Print

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 28 reviews

This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce recipe offers a vibrant and flavorful meal perfect for beginner cooks and family dinners. Featuring tender marinated chicken, aromatic yellow rice infused with turmeric and spices, and a creamy, fresh cilantro jalapeño sauce, it combines authentic Peruvian flavors with simple preparation. Ideal for grilling or baking, it ensures juicy chicken and fluffy rice complemented by a zesty green sauce, making it a satisfying and easy-to-make dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Marinade:

  • 1.5–2 pounds chicken (thighs, breasts, or any cut)
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice or white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons oil of choice (olive or vegetable oil)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Green Sauce:

  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 whole jalapeño chiles, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Peruvian Yellow Rice:

  • 1 cup jasmine rice
  • 1 tablespoon butter or oil
  • 1/4 cup onion, diced
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1 cup frozen peas

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine garlic, lime juice or vinegar, oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Reserve about 1/4 of this marinade for basting. Add the chicken pieces, coating them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to tenderize and infuse flavor.
  2. Preheat Grill or Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 450ºF (230ºC). If serving with rice, this is a good time to start it. Preheating ensures even cooking and optimal results.
  3. Grill Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the cut, until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC). Brush the chicken with the reserved marinade halfway through grilling for enhanced flavor and moisture.
  4. Bake Chicken: Alternatively, place the marinated chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC). Brush with the reserved marinade halfway through baking to keep the chicken moist.
  5. Make Rice: Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. Soak for 10-15 minutes, then drain. In a pot, sauté diced onion and minced garlic with butter or oil over medium heat until soft and fragrant. Add rice, turmeric, cumin, onion powder, salt, and pepper; stir for 1 minute. Pour in chicken stock and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low; simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in frozen peas, cover again, and let the rice rest for 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
  6. Make Green Sauce: Combine cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, jalapeños, garlic, olive oil, and lemon or lime juice in a blender. Pulse for about 30 seconds until creamy and smooth. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste, blending briefly again to combine.
  7. Serve: Plate the yellow rice and top with grilled or baked chicken. Drizzle generously with green sauce. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible, to maximize flavor and tenderness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC).
  • Thoroughly wash and soak rice to achieve fluffy, non-sticky grains.
  • Blend the green sauce until completely smooth for a creamy texture and consistent flavor.
  • Use fresh ingredients such as garlic, cilantro, and lime juice to enhance taste and vibrancy.
  • You can substitute bone-in chicken for more flavor, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
  • Serve with sides like fresh salad, plantains, avocado slices, roasted vegetables, or black beans for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Peruvian chicken, chicken marinade, green sauce, yellow rice, cilantro sauce, grilled chicken, baked chicken, easy dinner, family meal, beginner recipe, smoky chicken, turmeric rice, jalapeño sauce, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/peruvian-chicken-and-rice-with-green-sauce-recipe/