Flavorful Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe

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The aroma of Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce wafts through the air, tantalizing your senses like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine succulent chicken, perfectly seasoned and tender, nestled atop fluffy rice that dances with vibrant colors. Each bite bursts with flavor, while the zesty green sauce adds a refreshing punch that takes your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure.

Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of family gatherings where laughter filled the room and plates were piled high. It’s a recipe that has become a staple for celebrations, cozy weeknights, or even when you just need to impress guests without breaking a sweat. The anticipation builds as you prepare this culinary masterpiece, promising an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This delicious Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The explosion of flavors will have your family begging for more
  • Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
  • Enjoy its versatility by pairing it with your favorite sides or customizing the sauce based on your taste preferences

The first time I served this at a family dinner, my cousin couldn’t stop raving about it – definitely a hit!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on your crowd size.

  • Long-Grain Rice: Fluffy rice is key; jasmine or basmati adds a wonderful aroma.

  • Fresh Cilantro: Choose vibrant green leaves for the best flavor in your green sauce.

  • Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the dish; bottled just won’t cut it.

  • Garlic: Use fresh cloves; they pack more flavor than pre-minced options.

  • Green Chili Peppers: Adjust the heat level; jalapeΓ±os are great if you want some kick.

  • Chicken Broth: For cooking rice; it adds depth and richness to every bite.

  • Olive Oil: A splash for sautΓ©ing and enhancing flavors throughout the dish.

For the Sauce:

  • Greek Yogurt: Provides creaminess; opt for plain to keep flavors balanced.

  • Cumin Powder: Adds earthiness to your sauce; don’t skip this essential spice!

  • Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning but critical for elevating all flavors in this dish.

  • Pine Nuts (optional): For an unexpected crunch in your green sauce; toast them lightly for extra flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all ingredients and chopping garlic, cilantro, and chili peppers finely. This way, everything is ready when you need it.

SautΓ© the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, place seasoned chicken breasts in the pan until golden brownβ€”about 5-7 minutes per side.

Cook the Rice: In another pot, heat chicken broth until simmering. Add rice and let it cook covered on low heat for about 15-20 minutes until fluffy.

Create Your Green Sauce: In a blender or food processor combine Greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, cumin powder, salt, pepper, and optional pine nuts. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Add Flavor to Chicken: Once chicken is cooked through (internal temp should be 165Β°F), pour half of the green sauce over it and cook for another few minutes to infuse flavors.

Plate Up: Serve fluffy rice topped with sliced chicken drizzled in remaining green sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro if desiredβ€”dig in while it’s hot!

Enjoy crafting this delightful Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce! Each step not only brings you closer to an exquisite meal but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible scent that’s bound to create lasting memories around your table.

You Must Know

  • Cooking the chicken in a hot pan ensures a crispy skin while keeping it juicy inside
  • The vibrant green sauce enhances flavors and adds a fresh zing to the dish
  • Enjoying this meal feels like a culinary trip to Peru without leaving your kitchen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour. Sear it in a hot pan, then prepare the rice while it cooks. Finally, blend the green sauce and serve together for maximum flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp if you want a twist. Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley in your green sauce for unique flavors. You can also add veggies like peas or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture and flavor. Adding a splash of broth can help revive moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Cooking chicken at room temperature ensures even cooking throughout
  • Don’t rush the marination process; let those flavors soak in!
  • If your sauce is too thick, add a bit of water or oil until smooth and delicious

Reflecting back, I remember my first attempt at making Peruvian Chicken and Rice; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They claimed it tasted like vacation on a plate, which was a huge compliment!

FAQs

FAQ

What is Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce?

It’s a flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken served over rice with vibrant green sauce.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds more fiber but requires longer cooking time.

What goes well with Peruvian Chicken?

Serve it with avocado salad or fried plantains for a complete meal experience.

Print
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Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce


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

Description

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a vibrant dish that combines succulent, seasoned chicken with fluffy rice and a zesty green sauce. This flavor-packed meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, promising an unforgettable culinary experience. With its fresh ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll impress your guests without any hassle!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 green chili peppers (jalapeΓ±os), chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 2 tbsp pine nuts (toasted) (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep ingredients by chopping garlic, cilantro, and chili peppers.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. In a separate pot, bring chicken broth to a simmer. Add rice, cover, and cook on low for about 15-20 minutes until fluffy.
  4. Blend Greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, cumin powder, salt, pepper, and optional pine nuts in a food processor until smooth.
  5. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F, pour half of the green sauce over it and cook for an additional few minutes.
  6. Serve the fluffy rice topped with sliced chicken and remaining green sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: SautΓ©ing/Blending
  • Cuisine: Peruvian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the chicken for at least an hour before cooking. Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for variations; add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra color.

Tags:

aromatic dishes / chicken and rice / Comfort food / family meals / fluffy rice / green sauce / Peruvian chicken / tender chicken

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