Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is an amazing dish that brings vibrant flavors and comforting textures right to your table. This delightful meal features juicy, marinated chicken served over a bed of fluffy rice, complemented by a zesty green sauce that elevates the whole experience. It melds traditional Peruvian seasonings with simple preparation, making it an essential recipe for both seasoned cooks and culinary novices alike.

If you’ve never tasted Peruvian Chicken & Rice, you’re in for a treat. The chicken, marinated in a blend of spices and herbs, is succulent and bursting with flavor. The rice serves as the perfect base, absorbing the delicious juices from the chicken along with the tangy sauce. This meal can transport you to the lively streets of Peru with every bite, leaving you wanting more!

Join me in exploring why this dish is so lovable, how to prepare it, and practical tips on serving it. Whether you plan to impress your family or enjoy a cozy dinner at home, Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce will make any occasion feel special!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce takes about 50 minutes in total. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes

These times may vary based on your preparation speed and kitchen equipment, but this estimate will guide your cooking process effectively.

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lime juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce can be a straightforward process if you follow these steps:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine garlic, cumin, paprika, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

1. Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the rice has absorbed all the broth and is fluffy.

1. Prepare the Green Sauce: In a blender, combine jalapeño, cilantro, parsley, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs, cooking for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let them rest.

1. Plate the Rice: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it among plates or a serving platter.

1. Slice the Chicken: Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thick pieces and arrange it over the rice.

1. Drizzle with Sauce: Generously drizzle the vibrant green sauce over the chicken and rice. Serve extra green sauce on the side for guests.

How to Serve

To maximize the enjoyment of your Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, consider these serving tips:

1. Garnish Options: Add fresh lime wedges or extra chopped herbs for garnish, enhancing both flavor and aesthetics.
2. Accompaniments: Serve with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the meal.
3. Serving Style: Present the dish family-style on a large platter for a communal dining experience.
4. Beverage Pairing: Serve with a light Peruvian beverage, such as chicha morada, or a refreshing lemonade.

By incorporating these elements, you ensure a delightful dining experience that highlights the wonderful flavors of this incredible dish!

Additional Tips

• Marinate Longer: For even more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance the taste significantly. Try to use them instead of dried for optimal flavor.
• Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer milder flavors, use less jalapeño or remove the seeds entirely. Conversely, add an extra pepper for more heat.
• Rice Variations: Experiment with different types of rice, such as jasmine or basmati, to complement the dish in unique ways.
• Cook Chicken in Oven: For a slightly different texture, bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.

Recipe Variations

If you want to try something different, consider these variations of Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce:

1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or seitan for a vegetarian-friendly dish that still retains great flavor.
2. Seafood Twist: Use shrimp instead of chicken, marinating and sautéing them in a similar fashion. This makes for a light and refreshing meal.
3. Coconut Rice: For a creamier texture, cook the rice in coconut milk. This adds a sweet and fragrant depth to the dish.
4. Add Beans: Mix in black beans or chickpeas into the rice for added protein and a heartier meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: After cooking, let the chicken and rice cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to four days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Portion the chicken and rice separately into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or water while reheating to maintain moisture.

Special Equipment

Consider having these essential tools on hand for making Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce:

• Blender or Food Processor: For making the smooth green sauce.
• Marinating Container: A resealable bag or a glass dish works great for marinating the chicken.
• Saucepan: Needed for cooking the rice effectively.
• Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking for your chicken.
• Meat Thermometer: Useful for checking the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s safely cooked.

Conclusion

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is more than just a meal; it's a delightful culinary journey that brings the flavors of Peru to your kitchen. With its juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant sauce, this dish promises to satisfy both the palate and the heart. Whether for a family dinner or a celebratory feast, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Dive into the rich, bold flavors and create memories with every serving.