The aroma of marinated chicken sizzling on the grill and the vibrant hues of yellow rice wafting from the kitchen can transport you straight to the heart of Peru. My Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce captures this culinary joy in one delightful dish. Not only is this meal quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, but it also offers a crowd-pleasing experience that the whole family will love. The tender, juicy chicken pairs beautifully with fragrant rice, all topped off with a creamy green sauce that adds a refreshing zing. Ready to dive into this flavorful journey? Let’s gather our ingredients and create a dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Bursting with Flavor: The combination of marinated chicken and zesty green sauce creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Easy to Prepare: With simple cooking techniques and minimal prep work, you can whip up this dish in no time, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

Family-Friendly: This recipe appeals to all ages, ensuring everyone enjoys a hearty meal together.

One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan saves you time on cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.

Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to adjust the heat level of the sauce or substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables for a delightful vegetarian twist. Plus, if you’re a fan of hearty soups, consider checking out this Autumn Wild Rice recipe for another comforting dish!

Peruvian Chicken & Rice Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken (1.5-2 pounds) – Tender chicken thighs or breasts are ideal for juiciness; skin-on parts can be a great substitute.
Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced) – Adds aromatic flavor; use garlic powder in a pinch if fresh isn’t available.
Lime Juice or White Vinegar (2 tablespoons) – Provides acidity to balance flavors; swap with lemon juice for a different tang.
Oil (2 tablespoons, of choice) – Essential for marinating the chicken; consider olive or avocado oil for added richness.
Ground Cumin (1 tablespoon) – Adds warmth and depth; coriander is a milder alternative if desired.
Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Infuses a smoky flavor into the chicken; regular paprika is fine if smoked isn’t accessible.
Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances overall flavor; adjust based on personal preference.
Black Pepper (½ teaspoon, freshly ground) – Brings heat and flavor; feel free to substitute with white pepper if preferred.

For the Green Sauce

Fresh Cilantro Leaves (1 cup) – The key component for a fresh, herbal taste; substitute with parsley if you’re not a cilantro fan.
Mayonnaise (½ cup) – Forms the creamy base; Greek yogurt makes for a lighter alternative.
Sour Cream (¼ cup) – Adds creaminess; replace with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Jalapeño Chiles (2, chopped) – Introduces spice; remove seeds for a milder sauce or swap with a gentler pepper.
Garlic (2 cloves) – Enhances flavor; refer to substitution suggestions above.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Adds richness to the sauce; can be omitted if watching oil intake.
Fresh Lemon or Lime Juice (1 tablespoon) – Brightens the sauce’s flavor; use whichever citrus is handy.

For the Peruvian Yellow Rice

Jasmine Rice (1 cup) – The base of the dish; any long-grain rice can be substituted if necessary.
Butter/Oil (1 tablespoon) – Used for sautéing aromatics; olive oil is a healthier swap.
Onion (¼ cup, diced) – Adds sweetness and aroma; skip or substitute with shallots if needed.
Garlic (2-3 cloves) – Seeds depth in the dish; follow earlier notes for substitutions.
Turmeric (1 teaspoon) – Provides color and warmth to the rice; saffron can be used for a luxurious option if turmeric is unavailable.
Chicken Stock (2 cups) – Cooking medium for the rice; vegetable stock can serve as a vegetarian alternative.
Frozen Peas (1 cup) – Adds sweetness and color; can be replaced with corn or completely omitted.

This Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce recipe promises flavorful bites that your family will love, all wrapped up in a quick and delightful dinner experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, lime juice, oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper to create a marinade. Add the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken for tasty Peruvian Chicken & Rice.

Step 2: Preheat the Cooking Method
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F, or your oven to 450°F. If grilling, prepare your grilling grate with a light coating of oil to prevent sticking. This preheating step ensures the chicken cooks evenly, achieving a juicy texture when grilled or baked.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once marinated, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. For grilling, place each piece on the hot grate and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until charred and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Alternatively, if baking, spread the chicken on a baking sheet and cook for around 30 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Set aside to rest.

Step 4: Prepare the Yellow Rice
While the chicken cooks, rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear, then soak for 15 minutes. In a medium saucepan, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the soaked rice, turmeric, and toast for 1-2 minutes while stirring.

Step 5: Cook the Rice
Pour in 2 cups of chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes. This allow the rice to absorb all the flavors. After cooking, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas, cover again, and let sit for 5 minutes off the heat before fluffing with a fork.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Green Sauce
In a blender, combine 1 cup of fresh cilantro leaves, mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped jalapeños, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as desired. This zesty, creamy green sauce will be the perfect complement to your succulent chicken and fragrant rice.

Step 7: Serve the Dish
On each plate, start with a generous layer of the fluffy yellow rice, then top with the grilled or baked chicken. Drizzle the vibrant creamy green sauce over the chicken, and if desired, garnish with extra cilantro for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce!

Peruvian Chicken & Rice Variations

Feel free to mix it up and make this dish your own, letting your creativity shine through!

