Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce: A Flavorful Latin American Classic

Peruvian cuisine is a rich fusion of flavors, drawing inspiration from Indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian culinary traditions. Among its many beloved dishes, Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce stands out as a vibrant, mouthwatering meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors. This dish, often called Peruvian Arroz con Pollo with Aji Verde, is savory, aromatic, and slightly spicy, making it a favorite among food lovers worldwide.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make an authentic Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce at home. We’ll explore the essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, variations, and even the best side dishes to pair with it. Plus, we’ll dive into nutrition facts, pro tips, and FAQs to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

Now, let’s start with an introduction to this irresistible Peruvian dish and what makes it so special.

Introduction to Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

The Rich Tradition of Peruvian Cuisine

Peruvian food is known for its unique blend of flavors influenced by various cultures. The use of spices, fresh herbs, and vibrant sauces creates dishes that are both comforting and bold. One of the country’s most popular meals is Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, a dish that combines juicy, seasoned chicken, fragrant rice, and a zesty green sauce known as Aji Verde.

What Makes This Dish Special?

Unlike typical chicken and rice recipes, Peruvian Arroz con Pollo is infused with cilantro, garlic, and aji amarillo peppers, giving the rice a vibrant green hue and a distinct herbal flavor. The Aji Verde sauce, made with jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and creamy elements like mayo or cheese, adds a spicy, tangy, and slightly creamy contrast to the dish.

The Key Components: Chicken, Rice, and Aji Verde (Green Sauce)

This dish is made up of three essential parts:

• The Chicken – Traditionally, chicken is marinated in a blend of spices, lime juice, and oil before being grilled, roasted, or pan-fried for maximum flavor.
• The Green Rice – Cooked with cilantro, garlic, onions, and aji peppers, this rice is aromatic, fluffy, and slightly spicy.
• Aji Verde (Green Sauce) – The star of the dish, this sauce combines cilantro, jalapeños, lime, and a creamy element for a bold, spicy, and tangy finishing touch.

This flavor-packed dish is easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Next, we’ll look at the essential ingredients needed to bring this Peruvian classic to life.

Ingredients Needed for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Essential Ingredients for the Chicken

To make flavorful Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce, you’ll need fresh and aromatic ingredients. The chicken is the heart of this dish, so choosing the right cut is important. Traditionally, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are used because they remain juicy and tender when cooked. However, you can also use boneless chicken thighs or chicken breasts if preferred.

Key Ingredients for the Chicken:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on, or boneless)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Juice of 1 lime

Spices and Marinade for Authentic Flavor

The marinade plays a crucial role in making the chicken rich in flavor. The blend of lime juice, garlic, and cumin enhances the natural taste, while paprika adds depth and color. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Ingredients for the Green Sauce (Aji Verde)

The Aji Verde sauce is what sets this dish apart. It’s spicy, tangy, and creamy, complementing the savory chicken and rice beautifully.

Key Ingredients for Aji Verde:

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 jalapeños (seeds removed for mild spice)
• 2 cloves garlic
• ¼ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Blend all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Adjust spiciness by adding more jalapeños or a pinch of aji amarillo paste, a traditional Peruvian chili pepper.

Rice Ingredients and Variations

The rice is cooked in a flavorful green sauce made with cilantro, onions, and garlic. Unlike plain white rice, this Peruvian green rice is herbaceous and vibrant.

Key Ingredients for the Rice:

• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, blended with 1 cup water
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt

This combination creates fragrant, fluffy, and flavorful rice that perfectly complements the chicken. Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step cooking process.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Marinating the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and lime juice.
2. Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade, ensuring every piece is well covered.
3. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.

Cooking Methods: Grilled, Roasted, or Pan-Fried?

There are three common ways to cook Peruvian Chicken:

• Grilled: Gives the chicken a smoky, charred flavor.
• Roasted: Keeps it juicy and tender with crispy skin.
• Pan-Fried: Creates a beautiful golden-brown crust while keeping the inside moist.

