Imagine sinking your fork into a plate of Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce, where juicy chicken meets fluffy, fragrant rice, all drizzled with a vibrant green sauce that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafting from the kitchen is enough to make anyone abandon their plans for dinner out; trust me, you’ll want to stay home for this culinary adventure.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a celebration on a plate! I recall the first time I tried it at a friend’s family gathering. The flavors were so captivating that I asked for the recipe before even finishing my first bite. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings—guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is simple to prepare, making dinner a breeze
- Bursting with flavors, it’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates
- The dish looks stunning on any table with its colorful presentation
- It’s versatile enough for weeknight meals or special occasions alike
I vividly remember my cousin’s eyes lighting up when I served this dish at our last family reunion—talk about a recipe that brings people together!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well, but adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding!
Long-Grain Rice: Choose high-quality long-grain rice for that perfect fluffy texture; nobody wants gluey rice!
Fresh Cilantro: Use fresh cilantro for the green sauce; it adds vibrant flavor and aroma.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the whole dish; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is key! The more, the merrier, right?
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels and enhance flavor without overpowering.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil is essential for sautéing and adds a nice richness.
Spices (Cumin & Paprika): These spices add warmth and depth; don’t skip them!
For the Sauce:
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and tanginess to balance flavors beautifully.
Jalapeño (optional): For those who like a kick, throw in some jalapeño; just be cautious about spice levels!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping your cilantro and garlic. Get everything ready because we’re about to create something magical!
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. When hot, place seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook until golden brown—around 6-7 minutes per side.
Sauté Your Aromatics: Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, toss in chopped garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds will do. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing!
Add Rice and Broth**: Pour in your long-grain rice along with chicken broth. Stir well while scraping any browned bits off the pan—it’s pure flavor magic! Bring this mixture to a boil.
Simmer Away!: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until rice is tender—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often; those pesky steam escapes can ruin everything!
Create Your Green Sauce**: Meanwhile, blend cilantro, lime juice, sour cream or yogurt, jalapeño (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth. Taste test because you deserve that little indulgence!
Now you have everything ready! Fluff your rice with a fork after cooking—it should be pillowy soft—and serve alongside that deliciously vibrant green sauce drizzled over each portion of chicken.
And there you go—your very own Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce masterpiece! Gather everyone around the table because this dish isn’t just tasty; it’s also an experience filled with laughter and good memories!
You Must Know
- This delightful Peruvian chicken and rice with green sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience
- The aromatic spices and vibrant colors will make your kitchen feel like a festive celebration
- Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this dish never fails to please
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to achieve crispy skin, then cook the rice while blending the green sauce for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out the chicken for tofu or adding veggies like bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor absorption
- Use fresh herbs in the green sauce to elevate its taste
- Keep your rice fluffy by rinsing it before cooking to remove excess starch
Sharing this recipe with friends during a potluck created lasting memories, especially when they asked for seconds—always a good sign of success in my book!
FAQ
What can I serve with Peruvian chicken and rice with green sauce?
Serve it alongside a fresh salad or crispy plantains for a complete meal.
Can I prepare the green sauce in advance?
Yes, you can blend the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
Is there a vegetarian version of Peruvian chicken and rice?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables or tofu for a tasty alternative.

Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
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- Author: Ann Foster
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce, a dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a zesty green sauce. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, delivering an unforgettable culinary experience that will impress even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 jalapeño (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Wash and chop cilantro and mince garlic.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the rice: Stir in the long-grain rice and chicken broth, scraping the pan's bottom to release browned bits. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Make the green sauce: Blend cilantro, lime juice, sour cream or yogurt, jalapeño (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Serve: Fluff rice with a fork and serve alongside chicken drizzled with green sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 472
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg