If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with bold flavors and easy to prepare, this Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a must-try! The chicken is marinated in warm spices and grilled or baked to juicy perfection, then served over a bed of fragrant, turmeric-infused rice. What makes this dish truly special is the Ají Verde – a creamy, spicy, and tangy green sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
This dish is not only delicious but also versatile! You can swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or even opt for grilled tofu for a vegetarian twist. The combination of smoky, savory, and citrusy flavors will transport you straight to the heart of Peru with every bite. Serve it for a weeknight dinner or impress guests at a gathering – either way, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your home.
Full Recipe:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken (thighs, breasts, or any cut)
- 2 tbsp lime juice or white vinegar
- 2 tbsp oil of choice
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Green Sauce (Ají Verde):
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 jalapeños, roughly chopped (seeds removed for less spice)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon or lime juice
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Peruvian Yellow Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 tbsp butter or oil
- ¼ cup onion, diced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp turmeric
- ¼ tsp each cumin, onion powder, salt, pepper
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup frozen peas
Directions:
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix all marinade ingredients.
- Reserve ¼ of the mixture and set aside.
- Coat the chicken well and let it marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
Cook the Chicken (Grill or Bake):
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, brushing with reserved marinade.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Bake chicken on a foil-lined sheet for 30 minutes, brushing with reserved marinade halfway through.
Prepare the Rice:
- Wash and soak rice for 10-15 minutes, then drain.
- In a pot, sauté onion and garlic in butter until soft.
- Add rice, turmeric, cumin, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken stock, bring to a boil, then cover and cook on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Stir in frozen peas, cover, and let sit for 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Make the Green Sauce:
- Blend all sauce ingredients until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble:
- Serve the grilled or baked chicken over the yellow rice, drizzled with green sauce. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: 655 kcal | Servings: 4
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce – A Flavorful Latin American Delight
Peruvian cuisine is known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and the perfect fusion of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences. One of its most beloved dishes, Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce (Ají Verde), is a stunning example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into an unforgettable meal. This dish features juicy, spice-marinated chicken served over fragrant yellow rice and topped with a creamy, herbaceous Ají Verde sauce, creating a harmony of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting.
The Essence of Peruvian Chicken and Rice
At its core, this dish embodies the essence of Peruvian home cooking. It’s a one-plate meal that is both hearty and nourishing. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lime juice, cumin, and smoked paprika, which gives it a deep, smoky flavor with just the right balance of tanginess. Meanwhile, the rice is infused with turmeric, cumin, and onion powder, giving it a rich golden color and an aromatic depth. The dish is then brought to life by the signature green sauce, which is a creamy blend of cilantro, jalapeños, mayonnaise, and lime juice.
The Influence of Peruvian Cuisine
Peruvian cuisine is one of the most diverse in the world, thanks to its rich cultural history and varied geography. Traditional Peruvian dishes often incorporate spices brought by the Spanish, cooking techniques from indigenous cultures, and ingredients introduced by Asian and African immigrants. This particular dish reflects the country’s love for bold spices, fresh herbs, and balanced flavors.
The use of Ají Verde, a creamy green sauce made with fresh cilantro, lime, and spicy peppers, is a signature element of Peruvian cooking. It’s often served alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even seafood. The sauce provides a zesty contrast to the smoky, spiced chicken, making every bite irresistibly delicious.
Why This Dish Stands Out
Unlike other chicken and rice dishes from around the world, Peruvian Chicken and Rice offers a unique flavor profile that sets it apart. Here’s what makes it truly special:
- Aromatic and Colorful Rice – The addition of turmeric and cumin gives the rice a vibrant golden hue and a slightly earthy taste. This isn’t just any side dish; it plays a crucial role in complementing the juicy, spiced chicken.
- Perfectly Marinated Chicken – The marinade, made with lime juice, garlic, cumin, and paprika, ensures the chicken is not only flavorful but also incredibly tender.
- Creamy and Spicy Green Sauce – The Ají Verde sauce is a game-changer. Its herby, citrusy, and slightly spicy kick enhances every element of the dish.
- Versatility in Cooking Methods – Whether grilled for a smoky char or baked for a juicy and tender texture, this dish is easy to customize to your preferred cooking style.
- Balanced Nutrition – With lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the rice, and healthy fats from the green sauce, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
The Secret Behind Peruvian Green Sauce (Ají Verde)
One of the key highlights of this dish is Ají Verde, the creamy green sauce that gives it an extra burst of flavor. The sauce’s vibrant green color and tangy, slightly spicy taste make it the perfect pairing for the rich, smoky flavors of the chicken and rice.
Ají Verde is traditionally made with fresh cilantro, mayonnaise, lime juice, and spicy ají amarillo peppers. However, in many international adaptations, jalapeños or serrano peppers are used as a substitute. This creamy sauce is often served with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even French fries, making it a versatile condiment that enhances a variety of dishes.
For those who love experimenting, Ají Verde can be adjusted to fit different flavor preferences. Adding Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise makes it lighter, while extra lime juice gives it a more citrusy punch. Some variations also include Parmesan cheese for added richness.
A Dish for Every Occasion
One of the best things about Peruvian Chicken and Rice is its versatility. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings:
- Weeknight Dinner – Since it’s a one-pan meal, it’s an excellent option for busy nights when you want something delicious yet easy to prepare.
- Meal Prep Option – Both the chicken and rice can be stored and reheated easily, making this an ideal dish for meal prep enthusiasts.
- Family Gatherings – Its bold flavors and colorful presentation make it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, potlucks, or dinner parties.
- Outdoor BBQs – If you choose to grill the chicken, it becomes the perfect dish for a summer barbecue, paired with grilled vegetables and extra Ají Verde on the side.
Tips for the Best Peruvian Chicken and Rice
To truly capture the essence of this Peruvian classic, here are some expert tips to elevate your cooking:
- Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor – Letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour (or overnight) enhances the depth of flavor and ensures juiciness.
- Use Fresh Cilantro for the Green Sauce – Fresh herbs make all the difference in Ají Verde, so don’t substitute with dried herbs.
- Choose the Right Rice – Jasmine or basmati rice works best for this recipe because it absorbs the flavors while remaining fluffy.
- Adjust the Spice Level – If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds from the jalapeños in the green sauce, or add more if you love extra heat.
- Grill for a Smoky Flavor – If possible, grilling the chicken enhances the smoky, charred taste, which pairs beautifully with the spiced rice and green sauce.
Conclusion
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s a flavor-packed experience that highlights the best of Peruvian cuisine. From the marinated, smoky chicken to the fragrant golden rice and the vibrant, spicy Ají Verde sauce, each element contributes to a dish that is both comforting and exciting.
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping, making it a great addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you grill or bake the chicken, adjust the spice level, or experiment with different herbs, this dish is highly adaptable to your personal taste.
Once you try it, this Peruvian classic is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a celebration of bold flavors, cultural fusion, and simple yet delicious cooking techniques that will transport your taste buds straight to Peru.