Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a vibrant dish that brings the flavors of Peru right to your table. This meal is perfect for family gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or special occasions. With its juicy, marinated chicken and aromatic rice topped with a creamy green sauce, it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can have this delicious meal ready in just under an hour.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering with friends.
• Healthful Ingredients: Packed with protein and vegetables, this recipe offers a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful meal, having the right tools makes all the difference. Prepare your kitchen with these essential items before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or oven
• Mixing bowls
• Blender
• Pot with lid
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or oven: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly, ensuring a juicy result.
• Blender: Makes preparing the creamy green sauce quick and easy.
• Pot with lid: Helps cook the rice perfectly by trapping steam for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the 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 of choice
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Green Sauce

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 whole jalapeño chiles (roughly chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Rice

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 tbsp butter/oil
• ¼ cup onion (diced)
• 2-3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1/4 tsp EACH cumin, onion powder, salt, pepper
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup frozen peas

How to Make Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Step 1: Marinate Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients except for ¼ of the mixture which should be reserved. Coat the chicken thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat Your Cooking Method

When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 450ºF. If serving with rice, this is also a great time to start preparing it.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

To Grill Chicken:
* Grill each piece for about 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165ºF). Brush with reserved marinade halfway through grilling.

To Bake Chicken:
* Arrange chicken on a foil-lined sheet pan. Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until fully cooked through. Brush with reserved marinade halfway through baking.

Step 4: Prepare the Rice

Rinse jasmine rice until water runs clear. Soak for 10–15 minutes before draining. In a pot, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in butter until softened. Add rice along with seasonings; stir for one minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken stock and bring to boil. Reduce heat to low, cover pot, and cook for 15 minutes. Stir in frozen peas afterward; cover again and let rest for another 5–10 minutes before fluffing.

Step 5: Make the Green Sauce

In a blender, add all green sauce ingredients. Pulse until creamy (about 30 seconds). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

On serving plates, place a generous portion of rice followed by grilled chicken on top. Drizzle with homemade green sauce before enjoying!

How to Serve Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Serving Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a delightful experience that combines flavor with visual appeal. This dish can be served in various ways to enhance your dining occasion.

Elegant Plating

• Use a large platter to arrange the rice, chicken, and drizzle the green sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an appealing presentation.

Individual Bowls

• Serve the chicken and rice in individual bowls for a cozy, casual dining experience. This is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Tacos or Wraps

• Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in warm tortillas with rice and green sauce for a fun taco night twist.

Salad Base

• Create a refreshing salad by serving the chicken and rice over a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with green sauce for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Achieving the perfect Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce involves attention to detail in both marinating and cooking methods.

• Marinate Wisely: Allow your chicken to marinate overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will enhance the overall taste; opt for fresh garlic, cilantro, and lime juice when possible.
• Cook Rice Properly: Rinse your rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy grains.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF for safe consumption.
• Balance Flavors: Taste your green sauce before serving and adjust salt or acid as needed for balance.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy when you slice it.

Best Side Dishes for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Complementing your meal with delicious side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus lightly seasoned and grilled until tender.
2. Black Beans: Simple seasoned black beans add protein and fiber, making them an excellent companion to the chicken dish.
3. Avocado Salad: A fresh salad made with ripe avocados, tomatoes, red onion, and lime dressing brings creaminess that pairs well.
4. Corn Salad: Sweet corn mixed with cherry tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and diced jalapeños adds sweetness and crunch.
5. Plantain Chips: Crispy plantain chips provide a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy green sauce beautifully.
6. Cucumber Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cucumbers, carrots, vinegar, and cilantro offers a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the main dish.
7. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic provides a nutritious option that balances out heavier elements on the plate.
8. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes deliver heartiness while offering crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinate the chicken for at least one hour or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
• Ignoring rice rinsing: Always rinse your rice until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming gummy.
• Overcooking chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165ºF. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough meat.
• Skipping the reserved marinade: Brush the chicken with reserved marinade while cooking for added flavor. This step enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Neglecting seasoning in rice: Don’t forget to season the rice properly while cooking. Adding spices and aromatics enhances its flavor profile significantly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to prevent drying out.

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 seasoned rice, topped with a creamy green sauce made from fresh herbs.

Can I substitute chicken with other meats?

Yes, you can use beef, turkey, or lamb as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make the green sauce?

To make the green sauce, blend cilantro leaves, mayonnaise, sour cream, jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until creamy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce stores well and can be prepared ahead of time for easy meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a deliciously versatile meal that impresses at any dinner table. Its rich flavors can be customized by adding different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Give it a try today!