I have a special place in my heart for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe. This dish is not only delicious but also brings back fond memories of family gatherings and warm evenings. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a zesty green sauce makes it a favorite in my household. Today, I want to share my go-to recipe for this delightful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe
Servings: 4
Chicken Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
Rice Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt to taste
Green Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 1 jalapeño, seeds removed
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt to taste
How to Make Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe
To start, I season the chicken thighs with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. I squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken, letting the flavors soak in. After marinating for about 30 minutes, I heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken on both sides. This step locks in the flavors and gives the chicken a beautiful golden color.
Cooking the Rice
While the chicken is cooking, I prepare the rice. In a separate pot, I heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Then, I add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Next, I stir in the rice, turmeric, and salt, allowing the rice to toast slightly. This step adds a wonderful nutty flavor to the dish.
Once the rice is toasted, I pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. After that, I reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. The rice will absorb all the flavors and become fluffy.
Making the Green Sauce
The green sauce is what makes this dish stand out. I blend fresh cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, mayonnaise, lime juice, and salt in a food processor until smooth. This sauce is creamy, spicy, and tangy, perfectly complementing the chicken and rice. I love to taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Bringing It All Together
Once the chicken is cooked through and the rice is fluffy, I plate the dish. I place a generous scoop of rice on each plate and top it with a piece of chicken. Then, I drizzle the vibrant green sauce over the chicken and rice. The colors are so inviting, and the aroma is simply irresistible.
Serving Ideas for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is delicious on its own, but I often serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the chicken and rice. I also like to serve extra green sauce on the side for those who want an extra kick.
Storing Leftovers
If I have any leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken may lose some of its crispness, but the flavors continue to meld together. I find that the dish tastes even better the next day. Reheating it in the microwave or on the stovetop works well.
Why I Love Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe
There are so many reasons why I adore this Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce recipe. First, it is incredibly easy to make, even on busy weeknights. The ingredients are simple and can be found at any grocery store. Second, it is a crowd-pleaser. My family and friends always rave about the flavors and ask for seconds.
Lastly, this dish is versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spiciness of the green sauce. It is a recipe that can grow with you and your tastes.
Variations on Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe
If you want to mix things up, here are a few variations I enjoy:
- Grilled Chicken: Instead of pan-searing, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
- Vegetable Rice: Add peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the rice for added nutrition and color.
- Spicy Green Sauce: For more heat, keep the seeds in the jalapeño or add another spicy pepper.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. Chicken is a great source of protein, while rice provides carbohydrates for energy. The green sauce, packed with cilantro and jalapeño, adds vitamins and minerals. Plus, the healthy fats from the olive oil and mayonnaise help keep you satisfied.
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce has become a staple in my kitchen. It is a dish that brings comfort and joy to my family. I love sharing this recipe with others, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your home as well. The combination of flavors and textures is simply delightful.