Name: Peruvian Chicken & Rice With Green Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Yield: 4
Ingredients: - 2 pounds chicken; - ground cumin; - smoked paprika; - salt; - freshly ground black pepper; - oil; - lime juice; - freshly minced garlic; - cilantro; - mayonnaise; - sour cream; - jalapeños; - garlic; - fresh lemon or lime juice; - jasmine rice; - shallot (or onion); - garlic; - butter/oil; - frozen peas; - turmeric; - onion powder; - salt; - pepper; - chicken stock

Stepping into the world of Peruvian cuisine is like opening a vibrant tapestry of flavors, where each dish tells a story as rich as its ingredients. Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, or “Arroz con Pollo y Salsa Verde,” is a savory delight that transforms everyday chicken and rice into a culinary adventure. This dish is a perfect blend of savory spices and fresh herbs, making it an irresistible choice for a cozy dinner that promises both comfort and excitement.

I remember the first time I savored this dish at a bustling Lima street market. The aroma of cilantro and garlic filled the air as a vendor served me a steaming plate, the chicken tender and the rice bursting with flavor. Each bite was a revelation, reminding me of the warmth of a home-cooked meal in an extraordinary place.

Tracing the roots of Peru’s beloved dish

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, or “Pollo a la Brasa,” is more than just a dish; it’s a delicious journey through Peru’s vibrant culinary history. Originally influenced by Chinese immigrants, this recipe combines marinated chicken with spicy, fragrant rice. The star, however, is the vibrant green sauce, a blend of cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice, that adds a zesty kick. Over the years, this dish has evolved with regional variations, but its heart remains the same—a celebration of fusion flavors and shared tables.

What brings Peruvian flavors to life?

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a symphony of flavors, colors, and textures. Each ingredient brings its own flair to the table, making this dish truly unforgettable. Let’s dive into what makes each component shine and how they come together to create a delicious masterpiece.

Chicken: The main attraction! It’s succulent and juicy, absorbing all those lovely spices. If chicken isn’t your thing, turkey could be a fun alternative. Always choose fresh, organic cuts for the best flavor and tenderness. Plus, it’s a great source of protein. 🍗
Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and a touch of earthiness, giving the dish that authentic Peruvian vibe. No cumin? Coriander can come to the rescue, though the flavor will shift slightly. Look for bright, fragrant spice for the freshest taste. Packed with antioxidants too! 🌿
Smoked Paprika: Brings a smoky depth, balancing the other spices beautifully. If you’re out, regular paprika with a dash of liquid smoke works in a pinch. Always go for the vibrant red kind, which is fresher and has a more robust flavor. It’s a vitamin A powerhouse! 🔥
Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: The dynamic duo enhancing all flavors. If you’re watching sodium, sea salt offers a milder option, and freshly cracked pepper gives the best punch. Both are pantry staples that elevate any dish in a heartbeat. ⚖️
Oil: Helps in marinating and cooking the chicken to perfection. Olive oil is a reliable choice, but grapeseed oil brings a neutral taste. Opt for extra virgin for its pure quality and heart-healthy fats. 🫒
Lime Juice: Adds a zesty brightness, cutting through the richness. Lemon can easily step in if needed. Freshly squeezed is always best, lending a natural tang and a boost of vitamin C. 🍋
Freshly Minced Garlic: Infuses a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Garlic powder works if you’re in a bind, though fresh packs a stronger punch. Always choose firm, plump bulbs for the richest flavor. Garlic’s known for its immune-boosting properties too! 🧄
Cilantro: Offers a fresh, herbal note that pairs beautifully with the spices. Parsley is a decent substitute if cilantro’s not your favorite. Go for bright green, fragrant bunches—full of antioxidants and vitamins. 🌱
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These two make the green sauce creamy and luscious. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a healthier twist. Opt for full-fat versions for the richest texture. They add a delightful creaminess, balancing the sauce perfectly. 🥛
Jalapeños: Bring a gentle heat to the sauce, making it lively. If you prefer mild, remove seeds or use a milder pepper like poblano. Fresh jalapeños are best, firm and vibrant green, adding a kick of vitamin C. 🌶️
Fresh Lemon or Lime Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy zing to the sauce. Either works well, so use what’s on hand. Freshly squeezed juice imparts the most vibrant flavor. 🍈
Jasmine Rice: The fluffy base with a subtle floral aroma. Basmati is a close second if you need a swap. Rinse well before cooking to achieve that perfect fluffiness. Jasmine rice is an excellent carbohydrate source, keeping you energized. 🍚
Shallot (or Onion): Provides sweetness and depth to the rice. Red or yellow onions can step in if needed. Look for firm, unblemished bulbs. Shallots are lower in calories but high in vitamins A, B, and C. 🧅
Butter/Oil: Used to sauté the aromatics, enhancing their flavors. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil does wonders. Choose unsalted butter for control over seasoning and a richer taste. 🧈
Frozen Peas: Add a pop of color and a sweet touch. Fresh peas can be used when in season. Opt for bright green, firm peas, full of vitamins and fiber. They’re tiny but mighty! 🌿
Turmeric: Lends a lovely golden hue and earthy flavor to the rice. Saffron can be an extravagant alternative. Always go for a vibrant yellow-orange powder for its freshness. Turmeric’s famed for its anti-inflammatory properties. 🧡
Onion Powder: Adds a subtle boost of flavor to the rice. Garlic powder can be a quick fix if you’re out. Make sure it’s fresh and lump-free for the best taste. Onion powder is a fantastic seasoning staple. 🧂
Chicken Stock: Imparts a rich, savory depth to the rice, tying everything together. Vegetable broth works if you’re going vegetarian. Look for low-sodium stocks to control salt levels while keeping flavor intact. 🥣

