Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Cilantro Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken and fluffy rice with a zesty cilantro-based sauce. It’s a simple yet delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken or 4 chicken pieces
- 2 cups rice
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water or broth for cooking
Instructions
- Step 1: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large pot or skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same pot, add the rice and enough water or broth to cook it according to package instructions. Cook until the rice is tender and fluffy.
- Step 3: While the chicken and rice cook, prepare the green sauce by blending the cilantro, garlic, lime juice, salt, and a little water until smooth.
- Step 4: Serve the chicken over the rice and drizzle generously with the green sauce. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat or chicken breast for a leaner option.
- Add a jalapeño or green chili to the sauce for extra heat.
- Cook the rice with some garlic or onion for added flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist. The green sauce can be stored separately for up to 2 days.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of whole chicken?
Yes, chicken breast works well if you prefer a leaner cut. Just be careful not to overcook it to keep it tender.
How spicy is the green sauce?
The green sauce is typically mild and fresh, but you can add chili peppers if you like it spicier.
PrintPeruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Cilantro Sauce Recipe
This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a vibrant and delicious dish featuring tender, juicy chicken paired with fluffy rice and topped with a zesty, creamy cilantro garlic lime green sauce. Perfect for a wholesome and flavorful meal that brings a taste of Peru to your home kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Green Sauce
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 1 small jalapeño or green chili (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons water (to thin sauce, if needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Rice: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a deep skillet or large pan, heat a little oil over medium-high heat and brown the chicken on both sides until golden, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Rice: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the rice, stirring to coat the grains. Then add 4 cups water or chicken broth, return the chicken thighs to the pan, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Make the Green Sauce: While the chicken and rice cook, combine cilantro, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and jalapeño (if using) in a blender. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach a creamy but pourable consistency.
- Serve: Plate the cooked chicken and rice, then drizzle generously with the green sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use chicken broth instead of water for more flavor in the rice.
- The green sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Adjust the jalapeño quantity to control the heat level of the sauce.
- For a gluten-free meal, ensure your broth is gluten-free.
- To make this recipe halal, use halal-certified chicken.
Keywords: Peruvian chicken, cilantro lime sauce, green sauce, chicken and rice, Latin American cuisine
