Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Cilantro Sauce Recipe
A flavorful Peruvian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken and fluffy rice served with a vibrant green sauce made from fresh cilantro, garlic, and lime. This meal combines savory, tangy, and herbaceous flavors for a delicious and satisfying experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Rice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Green Sauce
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
- 2 cloves garlic
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded for mild heat
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and browned on the outside.
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Make the Green Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro leaves, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and jalapeño if using. Blend until smooth and emulsified. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Plate the cooked rice, place the chicken on top or alongside, and generously drizzle the green sauce over the chicken and rice. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice, garlic, and cilantro for 30 minutes before cooking.
- The green sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
- Use chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice for richer flavor.
Keywords: Peruvian chicken, green sauce, cilantro sauce, chicken and rice, easy Peruvian recipe, lime garlic sauce
