As the sun begins to set and the golden light filters into my kitchen, there’s an undeniable warmth that fills the air—a prelude to something delicious. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, a vibrant dish that effortlessly transforms a weeknight into something special. The moment you marinate the chicken with zesty lime juice, fragrant garlic, and fresh cilantro, you’re already guaranteed a flavor explosion that will leave you wondering why you ever relied on takeout.
While this recipe may look gourmet, it’s surprisingly simple, making it an ideal choice for anyone tired of the fast-food grind yet craving something satisfying and homemade. With a perfectly fluffy jasmine rice base and a vibrant green sauce that’s bursting with freshness, this meal is not just a feast for your eyes but also a culinary escape into the heart of Peru. So grab your ingredients, and let’s bring a taste of adventure back to your dinner table!
Why You'll Love This Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The bold flavors of marinated chicken and zesty green sauce create a delicious blend that will tantalize your taste buds and leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides or enjoyed on its own, this dish can easily adapt to your dining preferences.
- With its stunning presentation, your plate will be as delightful to look at as it is to eat, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Peruvian Chicken & Rice Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – choose fresh for a juicy texture that absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Fresh garlic – minced for the best aroma, enhancing the chicken’s taste throughout the marinade.
• Low-sodium soy sauce – adding depth and umami without overpowering the dish.
• Freshly squeezed lime juice – brightens the marinade, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• Fresh cilantro leaves – brings a fragrant, herbal note that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
For the Rice
• Long-grain jasmine rice – its fluffy texture pairs wonderfully with the chicken and green sauce.
• Low-sodium chicken broth – infusing rice with savory flavor, creating a comforting base.
For the Green Sauce
• Green bell pepper – adds a slight sweetness and vibrant color to your green sauce, making it visually appealing.
• Salt – enhances the overall flavor profile; adjust to your preference for the best taste experience.
With these fresh ingredients, you’re just moments away from an unforgettable dining experience with Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce!
How to Make Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce
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Gather ingredients.
Start by gathering all your fresh ingredients. You’ll need chicken, garlic, rice, broth, cilantro, soy sauce, lime juice, and a green bell pepper. A well-organized kitchen makes cooking a joy! -
Marinate chicken.
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro. Place the chicken breasts into the mixture and let marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to infuse. -
Prepare the rice.
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Toast the rinsed rice in a pot over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then, add chicken broth, bring to a boil, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until fluffy. -
Sear the chicken.
Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that beautiful golden brown color and a juicy interior—check with a meat thermometer if needed! -
Make the green sauce.
In a blender, combine cilantro, green bell pepper, garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and vibrant. This sauce is what brings a refreshing zing to your dish! -
Serve and enjoy.
Slice the seared chicken and serve it over a bed of fluffy rice. Drizzle that luscious green sauce on top, and you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Peruvian delight!
Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce?
Transform your meal into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings that enhance every bite.
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Crispy Roasted Vegetables: A medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots adds a satisfying crunch while complementing the vibrant green sauce’s flavors.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery slices infused with garlic create a comforting side that balances the zesty notes of the chicken and rice.
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Fresh Avocado Salad: Creamy avocados tossed with cherry tomatoes and lime vinaigrette bring a refreshing temperature contrast that brightens the dish.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with herbs and spices offers an earthy depth, enhancing the overall complexity of your meal while remaining gluten-free.
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Spicy Black Beans: Rich in protein and bold in flavor, they pack a punch of spice that contrasts beautifully with the herby green sauce, creating a delightful balance.
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Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy, this chutney provides a tropical flair that heightens the dish’s exotic appeal, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
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Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the meal with its refreshing acidity, perfectly offsetting the richness of the chicken.
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Lime Sorbet: For dessert, a light and zesty sorbet cleanses the palate, leaving you feeling refreshed after a hearty meal.
Storage Tips for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce
Fridge: Store any leftover Peruvian Chicken & Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while preventing the rice from drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze the chicken and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until thoroughly heated, and add a splash of chicken broth to the rice to bring back its fluffiness.
