Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice is a culinary journey that takes your taste buds straight to the vibrant heart of Peru. This dish blends the savory essence of perfectly roasted chicken with the refreshing zing of aji verde sauce, crafted from cilantro and jalapeño. Pair that with fluffy cilantro rice, and you have a plate that not only nourishes the body but also fills the soul. The delightful harmony of flavors makes this recipe perfect for any weeknight dinner or a small gathering. This is a step-by-step guide that will make preparing this delectable dish feel effortless.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Peruvian chicken recipe checks all the boxes for an ideal meal—it’s easy to prep, family-friendly, and quick to make, with minimal ingredients. Imagine coming home after a long day and having a delectable dinner ready in under 45 minutes! The chicken is succulent, the green sauce is tangy and vibrant, and the fragrant cilantro rice brings everything together beautifully. With its enticing aroma and burst of flavors, this dish will surely impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
- 4 Chicken Breasts – Tender and juicy, these chicken breasts will soak up all the delectable flavors.
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps the spices adhere to the chicken.
- 1 Teaspoon Cumin – Provides a warm and nutty flavor that enhances the chicken’s taste.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste – Essential for seasoning, these enhance every ingredient.
- 1 Cup Cilantro Leaves – The star of the green sauce, offering freshness and depth.
- 1 Jalapeño (Seeded, if desired) – Adds a delightful kick, adjustable to your heat tolerance.
- 1 Clove Garlic – Elevates the flavors with its aromatic essence.
- 1 Lime (Juiced) – Brightens the sauce with its zesty acidity.
- 1 Cup White Rice – A classic base that balances the dish.
- 2 Cups Chicken Broth – Infuses the rice with flavor, making every bite luscious.
- 1/2 Cup Chopped Cilantro – Folded into the rice for an extra burst of flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken will cook evenly.
- Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated to lock in moisture and flavor.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until they are thoroughly cooked and juices run clear.
- In a blender, combine cilantro leaves, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth to create your aji verde sauce.
- Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then add it to a pot with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then cover it and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fluffy.
- Stir in chopped cilantro to the cooked rice for a vibrant color and fresh flavor.
- Serve the chicken on a bed of cilantro rice, with a generous drizzle of aji verde sauce on top for added zest.
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Peruvian chicken dish even further, consider these chef secrets:
- Marinate the chicken for a few hours (or overnight) for deeper flavor absorption. A mix of olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper makes for a fantastic marinade.
- For extra crunch, sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to the oven.
- Don’t skip the blending pour, as blending the aji verde sauce not only makes it smooth but also integrates the flavors beautifully. You can adjust the amount of jalapeño for your desired heat level.
- Feel free to customize the rice by adding vegetables or using quinoa for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Present your Peruvian chicken on a large platter, surrounded by a vibrant mound of cilantro rice to create an inviting display. Consider serving it with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad tossed in lime dressing to balance the meal. For drinks, a refreshing lime-infused water or a non-alcoholic mojito complements the flavors beautifully. Alternatively, pair the dish with light, crispy tortillas or plantain chips for added texture.
Nutritional Information
The caloric breakdown for a serving of Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice is approximately 450 calories. Each serving provides a hearty dose of protein from the chicken, along with healthy fats from the olive oil. The cilantro and lime not only add flavor but also provide vitamins A and C. Feel free to indulge in this wholesome dish, knowing it’s both satisfying and nutrient-rich.
Storing Tips & Variations for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
- Freezing: Both the chicken and rice freeze well. Store in airtight containers for up to three months.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for optimal texture, then reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through to ensure juiciness.
- Healthier swaps: For a lower-carb option, swap white rice for cauliflower rice, which will absorb the aji verde sauce beautifully.
- Creative variations: Introduce diced bell peppers or corn into the rice for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
Now that you’ve discovered how easy it is to prepare this delightful Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice, it’s time to give it a try! This dish not only offers a burst of flavors and colors but also makes for a wholesome family meal. So gather the ingredients, put on your favorite music, and get cooking! You and your loved ones are bound to enjoy every last bite!
FAQs
-
Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs can add extra flavor and moisture to the dish, making it even more delicious. -
Can the chicken be grilled instead?
Absolutely! Grilling the chicken will give it a smoky flavor, complementing the freshness of the aji verde sauce beautifully. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. -
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Portion out chicken and rice into containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. -
Can I make the green sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! Aji verde sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.
Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru with this succulent chicken dish paired with zesty aji verde sauce and fluffy cilantro rice.
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken Breasts
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 Teaspoon Cumin
- Salt and Pepper to Taste
- 1 Cup Cilantro Leaves
- 1 Jalapeño (Seeded, if desired)
- 1 Clove Garlic
- 1 Lime (Juiced)
- 1 Cup White Rice
- 2 Cups Chicken Broth
- 1/2 Cup Chopped Cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
- In a blender, combine cilantro leaves, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt, blending until smooth.
- Rinse the rice under cold water, then add it to a pot with chicken broth and bring to a boil; cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in chopped cilantro to the cooked rice.
- Serve the chicken on a bed of cilantro rice, drizzling with aji verde sauce.
Notes
For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the olive oil mixture for a few hours prior. You can add vegetables to the rice for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
