Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce

There’s something magical about how Peruvians transform humble chicken and rice into a symphony of flavors. This Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce is perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. The tender, perfectly seasoned chicken is harmoniously paired with fluffy cilantro-lime rice and topped with the famous green sauce. This dish captures the essence of Peru’s culinary pride, making it truly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of spices and the unique green sauce makes each bite a flavor explosion.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can create a gourmet meal at home without breaking a sweat.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests at parties, this dish fits any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh herbs, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the green sauce in advance, saving time on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make your cooking experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Food processor
• Medium saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly seared chicken skin.
• Food processor: Effortlessly blends the ingredients for a smooth and creamy green sauce.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking rice to fluffy perfection without sticking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice

• 1½ cups jasmine rice (basmati works beautifully too)
• 2¼ cups chicken broth
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Green Sauce

• 4-5 jalapeño peppers, stems removed
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup queso fresco (or feta cheese)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

How to Make Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce

Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures crispy skin. Mix cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this aromatic blend all over the chicken, getting under the skin where possible. Let the seasoned chicken rest at room temperature while you prepare other components.

Step 2: Make the Green Sauce

Add jalapeños to a food processor and pulse until roughly chopped. Remove seeds for a milder sauce if desired. Add cilantro, mayonnaise, cheese, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil. Process until smooth and vibrant green, scraping sides as needed. Taste and adjust with salt or additional lime juice as needed; aim for a creamy yet pourable consistency.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken skin-side down and resist moving them around. Sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown; flip and sear another 3 minutes.

Step 4: Finish the Chicken in Oven

Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. The skin should be crispy and meat incredibly tender. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Prepare the Cilantro-Lime Rice

While chicken cooks, rinse jasmine rice until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil; add rice then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18 minutes without lifting lid. Remove from heat; let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with fork then fold in cilantro, lime juice, butter, and salt.

Now you’re ready to serve! Enjoy your flavorful Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce!

How to Serve Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce

Serving Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce is not just about placing the dish on the table; it’s about creating an experience. The vibrant colors and flavors of this dish can be complemented by thoughtful serving suggestions that enhance the meal.

Family-Style Platter

• Serve the chicken thighs and rice on a large platter for a communal dining experience, allowing everyone to help themselves to generous portions.

Individual Bowls

• For a more personalized touch, serve each portion in individual bowls. This presentation highlights the beauty of the green sauce drizzled over the chicken and rice.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley on top of each serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra burst of freshness.

Accompany with Lime Wedges

• Provide lime wedges alongside each plate. A squeeze of lime over the dish brightens the flavors and adds a tangy kick.

Pair with Extra Green Sauce

• Serve additional green sauce on the side for those who want more heat and creaminess. This allows guests to customize their experience according to their preferences.

How to Perfect Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce

Perfecting your Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is restaurant-quality.

• Use Bone-In Thighs: This cut retains moisture better during cooking, ensuring tender, juicy chicken.
• Pat Dry for Crispiness: Drying the chicken skin before seasoning helps achieve that coveted crispy texture.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings in both the chicken and green sauce based on your preference for spice and flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making every bite succulent.
• Fluff Rice Properly: Use a fork to fluff your rice gently. This prevents it from becoming mushy and keeps each grain separate.
• Experiment with Heat Levels: Adjust jalapeños in the green sauce according to your desired spice level – remove seeds for less heat.

Best Side Dishes for Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement the main dish beautifully.

1. Grilled Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled until charred adds a smoky flavor that balances well with the chicken.

2. Avocado Salad
   A refreshing salad made with ripe avocados, tomatoes, red onion, and lime dressing offers creamy richness alongside the spicy green sauce.

3. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn grilled or boiled brings a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs nicely with savory flavors of chicken and rice.

4. Black Beans
   A hearty serving of black beans seasoned with garlic and cumin provides protein and complements the dish’s flavor profile excellently.

5. Plantain Chips
   Crispy fried plantain chips serve as a crunchy contrast while adding a hint of sweetness that balances spiciness from the green sauce.

6. Cucumber Slaw
   A light cucumber slaw dressed in lime vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness, making it a perfect palate cleanser between bites of rich chicken.

7. Quinoa Salad
   A zesty quinoa salad mixed with chopped vegetables offers a nutty flavor that harmonizes well without overpowering other elements on your plate.

8. Roasted Potatoes
   Seasoned roasted potatoes provide heartiness and soak up any extra sauce left behind on the plate, making them irresistible!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not drying the chicken thoroughly can prevent a crispy skin. Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Rinsing Rice Incorrectly: Failing to rinse rice until the water is clear can result in gummy texture. Rinse thoroughly to remove excess starch.
• Not Adjusting Sauce Seasoning: Neglecting to taste and adjust the green sauce may lead to blandness. Always taste and tweak for salt and acidity.
• Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into chicken immediately after cooking can make it lose juices. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the chicken is cooled before placing it in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy identification later.

Reheating Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short increments, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth and heat over low heat, stirring frequently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce?

Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce is a flavorful dish combining seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and a spicy green sauce made from cilantro and jalapeños.

How do I make the green sauce?

The green sauce is made by blending jalapeños, cilantro, mayonnaise, cheese, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Can I use other types of rice?

Yes! While jasmine rice is preferred for its flavor, you can also use basmati or any long-grain rice you enjoy.

Is Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce spicy?

The spiciness depends on how many jalapeños you use. For less heat, remove the seeds or use fewer jalapeños.

Final Thoughts

Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce is not only delicious but versatile too. This dish allows room for creativity; feel free to customize your protein or adjust spice levels according to your preference. Enjoy this culinary delight that brings a taste of Peru right to your table!

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Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Peru right to your dining table. This recipe features tender chicken thighs, perfectly seasoned and paired with fluffy cilantro-lime rice, all topped with a creamy, spicy green sauce that elevates each bite. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, this dish combines bold flavors with simplicity, making it an easy gourmet meal to prepare at home. The freshness of herbs and zesty lime juice creates a delightful balance, ensuring every serving is not just a meal but a culinary experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ cups jasmine rice (basmati works beautifully too)
• 2¼ cups chicken broth
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4–5 jalapeño peppers, stems removed
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with a mix of cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear the chicken in olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides.
4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Meanwhile, prepare the cilantro-lime rice by cooking rinsed jasmine rice in chicken broth, then fluffing it with butter, cilantro, lime juice, and salt once done.
6. For the green sauce, blend jalapeños, cilantro, mayonnaise, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth.
7. Serve the chicken over the rice and drizzle generously with green sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Searing
• Cuisine: Peruvian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 135mg