Description
Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a vibrant dish featuring marinated chicken, seasoned Peruvian rice, and a creamy, zesty ají verde sauce. Juicy, tender chicken paired with flavorful rice and a refreshing green sauce makes for a complete, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of bold flavors.
Ingredients
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For the Chicken:
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2 lbs chicken (your choice of cut)
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Ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, garlic, lime juice, and oil (for marinade)
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For the Green Sauce (Ají Verde):
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1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)
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1/4 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup sour cream
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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1-2 jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat, optional)
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2 tablespoons lime juice
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For the Peruvian Yellow Rice:
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1 cup jasmine rice
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1 shallot (chopped)
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 tablespoon butter
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1/2 cup frozen peas
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1 teaspoon turmeric
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1 teaspoon cumin
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- 2 cups chicken stock
Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken:
Combine the marinade ingredients: ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, garlic, lime juice, and oil in a bowl. Coat the chicken evenly in the marinade and let it sit for at least 1 hour (longer for deeper flavor). -
Cook the Chicken:
Grill or bake the marinated chicken until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C). Set aside to rest before serving. -
Make the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped shallots and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in turmeric and cumin, then add the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender. Add frozen peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Fluff the rice once done. -
Prepare the Green Sauce (Ají Verde):
Blend cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, jalapeños, and lime juice in a blender or food processor until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning for spice and tang as needed. -
Serve:
Plate the rice, top with the grilled chicken, and drizzle the green sauce over the dish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Customizable Chicken: Choose any chicken cut you prefer (thighs, breasts, or wings). Adjust cooking times accordingly for different cuts.Adjust Spice: Add more or less jalapeño to the green sauce depending on your preferred spice level.Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu for a plant-based version of this dish.
