Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Experience the vibrant flavors of Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, a dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe not only satisfies hunger but also offers a delightful culinary adventure. The tender, marinated chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, while the zesty green sauce adds an explosion of flavor that will transport your taste buds straight to Peru.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich and satisfying taste experience.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this recipe can be made in under an hour, making it accessible for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, this dish suits various occasions while pleasing everyone at the table.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh herbs, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Customizable: Adjust the heat or swap out ingredients to suit your preferences without losing the essence of the dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all necessary tools to streamline your process. Having everything ready ensures a smooth experience while preparing Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Blender
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken, ensuring a delicious golden crust.
• Blender: Perfect for creating a smooth green sauce that enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
• Saucepan: Essential for cooking the rice properly, allowing it to absorb all the flavors from the broth.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for cooking)

For the Rice

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

For the Green Sauce

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 green chili peppers, seeds removed (adjust for heat)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, cumin powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, and olive oil. Coat each chicken breast thoroughly in this mixture. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and sear them until they are golden brown on both sides—approximately 6 to 7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Rinse long-grain rice under cold water until it runs clear. In a saucepan, combine rinsed rice and low-sodium chicken broth. Bring it to a boil before reducing it to simmer until cooked through—about 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Green Sauce

In your blender, combine cilantro leaves, green chili peppers, lime juice (add more if desired), and olive oil. Blend until smooth to create your zesty green sauce that will complement your chicken perfectly.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once cooked, slice your chicken into strips. Serve over fluffy rice and drizzle generously with the vibrant green sauce. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor!

Enjoy your homemade Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, an unforgettable meal that brings joy to every table!

How to Serve Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Serving Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that can be enjoyed in various delightful ways.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves on top to enhance the dish’s vibrant flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick that complements the chicken.

Pair with Crunchy Vegetables

• Sliced Avocado: The creaminess of avocado balances the spiciness of the green sauce.
• Radish Slices: Add thinly sliced radishes for a crunchy texture and refreshing taste.

Accompany with Traditional Peruvian Items

• Plantains: Fried or baked plantains add a sweet touch that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.
• Corn Salad: A light corn salad provides a crisp, refreshing element to the meal.

How to Perfect Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

To make your Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce truly remarkable, consider these tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Bold Marinade: Ensure chicken is marinated longer for deeper flavors. Overnight marination is ideal if time allows.
• Perfectly Cooked Rice: Use low-sodium chicken broth instead of water for cooking rice to infuse it with more flavor.
• Smooth Green Sauce: Blend the green sauce until it’s completely smooth; this enhances its texture and makes it easy to drizzle.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat level by adding more chili peppers or using milder varieties if desired.
• Serve Warm: Present everything warm for the best taste and experience; reheat leftovers gently if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Complementing your meal with delightful side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. Here’s a list of great accompaniments to serve alongside this flavorful main dish.

1. Peruvian Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad made with mayonnaise and herbs adds richness.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast and are easy to prepare.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables provides a healthy, nutty side option.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus adds a nice crunch and pairs well with the chicken.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic gives a nutritious boost to your plate.
6. Choclo (Peruvian Corn): Large kernel corn served simply adds authenticity and sweetness to the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland flavor. Take the time to let it soak in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Using Incorrect Rice: Choosing the wrong type of rice may affect the texture. Stick with long-grain rice for optimal fluffiness and cooking consistency.
• Neglecting to Rinse Rice: Failing to rinse rice can lead to a gummy texture. Rinse until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: A green sauce that’s too thick or thin can impact your dish. Adjust with lime juice or olive oil until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within three days for best flavor and safety.
• Keep chicken separate from rice if possible, to maintain texture.

Freezing Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Ensure all air is removed from bags before sealing.
• Best consumed within three months for optimal taste.

Reheating Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and cover your dish with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes) until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce?

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken served over fluffy rice and topped with a vibrant green sauce made from cilantro and chili peppers.

How do I make the green sauce for Peruvian Chicken & Rice?

The green sauce is made by blending fresh cilantro leaves, green chili peppers, lime juice, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust ingredients based on your spice preference!

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap cilantro for parsley, add bell peppers for extra flavor, or make it spicier by including jalapeños or hot sauce in the green sauce.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total preparation and cooking time is about 55 minutes. This includes 30 minutes of marinating time.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator and freezer, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience brimming with flavor and cultural richness. This versatile recipe allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste preferences, ensuring each bite is delightful. Don’t hesitate—try this dish today and bring some vibrant Peruvian flair to your table!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant tastes of Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, a dish that offers a delightful culinary experience perfect for any occasion. Tender, marinated chicken is seared to perfection and served over fluffy rice, all topped with a zesty green sauce that adds a burst of flavor reminiscent of Peru’s rich culinary heritage. This dish is not only satisfying but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With its nutrient-rich ingredients and customizable options, you’re sure to please everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves fresh garlic
• 2 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 green chili peppers (seeds removed)

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken by mixing minced garlic, cumin, paprika, lime juice, and olive oil in a bowl. Coat each breast and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken until golden brown on both sides (6-7 minutes each side), ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear. In a saucepan, cook the rice with low-sodium chicken broth until tender (15-20 minutes).
4. Prepare the green sauce by blending cilantro, green chili peppers, lime juice, and olive oil until smooth.
5. Serve sliced chicken over rice and drizzle with green sauce.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing and boiling
• Cuisine: Peruvian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 475
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 85mg