Whole Grain Swap: Use brown rice instead of jasmine for a heartier, nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Consider cooking the rice a little longer to ensure tender grains that complement the chicken perfectly.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or cubes of marinated tofu for a fresh, vegetarian-friendly version.
This choice brings an exciting texture and flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy green sauce.
Creamier Green Sauce: Mix in some ripe avocados to the green sauce for a rich twist that enhances the creamy consistency.
The avocado adds a silky texture while still keeping the vibrant flavor profile intact.
Spice it Up: For a fiery kick, toss in some diced serrano peppers in place of jalapeños, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Adjusting the heat helps cater to your family’s taste preferences and ignites the dish with an exciting punch!
Citrus Burst: Incorporate orange zest into the green sauce for an unexpected sweet and citrusy brightness that balances the flavors.
This twist adds a refreshing layer to your traditional ají verde sauce that you’ll love.
Southwestern Kick: Add a dash of chili powder and cumin to the rice for a southwest-inspired twist that adds extra depth.
Pair it with the chicken for a fusion experience that makes dinner feel exciting and new.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Stir in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds to the rice just before serving for added crunch and richness.
These nuts not only elevate the dish with a new texture but also slightly enhance the flavor with their roasted notes.
Creamy Mushroom Rice: Stir sautéed mushrooms into your rice for an earthy addition that harmonizes beautifully with the chicken.
This variation gives additional umami flavor that will have everyone at the table reaching for more!

Enjoy exploring these variations that bring new life to your beloved Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce. Don’t forget to pair it with a refreshing side, perhaps a simple salad or some delicious tortilla chips to round out your meal!

How to Store and Freeze Peruvian Chicken & Rice

Fridge: Store leftover Peruvian Chicken and Rice in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Keep the chicken and rice separate to maintain texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and rice in individual portions for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Green Sauce: The creamy ají verde sauce can be refrigerated for about 5 days. For freezing, place in an ice cube tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag for easy use later.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Enjoy every flavorful bite of your Peruvian Chicken & Rice!

What to Serve with Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Transform your dinner into a fiesta by pairing delightful sides that elevate the vibrant flavors of this dish.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: These crunchy delights are perfect for scooping up the creamy green sauce, adding an irresistible texture.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A bright mix of crisp cucumbers and tangy lime juice balances the richness of the chicken, refreshing your palate with each bite.
Zesty Black Bean Salsa: This colorful, protein-packed salsa offers a contrast of flavors and pairs well with both the chicken and rice for a complete experience.
Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn adds a satisfying crunch and a seasonal freshness that complements the deep flavors of the Peruvian chicken.
Creamy Avocado Salad: A lush salad featuring ripe avocado and tangy lime dressing enhances the dish’s creaminess while providing a luscious contrast to the robust chicken.
Mango Chutney: This sweet and spicy sauce brings a tropical flair that enhances the dish’s vibrant flavor, making each bite more intriguing.
Cold Pisco Sour: As a refreshing drink, this classic Peruvian cocktail adds a zesty kick, bridging the meal with its bright citrus and subtle sweetness, invigorating the palate.

Indulge in these pairings to create a memorable Peruvian feast that your family will adore!

Expert Tips for Peruvian Chicken & Rice

Well-Marinated Chicken: Ensure the chicken is marinated long enough, ideally overnight, for maximum flavor absorption into your delicious Peruvian Chicken & Rice.

Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches at least 165°F; this prevents undercooking and keeps it juicy.

Fluff the Rice: After cooking, let the rice rest for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork to achieve the best texture—light and fluffy for your meal.

Adjust Spice Level: Control the heat in your green sauce by adjusting the number of jalapeños; start with fewer if you’re sensitive to spice.

Prep Ahead: For easier weeknight cooking, marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce a day in advance—this will save time and boost flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These flavorful Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead for enhanced flavor. Just combine all the marinade ingredients, coat the chicken, and refrigerate. The green sauce can also be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring it stays fresh and creamy. Additionally, you can cook the yellow rice a day or two before serving and simply reheat before serving. When it’s time to eat, grill or bake the chicken, reheat the rice, and drizzle with that zesty green sauce for a delicious, effortless meal that feels just as delightful!

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for this dish?
Absolutely! For this recipe, choose chicken that is firm and pink, avoiding any that appears grey or has a foul odor. When selecting cilantro, look for vibrant green leaves without any browning or wilting. Fresh garlic should be firm and dry. Additionally, use fresh limes with a slight give when gently squeezed, indicating juiciness.

How should I store leftover Peruvian Chicken & Rice?
Store your leftover Peruvian Chicken and Rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This method preserves the texture of the chicken and rice. Keep your green sauce in a separate container; it can last for about 5 days in the fridge.

Can I freeze the Peruvian Chicken & Rice? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the chicken and rice into individual servings. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. For the green sauce, pour it into an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the cubes into a zip-top bag for easy access.

What should I do if my rice turns out sticky?
If your rice is sticky, it might have been overcooked or not rinsed enough before cooking. The next time, rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. When cooking, be mindful of the water-to-rice ratio and consider letting it rest after cooking to allow any remaining moisture to evaporate.

Is there a way to make this recipe allergy-friendly?
Very! For a gluten-free option, ensure your stock is gluten-free, and substitute any sauces for gluten-free varieties. If you have a dairy allergy, use dairy-free alternatives for the mayonnaise and sour cream, like cashew or coconut yogurt. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting jalapeños in the green sauce as well.