Flavorful Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe

Name: Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 cup long-grain basmati rice; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 1 green chili pepper (mild or hot, seeded); 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for cooking); ¼ cup sour cream (optional)

Recipe By:

Melisa Egan

Posted:

October 23, 2025

Updated:

October 23, 2025

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The aroma of Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce fills the air, transporting you to a vibrant kitchen bustling with life. Picture tender chicken marinated in zesty spices, perfectly paired with fluffy rice that absorbs all the delightful flavors. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience waiting to unfold.

As I take my first bite, I’m reminded of family gatherings where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the delicious green sauce drizzled over everything. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, this dish brings everyone together around the table, promising smiles and happy bellies.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation means you can whip this up on busy nights without breaking a sweat.
Bursting with flavor, this dish satisfies both adventurous eaters and picky palates alike.
Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal.
Perfect for meal prep or serving at a gathering, it’s versatile enough to please any crowd.

This dish always gets my family’s seal of approval—who could resist those mouthwatering flavors?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts, adjusting based on your hungry crew.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for maximum flavor impact.
Ground Cumin: Adds an earthy warmth; opt for fresh spices for the best results.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best; it brightens and enhances the chicken’s flavor.
Long-Grain Rice: I prefer basmati for its fluffy texture and subtle nuttiness.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant touch; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
Green Chili Pepper: Choose mild or hot depending on your spice tolerance; it adds delightful heat.
Olive Oil: For sautéing and marinating; extra virgin is great for added richness.
Sour Cream: Optional, but a dollop on top provides creamy contrast to the spiciness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

How to Make Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, ground cumin, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat thoroughly. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes or longer for deeper flavor.

Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add marinated chicken breasts. Cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side—releasing mouthwatering aromas.

Prepare the Rice: In another pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Stir in long-grain rice along with a pinch of salt. Cover tightly and reduce heat to low; simmer until rice is fluffy—about 15-20 minutes.

Create the Green Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro leaves, green chili pepper (seeded), garlic cloves, sour cream (if using), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth; taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Combine Everything Together: Fluff the rice with a fork once cooked. Plate the rice generously before placing sliced chicken on top. Drizzle that irresistible green sauce over everything like you’re an artist creating a masterpiece.

Enjoying this dish will be like taking your taste buds on an adventure! Each bite delivers layers of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Content

Choose the right rice for a fluffy texture; jasmine or basmati work great. I learned this after one too many soggy dinners.

Marinate the chicken for at least an hour to intensify flavors; trust me, it’s worth the wait. My first attempt was flavorless—never again!

Sauté onions and garlic until golden before adding other ingredients; this develops a rich aroma that’ll make your kitchen smell divine. It’s a game-changer!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken, then sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Cook the rice separately while the chicken is roasting for best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap plain yogurt for Greek yogurt in the green sauce for added creaminess. You can also add veggies like peas or bell peppers to the rice.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat to retain moisture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs in your green sauce for vibrant flavor; dried herbs just won’t cut it.
Letting your chicken rest post-cooking ensures juiciness.
When cooking rice, follow package instructions but check for doneness early—nobody likes mushy rice!

I remember my first attempt at making Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce; my friends declared it a culinary triumph, which made me feel like a kitchen superstar!

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook than white.

What can I substitute for cilantro in the green sauce?

You can use parsley or basil if you’re not a fan of cilantro’s taste.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least one hour but overnight is even better for maximum flavor.

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