Creating this Peruvian delight is an adventure for your taste buds, bringing together the best of flavors for an unforgettable meal.

Must-haves for a Peruvian culinary adventure🍽️

Having the right tools in your kitchen can make any cooking adventure smooth and enjoyable. Here are a few essentials that can transform your culinary efforts:

Chef’s Knife: A versatile tool for chopping, slicing, and dicing. Choose one with a comfortable grip and a sharp blade. If you’re on a budget, a well-maintained, sharp paring knife can also do wonders for smaller tasks.
Cutting Board: A must-have for prepping ingredients. Opt for a sturdy wooden version to protect knife blades and prevent slipping. Plastic boards work well too, especially for raw meats, as they are easy to sanitize.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in cooking, especially in baking. For liquid ingredients, a glass measuring cup with a spout is handy, while dry ingredients benefit from leveled measuring cups.
Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients. If you’re short on space, stackable stainless steel bowls save room and are durable. Glass bowls are microwave safe, allowing for more versatile use.
Blender or Food Processor: Perfect for sauces and purees. A blender is great for liquids, while a food processor excels at chopping and mixing thicker textures. A simple hand blender can be a compact, budget-friendly alternative.

Equipping your kitchen with these tools is like setting the stage for your culinary performances, ensuring each dish is a success without any unnecessary stress.

How to make it: Peruvian chicken & rice👩‍🍳

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Gather all your marinade ingredients—cumin, smoked paprika, salt, freshly ground black pepper, oil, lime juice, and freshly minced garlic. Mix them in a medium bowl until well combined. Don’t forget to reserve about a quarter of this mixture for later; you’ll need it to brush onto the chicken as it cooks. Toss in the chicken pieces, ensuring they’re all covered in the marinade goodness. Pop this in the fridge for at least an hour to let those flavors meld together. If you have time, let it marinate overnight for even more flavor depth.
Step 2: Heat Things Up
When you’re ready to cook, decide on your method—grilling or baking. If grilling, get your grill to a medium-high heat. For baking, preheat your oven to a toasty 450ºF. Here’s a tip: If you’re planning to serve this with rice, this is a good moment to start that process as well, so everything finishes around the same time.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Pop the marinated chicken onto the grill. Let each side cook for 5-7 minutes—though this might vary depending on how thick the pieces are. A safe bet is to use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 165ºF. Halfway through grilling, grab that reserved marinade and give the chicken a good brush to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
For those who prefer baking, lay the marinated chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet. Slide it into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes. Just like with the grill, aim for an internal temp of 165ºF. Give it a brush of the reserved marinade halfway through to keep it juicy and full of flavor.
Step 5: Cook the Rice
Start by washing the jasmine rice until the water runs clear—this helps remove excess starch. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes, then drain. In a pot, sauté some shallots and garlic in butter until they’re soft and aromatic. Add the rice and your choice of seasoning—turmeric, onion powder, salt, and pepper—and sauté for a minute to toast the rice a bit. Pour in the chicken stock, bring it to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat. Let it simmer on low for 15 minutes. Toss in the frozen peas right at the end, cover again, and let it sit for another 5-10 minutes. Fluff it with a fork and you’re good to go!
Step 6: Whip Up the Green Sauce
In a blender, combine all the sauce ingredients—cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, jalapeños, garlic, and a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. The sauce should be vibrant and a little spicy—perfect for drizzling over the chicken and rice.
Step 7: Bring It All Together
To serve, spoon the fragrant rice onto your plates, lay the grilled or baked chicken on top, and finish with a generous drizzle of the green sauce. Take a moment to admire your culinary creation before digging in. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Mix it up with your own twist!

