Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of perfectly seasoned chicken filling your home, and that’s exactly what you’ll experience with this recipe. Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce is a delightful fusion of flavors that comes together in about an hour, and the crispy chicken paired with creamy green sauce makes every bite a celebration. This dish not only looks impressive but also delivers on taste, making it a wonderful choice for gatherings or cozy meals at home.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to spice up their dinner rotation with something unique and delicious. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family dinner, this dish will impress. You can also prepare the green sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days, making meal prep easier than ever.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy chicken skin that’s bursting with flavor.
• Aromatic jasmine or basmati rice that’s fluffy and light.
• A bright, creamy green sauce that adds a fresh kick.
• A one-skillet meal that minimizes cleanup and effort.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this fantastic dish:

For the Chicken

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Rice

• 1½ cups jasmine rice (basmati works beautifully too)
• 2¼ cups chicken broth
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp butter
• ½ tsp salt

For the Green Sauce

• 4-5 jalapeño peppers, stems removed
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup queso fresco (or feta cheese)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste

Use sour cream for a richer green sauce.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can be swapped for breasts.
• Jasmine rice may be replaced with brown rice.
• Cilantro can be omitted for a different flavor.
• Jalapeños can be replaced with green bell peppers for mildness.

How to Make It

Here’s how to create this delicious dish step by step.

1. Season and Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Mix cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl, then rub this aromatic blend all over the chicken, getting under the skin where possible. Let the seasoned chicken rest at room temperature while you prepare other components.

2. Make the Green Sauce

Add jalapeños to a food processor and pulse until roughly chopped. The seeds add heat, so remove them for a milder sauce. Add cilantro, mayonnaise, cheese, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil. Process until smooth and vibrant green, scraping sides as needed. Taste and adjust with salt and additional lime juice. This sauce should be creamy yet pourable.

3. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken skin-side down and resist the urge to move them. Listen for that satisfying sizzle – it means you’re building flavor. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin releases easily and turns golden brown. Flip and sear another 3 minutes.

4. Finish the Chicken in Oven

Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The skin should be crispy and the meat incredibly tender. Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

5. Prepare the Cilantro-Lime Rice

While chicken cooks, rinse jasmine rice until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil, add rice, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for 18 minutes without lifting the lid. Remove from heat and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then fold in cilantro, lime juice, butter, and salt.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave on low for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Let the chicken rest at room temperature for even cooking.
• Don’t skip the resting time after roasting; it enhances juiciness.
• Adjust jalapeños based on your heat preference.
• Make the green sauce a day in advance for flavor development.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of black beans for a hearty meal.
• Pair with crispy tortilla chips for an appetizer.
• Enjoy with a light salad to balance the flavors.