Name: Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce for Flavor Lovers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless Chicken Breasts or Thighs (Use thighs for extra juiciness.); 2 cups Jasmine or Basmati Rice (These fragrant options pair beautifully and cook quickly.); 1 cup Fresh Cilantro (Can mix with parsley for a unique flavor twist.); 1 piece Jalapeño (Adjust the heat to your preference.); 3 tablespoons Lime Juice (Fresh lime juice brings vibrant acidity.); 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Choose high-quality olive oil for best flavor.); 1 cup Vegetables (e.g., Bell Peppers or Corn) (Add colorful veggies for extra nutrition.); 1 cup Quinoa (Swap out rice for quinoa for a nutty flavor.)

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It’s amazing how a handful of ingredients can transport you to faraway places—like Peru, with its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce brings a whirlwind of flavor right to your dinner table, transforming an ordinary weeknight meal into an exotic experience. As someone who craves homemade food yet often jockeys between busy schedules, this recipe is my secret weapon; it’s quick, gluten-free, and immensely satisfying. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with fragrant rice, all brought to life by a zesty green sauce that you’ll want to drizzle on everything. So why not take a little culinary adventure tonight? Your taste buds will thank you! What secret flavors are you excited to explore this week?

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What makes this recipe a must-try?

Simplicity at its Core: With just a handful of ingredients, this Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce can be whipped up even on the busiest weeknights.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and a touch of heat from jalapeños creates a vibrant sauce that elevates the dish to new heights.

Cultural Experience: Enjoy a taste of Peru from your kitchen, giving your family a chance to explore global flavors without leaving their seats.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap rice for quinoa or add colorful vegetables for extra nutrition and visual appeal, adapting the meal to your dietary needs.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and bold tastes.

Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s ideal for those who crave homemade meals without the hassle. Don’t forget to check out my other weeknight favorites like Caribbean Chicken Rice for more inspiration!

Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce Ingredients

• You’ll love how easy it is to gather these flavorful ingredients!

For the Chicken

Boneless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Use thighs for extra juiciness in your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce.

For the Rice

Jasmine or Basmati Rice – These fragrant options pair beautifully and cook quickly for this easy weeknight dinner.

For the Green Sauce

Fresh Cilantro – This herb adds freshness; you can mix it with parsley for a unique flavor twist.
Jalapeño – Adjust the heat to your preference; seed it for milder spice or keep the seeds for a punchy kick.
Lime Juice – Fresh lime juice brings vibrant acidity; bottled juice won’t provide the same zing!
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Choose high-quality olive oil to enrich the green sauce with depth of flavor.

Optional Add-Ins

Vegetables (e.g., Bell Peppers or Corn) – Add colorful veggies for extra nutrition and texture, making the dish even more exciting!
Quinoa – Swap out rice for quinoa to keep it gluten-free while adding a nutty flavor and extra protein.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine boneless chicken breasts or thighs with your favorite spices, a splash of lime juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix well to ensure every piece is coated. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, letting the flavors infuse deeply while you prepare the rest of the meal.

Step 2: Cook the Rice
Begin cooking jasmine or basmati rice according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves rinsing the rice under cold water, then boiling it in a pot with water or broth. Cover it and simmer on low for about 15-20 minutes until fluffy and tender. This allows your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce to come together beautifully.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the marinated chicken into the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The aroma will be delightful and signals that your chicken is ready!

Step 4: Blend the Green Sauce
While the chicken cooks, prepare the zesty green sauce. In a food processor, combine fresh cilantro, a jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat, if desired), lime juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and well-combined. The vibrant color will brighten your dish, adding that punchy flavor essential for your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce.

Step 5: Plate the Dish
Once everything is cooked and ready, fluff the rice with a fork and spoon it onto serving plates. Place the seared chicken on top of the rice, ensuring it’s juicy and inviting. The layering of flavors will elevate your dining experience with this delightful dish, creating a beautiful presentation that captures attention.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Drizzle the freshly blended green sauce over the chicken and rice, allowing it to cascade down for an enticing look. If desired, garnish with additional cilantro leaves for a touch of freshness and color. Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors of your homemade Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce while the dish is hot and aromatic.

