Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice is a vibrant dish that showcases the rich flavors of South American cuisine. This recipe offers tender, juicy chicken thighs, seasoned and baked to perfection, while the bright and zesty green sauce, known as aji verde, elevates the meal to a culinary delight. Paired with fragrant cilantro rice, every bite is a burst of flavor that transports you to the heart of Peru. Best of all, this dish comes together easily, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Follow this step-by-step guide to whip up a plate that not only looks stunning but also satisfies the taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice. First and foremost, the preparation is incredibly easy. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. This recipe is genuinely family-friendly, appealing to both kids and adults alike with its enticing flavors and comforting textures. Plus, it strikes the perfect balance between being quick and rewarding—ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something special without a lot of fuss. Lastly, the minimal ingredients mean that you can enjoy an authentic taste of Peru without breaking the bank!
Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
- 4 chicken thighs: Juicy and meaty, these provide the perfect canvas for flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A light drizzle adds richness and helps with browning.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 1 cup cilantro: Fresh and vibrant, cilantro adds a burst of green flavor.
- 1 jalapeno pepper: Adds a little kick to the aji verde sauce.
- 1 garlic clove: Provides depth and aroma.
- 1 lime (juiced): The acidity elevates the sauce, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup rice: Fluffy grains serve as the perfect base.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds richness to the rice.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for rice): Enhances flavor and adds color.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds warm, earthy notes to the rice.
Step-by-Step Directions for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In the meantime, season the chicken thighs generously with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat them thoroughly to ensure even seasoning and moisture.
Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer, then bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re cooked through and a lovely golden brown color develops on the outside.
Prepare the aji verde while the chicken cooks. In a blender, combine cilantro, jalapeno, garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth; this sauce is the key component that ties the dish together.
Cook the rice: In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the rice and cumin. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
After the rice is cooked, stir in the chopped cilantro to give it an extra pop of flavor and freshness.
To serve, arrange a bed of cilantro rice on each plate, topped with the baked chicken thighs. Drizzle generously with the aji verde sauce for a zesty finish.
Tips & Tricks
To make this dish even easier, you can marinate the chicken thighs in olive oil, salt, and pepper a few hours ahead of time. If you’re looking to enhance the aji verde, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess or swap out the jalapeno for a more mild pepper if you prefer a less spicy sauce. For a unique twist, try grilling the chicken instead of baking it for added smoky flavor!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
When it comes to serving Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice, presentation matters! Serve it on a colorful plate or a wooden board for added rustic charm. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad would complement the flavors beautifully. Pair it with a light-bodied white wine or refreshing lemonade for the perfect dining experience.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. The combination of chicken and cilantro rice offers a balanced meal with a good source of protein and carbohydrates. On average, a serving contains around 400 calories, making it a comforting yet sensible choice for dinner. The fresh ingredients provide essential vitamins, such as Vitamin C from the lime and cilantro.
Storing Tips & Variations for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave, taking care not to dry out the chicken. For a healthier variation, substitute brown rice for white rice, which not only adds fiber but also brings a nutty flavor to the meal. You can also experiment with adding black beans or corn to the rice for a heartier dish.
Conclusion for Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
Don’t wait any longer to indulge in the vibrant flavors of Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice! This dish captures the essence of Peru with each bite, making it a delightful addition to your dinner rotation. Once you try it, you’ll find it hard to resist making it again and again!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works just as well, but make sure not to overcook them to keep them juicy.
2. Is the aji verde sauce very spicy?
The heat level can vary depending on the jalapeno. If you prefer milder, remove the seeds or use a less spicy pepper.
3. Can I prepare the rice in advance?
Yes! Cook the rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
4. What if I can’t find fresh cilantro?
You can substitute parsley for cilantro, although the flavor will change slightly.
5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
All ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, so as long as you use gluten-free rice, you can enjoy without worry!
Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce & Cilantro Rice
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A vibrant dish featuring tender chicken thighs, zesty green sauce, and fragrant cilantro rice that brings the flavors of Peru to your table.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cilantro
- 1 jalapeno pepper
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 lime (juiced)
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for rice)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken thighs generously with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange chicken on a baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the aji verde by blending cilantro, jalapeno, garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- In a pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add rice and cumin, then cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy.
- After the rice is cooked, stir in chopped cilantro.
- Serve cilantro rice on plates topped with baked chicken thighs and drizzle with aji verde sauce.
Notes
Marinate chicken thighs in olive oil, salt, and pepper ahead of time for extra flavor. Consider adding Greek yogurt to the aji verde for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