Green Sauce Storage: Store any leftover green sauce in a jar in the fridge for up to 1 week, but fresh is always best for that zesty kick!
Make Ahead Options
These Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce are absolutely perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, and cilantro mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the green sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, make sure to refrigerate the chicken properly and seal the sauce in an airtight container. When it’s time to serve, simply sear the marinated chicken and cook the jasmine rice as instructed. You’ll have a vibrant and flavorful meal ready in no time—perfect for those busy weeknights!
Peruvian Chicken & Rice Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that transform your Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce into something uniquely yours!
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Spicy Upgrade: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili powder to the marinade for a fiery kick that ignites your taste buds.
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Herb Fusion: Substitute cilantro with fresh parsley or mint for a different herby layer of flavor that keeps things interesting in the green sauce.
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Rice Alternatives: Swap jasmine rice with quinoa or brown rice for added nutrition and a nutty flavor profile that complements the chicken beautifully.
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Veggie Boost: Sauté a mix of colorful vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or corn along with the chicken for a hearty addition that brightens your plate.
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Creamy Sauce: Blend in a dollop of creamy avocado or Greek yogurt into the green sauce for a richer, creamier texture that balances out the citrus.
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Lime Zing: Infuse the chicken marinade with additional citrus by adding orange or lemon juice for a tropical twist that enhances the overall brightness.
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Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top just before serving to give your dish an unexpected crunch and a delightful depth of flavor.
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One-Pot Wonder: For a convenient meal, cook the chicken directly in the pot with the rice, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully in every bite.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, ensure that you marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to fully absorb the flavors of the marinade.
- Be careful not to overcook the rice; it should be light and fluffy, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Using fresh ingredients, especially cilantro and garlic, will elevate the taste of your green sauce significantly.
- Searing the chicken at the right temperature helps achieve a perfect golden crust—adjust your heat if necessary to prevent burning.
Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting your chicken, look for breasts that are firm and plump without any discoloration. For the green bell pepper, it should be vibrant green without any soft spots or wrinkles. Fresh garlic should have tight, unblemished skins, while cilantro should be bright and fragrant; avoid any bunches that are wilted or turning yellow.
How should I store leftover Peruvian Chicken & Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken moist, you can splash a little chicken broth over the chicken before sealing the container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop until warmed through.
Can I freeze Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce?
Certainly! To freeze, separate the chicken and rice into airtight containers or freezer bags and label them with the date. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. For reheating, warm the chicken in a skillet and microwave the rice until hot.
What should I do if my chicken is dry after cooking?
If your chicken ends up dry, it could be due to overcooking or not allowing it to rest after cooking. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s around 165°F (75°C). If it is dry, try to slice it thinly and serve it covered with the green sauce, which adds moisture and flavor!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This dish is generally gluten-free but double-check your soy sauce for any gluten content if needed. For those allergic to cilantro, feel free to substitute it with parsley or omit it entirely; a little lemon juice can add brightness instead. Always ensure to adjust ingredients according to your dietary needs!
How can I keep the green sauce vibrant and fresh when storing?
To keep your green sauce looking and tasting great, store it in a tightly sealed container in the fridge. Use it within a week for the best freshness. If you notice it starts to change color, that’s a sign it’s past its prime! A good tip is to drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing to help preserve its color.
Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather ingredients. Begin by assembling all the ingredients on your countertop. You’ll need chicken, rice, garlic, cilantro, soy sauce, lime, and bell pepper to create a flavorful dish.
- Marinate the chicken. In a mixing bowl, blend together soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, and fresh cilantro. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
- Prepare the rice. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, toast the rice over medium heat for a few minutes. Stir in the chicken broth, bring it to a boil, then cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and tender.
- Sear the chicken. Heat a drizzle of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken for about 5 minutes on each side, until it's beautifully golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the green sauce. In a blender, combine cilantro, chopped green bell pepper, garlic, lime juice, and salt. Blend until smooth and vibrant, creating a luscious green sauce to drizzle over the chicken.
- Serve and enjoy. Slice the chicken and serve it over the fluffy rice, then generously drizzle the green sauce on top. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!
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