As I stood in the kitchen, the enticing aroma of marinated chicken wafted through the air, transporting me straight to the vibrant streets of Peru. This recipe for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that combines succulent chicken with aromatic, seasoned rice topped with a creamy green sauce. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish is incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for any home chef looking to break free from the fast-food grind. Not only will it impress your family with its delightful taste, but it’s also gluten-free and satisfies the cravings for something hearty yet healthy. Trust me, once you taste this magical dish, your dinner routine will never be the same. Are you ready to elevate your weeknight meals?

Why is this Peruvian Chicken & Rice a Must-Try?

Easy Preparation: This recipe simplifies dinner with a straightforward process that even novice cooks can master.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of marinated chicken and zesty green sauce delivers an unforgettable punch to your taste buds.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with your favorite sides, like a fresh salad or roasted veggies, for a complete meal that can adapt to any preference.

Meal Prepping Friendly: Prepare the chicken, rice, and green sauce ahead of time for effortless weeknight meals—just warm and serve!

Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table, resonating with the love for homemade food.

If you’re looking for more delicious chicken ideas, check out my recipes for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos or Cheesy Chicken Garlic Wraps to keep your menu fresh and exciting!

Peruvian Chicken & Rice Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken – 1.5-2 pounds of thighs or breasts work well; boneless thighs will enhance the flavor.
• Garlic – 2-3 cloves, minced; it boosts the marinade’s taste, but garlic powder is an alternative if needed.
• Lime Juice – 2 tablespoons or white vinegar; it brightens the dish, and lemon juice can be a flavorful substitute.
• Oil – 2 tablespoons (like olive oil) for both the marinade and cooking; it helps achieve a nice sear.
• Ground Cumin – 1 tablespoon for warmth; coriander can stand in if you’re out of cumin.
• Smoked Paprika – 1 teaspoon for that smoky depth; regular paprika is acceptable if you prefer a milder taste.
• Kosher Salt – 1 teaspoon; essential for seasoning, so adjust to your preference.
• Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon, ideally freshly ground for the best flavor.

For the Green Sauce
• Cilantro – 1 cup of fresh leaves adds core flavor; feel free to reduce quantity if you’re not a fan.
• Mayonnaise – ½ cup for a creamy base, or swap it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
• Sour Cream – ¼ cup adds a nice tang; you can use all mayonnaise or Greek yogurt if preferred.
• Jalapeño Chiles – 2 whole, chopped for heat; remove seeds if you’d like milder spice levels.
• Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon for richness; it balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Lemon/Lime Juice – 1 tablespoon brightens the flavors; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
• Salt and Black Pepper – to taste for the perfect seasoning of your sauce.

For the Peruvian Yellow Rice
• Jasmine Rice – 1 cup, the main carbohydrate source; substitute with long-grain white rice if necessary.
• Butter/Oil – 1 tablespoon for sautéing, adding richness to the rice.
• Onion – ¼ cup, diced; use shallots for a milder flavor if you prefer.
• Garlic – 2-3 cloves, minced, for enhanced flavor in the rice.
• Turmeric – 1 teaspoon for color; it can be omitted without affecting the taste.
• Seasonings – ¼ teaspoon each of cumin, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to amp up the flavor.
• Chicken Stock – 2 cups for cooking the rice; it infuses rich flavor into each grain.

This easy-to-follow ingredients list will have you on your way to creating a delightful Peruvian Chicken and Rice that is both satisfying and comforting!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peruvian Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine chicken with minced garlic, lime juice, oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the chicken is fully coated, then cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in delicious Peruvian Chicken & Rice when cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or the oven to 450°F. Once hot, grill the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, checking for a golden-brown exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F. If baking, arrange the chicken on a baking sheet, brush with reserved marinade, and bake for about 30 minutes, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice
Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. Soak the rinsed rice briefly, then drain. In a medium saucepan, add butter over medium heat and sauté diced onion and minced garlic until soft and translucent. Stir in the rice and spices, cooking for 1 minute to toast the grains gently before adding 2 cups of chicken stock and bringing the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Cook the Rice
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy. After cooking, mix in a handful of peas for added color and nutrition, then fluff the rice with a fork and set aside while preparing the green sauce.

Step 5: Make the Green Sauce
In a blender, combine cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped jalapeños, olive oil, lime or lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, tasting to adjust seasoning as needed. This vibrant green sauce will bring a fresh flavor to your Peruvian Chicken & Rice, enhancing the entire dish beautifully.

Step 6: Serve the Dish
To plate, scoop a generous amount of the seasoned rice onto each plate, then place the grilled chicken on top. Drizzle the creamy green sauce generously over the chicken for a burst of flavor. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired, and enjoy your delicious Peruvian Chicken & Rice, a culinary delight that’s perfect for any occasion!

