accompanied by Fresh Salad

• Pair the dish with a simple salad of mixed greens dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the meal.

Tacos

• Use leftover chicken and rice as filling for soft tacos. Add avocado slices and more green sauce for a fun twist!

As a Wrap

• Wrap the chicken and rice in a tortilla or lettuce leaf for a portable meal option. Great for lunch or picnics!

How to Perfect Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Perfecting this dish requires attention to detail, ensuring every component shines. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken for better flavor and juiciness.
• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight if possible. This enhances the flavors significantly.
• Cook Rice Properly: Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier rice.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the jalapeño quantity based on your spice preference. Remove seeds for milder heat.
• Blend Sauce Well: Ensure that the green sauce is blended until completely smooth for a creamy texture that complements the dish.
• Garnish Creatively: Finish your plate with fresh herbs or sliced avocados for added color and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Peruvian Chicken and Rice can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and sprinkled with cheese makes a delightful companion.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad tossed in lime juice adds crunch and brightness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized complement the main dish beautifully.
4. Plantain Chips: Crispy plantain chips provide crunchiness that pairs well with creamy green sauce.
5. Avocado Salad: Sliced avocado topped with sea salt offers creaminess that enhances every bite.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with tomatoes, onions, and herbs is nutritious and flavorful.
7. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans add protein while bringing depth to your meal.
8. Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed spinach or kale, drizzled with lemon, provides a nutritious contrast.

These sides will not only complement your main course but also create a colorful, satisfying meal!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken adequately can lead to bland results. Make sure to marinate the chicken well and let it sit for at least an hour.
• Bold cooking time: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165ºF without going over.
• Bold rice rinsing: Skipping the rinsing of rice may result in overly sticky grains. Rinse until the water runs clear for the best texture.
• Bold sauce blending: Failing to blend the green sauce long enough can leave it chunky. Blend until smooth for a creamy consistency that complements the dish perfectly.
• Bold resting period: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing for maximum juiciness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Enjoy within 2-3 months for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of stock if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce?

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken served over vibrant yellow rice, complemented by a creamy green sauce.

How do I make the green sauce?

Blend fresh cilantro, garlic, mayonnaise, sour cream, jalapeños, lime juice, and seasonings until smooth for a zesty green sauce.

Can I use different meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef based on your preference while still achieving delicious results.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal alongside your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce.

Final Thoughts

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is not just a delightful dish—it’s versatile too! You can customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding vegetables. This flavorful meal is perfect for weeknights and will impress any guests you serve it to. Give it a try!