There’s something magical about the aroma of Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce wafting through your kitchen. It’s like a culinary hug that wraps you in warmth, comfort, and just the right amount of spice. Imagine tender chicken nestled on a bed of fluffy rice, all drenched in a vibrant green sauce that’s bursting with fresh flavors. You can almost hear your taste buds cheering as they anticipate the deliciousness to come. For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe.
I remember the first time I tried this dish at a friend’s family gathering. The table was filled with laughter and stories, but my eyes were glued to the vibrant plates of food. One bite of that chicken and rice, smothered in green goodness, and I was hooked! This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or when you want to impress your friends at a weekend barbecue. Trust me; once you take that first forkful, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again!
Why You'll Love This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
- This amazing Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter lobster tail recipe recipe.
- Long-Grain White Rice: This fluffy rice complements the chicken perfectly and soaks up all that delicious green sauce.
- Green Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and color to the dish while enhancing its overall flavor profile.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the green sauce and gives it that signature flavor.
For the Sauce:
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice helps balance flavors with its zesty acidity.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess to the sauce while mellowing out some of the heat from other ingredients.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for richness in the sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients so you’re not running around like a headless chicken (pun totally intended). Wash and chop your vegetables; mince your garlic; measure out your rice; it’s all about that prep life!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro. Add your chicken breasts into this flavorful bath and let them marinate for at least an hour—trust me; this step is crucial for juicy goodness. crispy chicken wings.
Step 3: Cook Your Rice
Prepare your long-grain white rice according to package instructions. Usually, this means bringing water to a boil, adding rice, covering it up like it’s taking a nap, then simmering until fluffy—about 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Grill or Sear Your Chicken
While your rice is cooking away happily, fire up your grill or heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook your marinated chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You want them golden brown!
Step 5: Blend Your Green Sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro leaves (save some for garnish!), green bell pepper slices, sour cream, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth—voilà! Now you have an emerald-green masterpiece ready to drizzle.
Step 6: Assemble Your Dish
On a plate or platter (the fancier the better), serve a generous helping of rice topped with sliced chicken. Drizzle that beautiful green sauce over everything—don’t be shy! Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Now sit back as everyone marvels at your culinary prowess! This dish is not only delicious but also brings everyone together around the table—just don’t forget to share those good memories along with each bite of Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce!
You Must Know About Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
- This amazing Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While it sizzles, cook the rice in a separate pot. Prepare the green sauce simultaneously for a streamlined cooking experience. This method ensures everything is hot and fresh at serving time.
Add Your Touch to Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp if you’re feeling adventurous! Try different seasonings like smoked paprika or cumin, and add veggies like bell peppers or corn to amp up the nutrition and flavor.
Storing & Reheating Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
- Make your cooking experience smoother by following these tips that will elevate your dish while keeping things simple.
- Enjoy every bite of this delightful meal!
– Always marinate the chicken overnight if possible; this intensifies the flavors remarkably.
– Use a rice cooker for perfectly fluffy rice every time; it’s foolproof!
– Taste your green sauce before serving; adjust seasoning to suit your palate for that perfect zing.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; their faces lit up as they took their first bites! It was such a hit that I ended up making it every month since then!
FAQs About Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
What is Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce?
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a flavorful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Peru. This recipe typically features marinated chicken served over a bed of seasoned rice, complemented by a zesty green sauce made from cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, and lime juice. colorful rice bowl recipe The combination of spices gives the dish its unique aroma and taste. Many enjoy this dish for its simplicity and rich flavors, making it a popular choice in Peruvian cuisine.
How do you make the green sauce for Peruvian Chicken and Rice?
To make the green sauce for your Peruvian Chicken and Rice, blend fresh cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños according to your preference. The sauce can be drizzled over the chicken or served on the side as a dip. This vibrant green sauce not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your plate.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use brown rice instead of white rice when making Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce. Brown rice has a nuttier flavor and offers more fiber compared to white rice. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary; brown rice typically requires a longer cooking period to become tender. Adjust your water ratio accordingly to ensure proper cooking.
What sides pair well with Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce?
When serving Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce, consider pairing it with refreshing sides like a simple salad or roasted vegetables. Additionally, plantains make an excellent side dish that complements the savory flavors of the chicken. You could also serve it with avocado slices or pickled onions for added texture and taste.
Conclusion for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
In conclusion, Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is an exquisite dish that captures the essence of traditional Peruvian flavors. By combining well-marinated chicken with seasoned rice and a vibrant green sauce, you create a meal that is both delicious and satisfying. homemade salsa recipe This recipe not only highlights unique ingredients but also offers flexibility in preparation. Enjoy this delightful dish at your next family gathering or dinner party!
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Searing
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Description
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Peru. Juicy, marinated chicken rests atop fluffy rice, all enveloped in a vibrant green sauce made from fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and garlic. This captivating meal is perfect for family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering, delivering warmth and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables and mincing garlic.
- In a bowl, mix garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro. Marinate chicken for at least an hour.
- Cook rice according to package instructions until fluffy.
- Grill or sear marinated chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Blend cilantro, green bell pepper, sour cream, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth for the green sauce.
- Serve rice topped with sliced chicken and drizzle generously with green sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 125mg