Make Ahead Options

These Peruvian Chicken and Rice components are perfect for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to streamline weeknight dinners! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator to preserve its flavor and moisture. Prepare the rice a day before serving; simply cook and refrigerate in an airtight container. The creamy green sauce can also be made up to 3 days ahead—store it in the fridge to maintain its freshness and vibrancy. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the rice and chicken separately, then drizzle the green sauce on top for a delicious, hassle-free meal that tastes just as good as if it were freshly made!

Peruvian Chicken & Rice Variations

Feel free to put your personal twist on this dish and explore different flavors and textures!

Fish Swap: Replace the chicken with firm fish like cod or salmon for a lighter alternative. This variation can give a delightful oceanic flair.
Brown Rice: Use brown rice instead of jasmine for a heartier, more nutritious option. It adds a wholesome nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the green sauce.
Herb Swaps: Substitute cilantro with parsley or dill in the green sauce for a fresh perspective on the flavor profile. It’s a simple change that can surprise your taste buds!
Veggie Boost: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or peas into the rice for added nutrition and color. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also amps up the healthiness of your meal.
Extra Spice: If you like a kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the green sauce or using spicier jalapeños. This will elevate the heat level and satisfy those who crave spice.
Creamy Yogurt Twist: Swap out half of the mayonnaise in the green sauce for Greek yogurt. It lightens the sauce while maintaining creaminess and boosts the dish with probiotics.
Lime Rice: Infuse the jasmine rice with lime zest as it cooks for an extra tangy twist. This flavor enhancement will harmonize beautifully with the overall dish.
Nutty Profile: Top your plated dish with toasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for a delightful crunch. This provides an exciting textural contrast against the tender chicken and rice.

These variations will keep your Peruvian Chicken & Rice exciting and tailored to your meals! If you’re looking for more chicken inspiration, you might also enjoy our recipes for Saucy Chicken Rice or Rotisserie Chicken Mushroom Soup.

What to Serve with Peruvian Chicken and Rice?

Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that add color, flavor, and texture to your meal.

Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp, vibrant salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette will refresh your palate and balance the richness of the chicken.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, lightly seasoned and grilled, complement the smoky notes in the chicken and add a nice charred flavor.
Cilantro Lime Rice: For those who can’t get enough of that zesty taste, serve a side of cilantro lime rice to mirror the flavors in the main dish while introducing a new texture.
Black Beans: Hearty and protein-packed, seasoned black beans are perfect for enhancing the dish’s flavor profile while offering a satisfying element to the meal.
Tropical Fruit Salsa: Brighten up your plate with a sweet and tangy salsa made from mango, pineapple, and lime; it beautifully contrasts and complements the savory chicken.
Chilled Cucumber Soup: This refreshing, light soup can serve as a palate cleanser between bites, offering a cooling sensation alongside the spices in your dish.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A light, bubbly drink enhances the dining experience, cutting through the richness of the chicken while echoing the lime notes present in the dish.

Explore these pairings to create a well-rounded spread that will leave everyone at the table satisfied and craving more!

Expert Tips for Peruvian Chicken & Rice

Marinate Longer: Ensure maximum flavor by marinating the chicken overnight; this enhances the taste and juiciness.

Grilling Technique: Brush the marinated chicken while grilling or baking to keep it moist and add depth to the flavor.

Essential Rice Rinsing: Rinse jasmine rice thoroughly until the water runs clear; this helps achieve fluffy, non-sticky grains in your Peruvian Chicken & Rice.

Flavor Adjustments: Taste your green sauce after blending and adjust the seasoning to suit your palate—this will elevate the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients if needed; for instance, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter sauce.

How to Store and Freeze Peruvian Chicken & Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Keep the chicken and green sauce separate to maintain their texture and flavor.

Freezer: To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Warm the chicken in the oven and the rice in the microwave for best results. Drizzle with fresh green sauce right before serving to revitalize the flavors.

Meal Prep: Prepare individual components ahead of time and store them separately. This way, you’ll have convenient, homemade Peruvian Chicken & Rice ready to heat and enjoy on busy evenings.

Peruvian Chicken & Rice Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless chicken thighs as they provide more flavor and juiciness compared to chicken breasts. However, if you prefer breasts due to dietary preferences, they can work just fine.

How should I store leftovers?
Very simple! Once your Peruvian Chicken & Rice has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. It’s best to keep the chicken and green sauce separate to retain their flavors and textures.

Can I freeze the chicken and rice?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the chicken and rice to cool completely. Portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Why is my rice not fluffy?
If your rice comes out sticky, you may not have rinsed it enough before cooking. Rinsing until the water runs clear removes excess starch, which helps achieve that fluffy texture. Make sure to also respect the cooking times and water-to-rice ratio for perfect results!

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, indeed! This Peruvian Chicken & Rice is naturally gluten-free as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients. Just ensure that any stock or condiments used are marked gluten-free if you have sensitivities. Enjoy freely!

What if I don’t like cilantro?
No worries! If cilantro isn’t your favorite, you can swap it out for parsley or dill in the green sauce. Each herb will give the sauce a different flavor profile, but it will still be delicious. The more the merrier when it comes to personalizing your dish!