For a gluten-free twist, try replacing jasmine rice with quinoa. The fluffy grains soak up the spices beautifully, giving the dish a delightful nutty undertone. If you’re leaning towards a vegan option, swap the chicken for marinated tofu and replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo in the green sauce—it’s just as creamy and satisfying. During fall, why not toss in roasted butternut squash instead of peas? Its sweetness mingles well with the spice-rich marinade. For a Mediterranean flair, consider adding olives and feta cheese to the rice, which unexpectedly complements the zesty green sauce.

Ways to serve your vibrant Peruvian feast!

Imagine your table is a stage, and your Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is the star of the show. For plating, go for wide, shallow bowls to let the vibrant colors steal the spotlight. A neat mound of golden rice can hold court in the center, with succulent chicken pieces artfully arranged around it. Drizzle the green sauce with a flourish, letting it cascade like a culinary waterfall.

Garnishes? Think fresh cilantro sprigs or thinly sliced red onions for a pop of color. As for sidekicks, a simple cucumber salad or roasted corn adds a refreshing crunch. Voilà! A meal that’s both a feast for the eyes and a delight for the taste buds.

What’s the perfect sip with Peruvian chicken?

Whenever I whip up some Peruvian Chicken & Rice with that delightful green sauce, I like to sip on a refreshing, chilled glass of limeade. There’s just something about the tangy zing that dances alongside the rich spices of the dish, making each bite feel like a mini fiesta. If I’m feeling a bit more adventurous, a sparkling cucumber mint cooler does the trick. It’s bubbly, it’s crisp, and it’s like a little vacation for my taste buds. Let’s just say, my fridge is never short on these two sidekicks!

Keeping leftovers fresh: how to store and reheat?

To keep your Peruvian chicken and rice dish fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll be good for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat the chicken and rice on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent drying out. If you’re using a microwave, cover the dish to retain moisture. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. As for the zingy green sauce, it stays vibrant for about a week in the fridge. Keep food safety in mind by avoiding leaving the dish out at room temperature for more than two hours.

Avoid these common mistakes 🖐️

Ah, the journey of cooking can be a fun one, but we’ve all had a few missteps along the way!

One common blunder with this recipe is not allowing the chicken enough time to marinate. It might be tempting to rush, but giving it at least an hour (or overnight, if you can) truly infuses those vibrant spices into the meat, making a world of difference.

Overcooking the chicken is another pitfall. Keep a trusty meat thermometer on hand to hit that sweet spot of 165ºF for juicy perfection.

When it comes to rice, remember not to skip rinsing it. This little trick ensures fluffiness by washing away excess starch. Also, forgetting to add the peas at the right time can lead to chilly surprises! Toss them in while the rice is resting to keep them warm and delightful.

For the green sauce, blending too aggressively can sometimes lead to a bitter taste if the cilantro stems are pulverized. A gentle pulse is all you need for that creamy texture.

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be dishing out plates of Peruvian chicken and rice that will leave everyone craving more!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
While you can use any cut of chicken you like, bone-in, skin-on pieces like thighs or drumsticks tend to be more flavorful and juicy. However, boneless chicken breasts work well too if you prefer leaner meat.
Can I make the green sauce less spicy?
Absolutely! To tone down the heat, simply reduce the number of jalapeños. You can even remove the seeds and membranes, as that’s where most of the heat resides.
Is there an alternative for jasmine rice?
Yes, you can substitute jasmine rice with basmati rice or any other long-grain rice you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Ideally, marinate the chicken for at least one hour to allow the flavors to penetrate. If you have more time, overnight marination in the fridge will intensify the taste even more.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the chicken and rice a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the oven. The green sauce is best made fresh, but it can be kept for a day or two, sealed tightly in the refrigerator.

Bringing it all together with Peruvian flair!🎉

So there you have it, a delightful Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce that’s just begging to be shared at your next dinner gathering. This dish is as flexible as your favorite pair of jeans, so why not tweak it to suit your palate? Maybe a little extra lime juice or a sprinkle of your favorite spice? Don’t be shy—make it your own! Dive in, get creative, and embrace each savory bite. After all, cooking is all about experimenting and discovering new flavors. Happy cooking, my friend!