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What to Serve with Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Expand your culinary experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement this vibrant dish.

Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. It adds crunch and balances the meal’s flavors beautifully.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring smoky warmth, enhancing the dish’s texture and adding nutrition.
Sweet Plantains: Fried or baked plantains provide a sweet contrast, creating a wonderful balance with the zesty green sauce.
Corn Salsa: This bright, flavorful salsa of corn, tomatoes, and cilantro adds sweetness and bright colors, making each bite exciting.
Black Beans: Rich in protein, seasoned black beans create a hearty side that pairs well with the chicken’s zestiness, making the meal more filling.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, dry white wine enhances the dish’s acidity and freshness, transforming your dinner into a restaurant-quality experience.
Lime Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lime sorbet cleanses the palate, echoing the dish’s zesty flavors and offering a sweet ending.

Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce Variations

Feel free to mix things up and tailor this recipe to your liking—you’ll discover delightful twists along the way!

Quinoa Swap: Replace rice with quinoa for an extra protein boost; it’s gluten-free and adds a delightful nuttiness.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in bell peppers, corn, or peas for added color and texture, making this a truly vibrant dish.
Tofu Alternative: For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with marinated tofu; it soaks up flavors beautifully and complements the green sauce perfectly.
Cilantro-Free: Don’t like cilantro? Use parsley instead for a fresh yet different flavor that still brings brightness to the sauce.
Creamy Sauce: Blend a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the green sauce for an extra creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
Heat Levels: Adjust the jalapeño amount, or even add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for those who crave an extra kick in their meal.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint in the sauce; they can provide exciting new flavors while maintaining the freshness.
Citrus Twist: Swap lime juice for lemon or even orange juice for a different citrus twist that still complements the dish beautifully.

For more culinary inspiration, check out my Savory Chicken Flatbread or indulge in the bold flavors of Honey Glazed Salmon—the possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead Options

These Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce are perfect for meal prepping, making your busy weeknights much smoother! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply, which keeps it incredibly juicy. Additionally, the green sauce can be blended ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enhance its vibrant flavor. Just remember to give it a good stir before using! When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated chicken and rice as instructed, and drizzle the prepared green sauce over the top for a delicious, hassle-free meal that’s just as satisfying as if made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: If you want to save some for later, this dish can be frozen. Portion it out in freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months for best flavor.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to keep the rice fluffy.

Green Sauce Storage: The green sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a day or frozen in ice cube trays for easy use later!

Expert Tips for Peruvian Chicken and Rice

Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid dryness and ensures proper cooking for your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce.

Marinate Longer: If time permits, marinate the chicken for 2 hours or overnight for even deeper flavor infusion.

Blend Ingredients Well: For a creamy green sauce, blend the cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and olive oil until completely smooth, preventing any chunky texture.

Cook Rice Properly: Adjust the cooking time based on the type of rice used, ensuring it’s perfectly fluffy for the best base for your dish.

Keep it Fresh: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but add the green sauce just before serving for maximum flavor and freshness.

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Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for this dish?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for boneless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving if overcooked, making them a great choice for your Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce. Look for chicken that’s pink in color with little to no dark spots. Freshness is key!

How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, but hold off on adding the green sauce until ready to serve for that fresh taste!

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can! For best results, portion out the Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce into freezer-safe containers, and keep them frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to keep the rice fluffy.

What if I have leftover green sauce? How do I store it?
Great question! You can store any leftover green sauce in the fridge for up to a day. For longer storage, freeze it in ice cube trays; this way, you can pop out small portions whenever you crave that zesty flavor in future meals!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, if you or someone you’re serving has allergies, keep in mind that cilantro and jalapeños can cause reactions for some. You can always substitute cilantro with parsley or omit the jalapeños for a milder flavor—everyone can enjoy this delicious Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce!

What should I look for when cooking rice?
Very important! To ensure your jasmine or basmati rice is cooked perfectly, rinse it under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps prevent stickiness. Follow package instructions thoughtfully. Typically, a ratio of 1 cup of rice to 1.5 cups of water will result in light, fluffy rice!