Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Easy Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe! It’s one of those dishes that fills your kitchen with such a delightful aroma, you’ll feel like you’ve just been transported straight to the vibrant streets of Peru. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and that zesty green sauce is just pure magic on a plate! Trust me, every bite is bursting with flavor, and you won’t believe how easy it is to whip up. I remember the first time I made it; I was having friends over for dinner, and I needed something that would impress without keeping me stuck in the kitchen all night. This dish was my secret weapon! Everyone loved it, and I got to enjoy the evening, too. Plus, it’s gluten-free, which is always a bonus for my friends with dietary restrictions. Seriously, if you’re looking for a comforting yet exciting meal, you’ve got to try this. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish. I always recommend measuring everything out before you start, so you can just focus on the cooking! Trust me, it makes the process so much smoother.
- 2 cups of rice: I like to use long-grain rice for that perfect fluffy texture, but feel free to use your favorite variety.
- 4 chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless works best for easy cooking and slicing. You can also use thighs if you prefer a juicier cut!
- 4 cups of chicken broth: This adds so much flavor! Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine, too.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil: This is for sautéing the onion and garlic. A good-quality olive oil will really enhance the flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped: I usually go for a yellow onion, but white works as well. Just chop it up nice and small!
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives this dish an amazing aroma and flavor. Don’t skimp on this one!
- 1 teaspoon of cumin: This spice brings a warm, earthy flavor that’s so essential to Peruvian cuisine.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your liking! I love a good sprinkle of both.
- 1 cup of cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that vibrant green sauce. Make sure to give it a good rinse!
- 1 jalapeno, seeded: This adds a nice kick! You can adjust the heat by adding more or less, depending on your taste.
- 1 lime, juiced: Fresh lime juice brightens up the sauce and adds a zesty zing.
- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise: This might sound unusual, but it gives the sauce a creamy texture that’s just divine.
How to Prepare Easy Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce Recipe
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this fantastic dish! I promise, it’s not complicated at all, and each step is packed with flavor. Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
First things first, let’s get that aroma going! Heat up your tablespoon of olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Once it’s glistening and warm, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes, or until they’re soft and fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts smelling heavenly—trust me, you won’t be able to resist!
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Now, it’s time to add the star of the show—2 cups of rice! Pour that in and stir it around for about a minute to toast it slightly. Then, pour in those 4 cups of chicken broth, followed by the teaspoon of cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover it up, and let it simmer for about 18 minutes. Just let it do its thing—don’t lift the lid, or you’ll let all that steam escape!
Step 3: Make the Green Sauce
While the rice is cooking, let’s whip up that zesty green sauce! Grab your blender and toss in the cup of fresh cilantro, your seeded jalapeno, the juice of one lime, and the 1/4 cup of mayonnaise. Blend it all together until it’s nice and smooth. You’re looking for that vibrant green color—it should be a showstopper! Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Wow, it’s going to be so good!
Step 4: Prepare the Chicken
Now onto the chicken! You can either grill or bake your 4 chicken breasts—both methods work beautifully. If grilling, get your grill nice and hot, and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s no longer pink inside. If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Just make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing; this helps keep it juicy!
Step 5: Serve the Dish
Finally, it’s time to plate up! Serve a generous scoop of that fluffy rice on a plate, then lay the sliced chicken right on top. The pièce de résistance is drizzling that beautiful green sauce over everything. You can even add a little extra cilantro on top for garnish if you’re feeling fancy. And there you have it—an Easy Peruvian Chicken and Rice dish that looks as good as it tastes!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this Easy Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce. Keep in mind, these values are approximations and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But they give you a good idea of what you’re working with!
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 30g
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a satisfying meal option. Enjoy every flavorful bite knowing you’re nourishing your body, too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you have guests over.
- Vibrant Flavors: The combination of the seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and zesty green sauce creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone wanting more!
- Gluten-Free: It’s a fantastic option for those with gluten sensitivities, so everyone can enjoy it without worry.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize this dish! Switch up the proteins or add in some veggies for a twist.
- One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. More time to enjoy your meal, less time scrubbing dishes!
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant green sauce not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on the plate. It’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Tips for Success
Alright, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your Easy Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce turns out absolutely perfect! These little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference, trust me!
- Rinse the Rice: Before you start cooking, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, helping to achieve that fluffy texture we all love!
- Don’t Lift the Lid: When your rice is simmering, resist the urge to peek! Lifting the lid lets steam escape, and we want all that moisture to stay in there for perfectly cooked rice.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Once your chicken is cooked, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender!
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re unsure about the heat from the jalapeno, start with half and taste the sauce. You can always add more if you want that extra kick!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices make a world of difference in flavor. So, if you can, opt for fresh cilantro and garlic instead of dried or powdered!
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to play around with the green sauce! Add avocado for creaminess, or toss in some lime zest for an extra zing. It’s all about what you love!
- Check Chicken Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees it’s safely cooked and super juicy!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to create a mouthwatering dish that’ll wow everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen, this Easy Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is super versatile! Here are some fun variations that you can try to mix things up:
- Spicy Twist: Add more jalapeno or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the green sauce for an extra kick. If you love heat, this one’s for you!
- Herbaceous Delight: Experiment with different herbs in the green sauce! Try adding mint or parsley along with cilantro for a unique flavor profile.
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in some diced bell peppers, peas, or corn while the rice cooks. They’ll add color, texture, and a nutritional boost!
- Different Proteins: Switch out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly!
- Coconut Rice: For a tropical twist, cook your rice in coconut milk instead of chicken broth. It adds a lovely creaminess and sweetness!
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded cheese, like queso fresco or Monterey Jack, into the rice right before serving for a melty, indulgent touch.
- Lime Zest: Add some lime zest to the rice as it cooks for an extra burst of citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the dish.
These variations can take your Peruvian chicken and rice to a whole new level, so don’t hesitate to get creative! Each twist offers a delightful new experience that you and your loved ones will enjoy. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some leftovers? Don’t worry; this Easy Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce stores beautifully! Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious for your next meal.
First things first, let the dish cool to room temperature before storing it. Once it’s cooled, you can transfer the chicken and rice into an airtight container. If you can, separate the rice and chicken from the green sauce to keep everything at its best. The sauce can be stored in a small jar or container as well.
Store the chicken and rice in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it should last for about 2-3 months. Just remember to label them with the date so you know what you’ve got!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key! For refrigerated chicken and rice, I recommend warming it up in the microwave. Just add a splash of chicken broth or water to the rice to keep it moist, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s heated through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
If you’ve frozen your portions, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to keep everything nice and moist. Just make sure to check that everything is heated evenly.
And don’t forget—when you’re ready to serve, drizzle that fresh green sauce on top to bring back that vibrant flavor! Enjoy every delicious bite, and remember, leftovers are just another way to savor this amazing dish!
Easy Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce Recipe Bliss
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Peruvian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful Peruvian chicken and rice dish served with a zesty green sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of rice
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of cilantro
- 1 jalapeno, seeded
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add rice, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes.
- While rice cooks, blend cilantro, jalapeno, lime juice, and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Grill or bake chicken until fully cooked.
- Serve chicken on a bed of rice with green sauce on top.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less jalapeno.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing.
- Rice can be prepared ahead of time and reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Easy Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce Recipe