If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Peru to your dinner table, then Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is an absolute must-try. This recipe combines succulent chicken marinated in a blend of spices and herbs, served over fluffy rice and topped with a zesty green sauce that packs a punch of flavor. Perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels. chicken poke bowl recipe With the bright notes from cilantro and lime in the sauce contrasting beautifully against the tender chicken and rice, it’s sure to be a hit at any occasion. In less than an hour, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to dive into this culinary adventure that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Peru!

Why You’ll Love This Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

one pot lemon pasta.

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

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

• 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
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an authentic taste to the green sauce; opt for vibrant green leaves without yellowing
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances flavor; avoid bottled versions for best results
• Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal; cook according to package instructions for perfect texture

For the Sauce:

• Mayonnaise: Adds creamy texture to the green sauce; use regular or light depending on preference
• Sour Cream: Provides additional creaminess; opt for full-fat sour cream for richer flavor

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

this recipe

How to Make Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Rinse one cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until it runs clear. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine rinsed rice with two cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until water is absorbed.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill or pan-sear each breast for about six minutes per side until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

Step 4: Prepare the Green Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, remaining cilantro leaves, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Serve

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and place on plates. Slice grilled chicken on top of rice and drizzle generously with green sauce.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight

How to Serve Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

This Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in advance. Allow it to soak in the marinade for at least two hours or overnight in the refrigerator. The rice can also be pre-cooked and stored for up to three days.
• Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and rice separately for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. For rice, you can microwave it with a splash of water covered with a damp paper towel for about two minutes.

Suggestions for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Clear mistakes to avoid when cooking Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

One common mistake is not marinating the chicken long enough. Marination is crucial for infusing flavor into the chicken. Ideally, let it sit in the marinade for at least two hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the spices and herbs to penetrate the meat fully, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken. Skipping this step can lead to bland results. Always plan ahead to give your chicken ample time to absorb those delicious green sauce qualities.

Clear mistakes to avoid when preparing the green sauce

Another frequent error occurs when making the green sauce. Many people overblend or underblend their ingredients. A smooth consistency is essential, but it should still have some texture for that fresh taste. Blend until everything is combined, but don’t go too far or you’ll lose that vibrant character of each component. Adjusting the seasoning at this stage is also vital; taste and tweak before serving. Remember, a well-balanced green sauce elevates your Peruvian Chicken & Rice.

Clear mistakes to avoid with rice cooking techniques

Improper rice cooking can ruin your dish’s overall quality. First, use the right ratio of water to rice – typically 2: 1 for white rice. Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming gummy. Additionally, let the rice rest after cooking; this helps it firm up and makes it fluffier. Avoid lifting the lid too often while cooking; this releases steam and can lead to unevenly cooked grains.

Clear mistakes to avoid when serving Peruvian Chicken & Rice

Presentation matters! Don’t just dump everything onto a plate unceremoniously. Arrange your Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce thoughtfully. Use garnishes like cilantro or lime wedges for a pop of color and freshness. A well-presented dish not only looks appealing but also enhances the dining experience, making your meal memorable for family and guests alike.

FAQs

What is Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce?

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a delightful dish originating from Peru, featuring marinated chicken served over seasoned rice and topped with a vibrant green sauce made from cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, and lime juice. The combination offers a unique blend of flavors that highlights Peru’s rich culinary heritage. This dish is not only flavorful but also bursting with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal any day of the week.

How do I store leftovers of Peruvian Chicken & Rice?

To properly store leftovers of Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, allow them to cool down at room temperature first before placing them in airtight containers. Both components can be stored separately or together based on preference. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within three days for optimal freshness and safety. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers; they can last up to three months in the freezer.

Can I make Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce ahead of time is convenient for meal planning or gatherings. You can marinate chicken a day prior and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Cooked rice can be prepared earlier as well; just reheat gently before serving alongside fresh chicken. The green sauce can also be made in advance; keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week while maintaining its vibrant flavor.

What are some variations of Peruvian Chicken & Rice?

There are numerous ways to customize Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce based on personal preferences or dietary needs. For example, you can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option while keeping the same flavorful marinade and sauce intact. You might also experiment by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or peas into the rice during cooking, enhancing its nutritional value while providing additional textures and flavors that complement the primary components beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this Mexican chicken marinade recipe.

Conclusion for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

In conclusion, making Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce involves careful attention to detail throughout various stages—from marinating chicken effectively to ensuring your green sauce has just the right texture and flavor balance. Avoiding common mistakes will significantly enhance your dish’s overall quality while offering an authentic taste experience reflective of Peru’s culinary traditions. slow cooker curry ramen With thoughtful presentation and proper storage techniques for leftovers, you’ll create not just a meal but a memorable dining experience that friends and family will love! Enjoy experimenting with this delicious recipe today!

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Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru with this delicious dish featuring marinated chicken served over fluffy rice, drizzled with a zesty green sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Get ready for a culinary adventure that will leave your guests asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix minced garlic, lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly; marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Rinse rice under cold water until clear. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine rinsed rice with 2 cups of water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until water is absorbed.
3. Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade; grill or pan-sear each breast for about six minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. In a blender, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, remaining cilantro leaves, lime juice, salt, and pepper; blend until smooth.
5. Fluff cooked rice and plate it; slice grilled chicken on top and drizzle generously with green sauce.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling/Pan-searing
• Cuisine: Peruvian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
• Calories: 580
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Customize the green sauce by adding jalapeños for extra heat or adjusting seasoning to taste. Serve with fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.