How to Pan-Fry the Chicken (Most Common Method):

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden.
3. Flip and cook the other side for 5 more minutes.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for another 8-10 minutes until fully cooked.

How to Make the Perfect Peruvian Green Sauce

1. Add cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, mayonnaise, lime juice, vinegar, and salt to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Preparing the Green Rice: Tips for the Best Texture

1. Blend fresh cilantro with 1 cup water to create a green puree.
2. In a pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat it with the flavors.
4. Pour in the cilantro mixture and chicken broth, stirring well.
5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
6. Cover and cook for 15-18 minutes, until the rice is tender and fluffy.

Assembling the Dish: Bringing It All Together

1. Plate a generous portion of green rice.
2. Place the golden-brown Peruvian chicken on top.
3. Drizzle Aji Verde sauce over the chicken or serve it on the side.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges.

With this step-by-step guide, you can now make an authentic Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce at home! Next, we’ll explore variations and substitutions to customize this dish to your taste.

Variations and Substitutions

Using Different Cuts of Chicken: Thighs vs. Breast vs. Drumsticks

While traditional Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is made with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, you can use different cuts based on your preference:

• Chicken Thighs (Best Choice) – Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for pan-frying or roasting.
• Chicken Breasts – A leaner option, but may require extra marination to keep it moist.
• Drumsticks – Great for roasting or grilling; they absorb marinades well.

If using boneless, skinless chicken, reduce the cooking time to avoid drying out the meat.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Want to make this dish plant-based? You can swap the chicken for a vegetarian alternative:

• Tofu or Tempeh – Marinate and pan-fry for a crispy, flavorful result.
• Jackfruit – A great meat substitute that absorbs flavors well.
• Mushrooms – Sautéed portobello or oyster mushrooms add a meaty texture.

For the Aji Verde sauce, replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

Substituting Ingredients Without Losing Authenticity

If you don’t have all the traditional ingredients, here are some easy swaps:

• Aji Amarillo Peppers → Use jalapeños or a mix of yellow bell peppers + cayenne.
• White Vinegar → Swap with apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar.
• Chicken Broth for Rice → Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Cilantro in Rice → If you don’t like cilantro, use parsley for a milder herbaceous flavor.

These small tweaks allow you to customize the dish without compromising its authentic Peruvian essence.

Side Dishes & Pairings

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

A well-rounded meal is all about balance. While Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is already hearty, adding the right side dishes elevates the experience.

Popular Side Dishes:

• Salsa Criolla – A Peruvian onion salad made with thinly sliced red onions, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. The acidity cuts through the richness of the chicken.
• Fried Plantains – Sweet and caramelized plantains pair beautifully with the spiced chicken.
• Black Beans – A simple side of seasoned black beans adds extra protein and fiber to the meal.
• Avocado Slices – Fresh avocado complements the spiciness of the Aji Verde sauce.

Perfect Drinks to Complement the Dish

Pairing a refreshing drink with this dish enhances the flavors. Here are some great options:

• Chicha Morada – A traditional Peruvian purple corn drink with cinnamon and cloves.
• Pisco Sour – Peru’s famous cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, and egg white.
• Lime-Infused Sparkling Water – A simple, refreshing option that pairs well with spicy food.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Peruvian Feast

For a true Peruvian dining experience, serve Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce family-style with side dishes, sauces, and a fresh salad. A side of warm bread or yuca fries also makes a great addition.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Caloric Breakdown of Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Understanding the nutritional value of Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce helps you enjoy it while staying mindful of your diet. This dish is high in protein, packed with vitamins, and provides a balanced mix of healthy fats, carbs, and fiber.

A single serving (1 chicken thigh + rice + Aji Verde sauce) contains approximately:

• Calories: 500–600 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fats: 20g
• Fiber: 5g

For a lighter version, opt for grilled chicken instead of pan-fried, reduce the amount of oil, and use Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the green sauce.

Health Benefits of Cilantro, Aji Peppers, and Spices

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce isn’t just delicious—it also offers several health benefits:

• Cilantro – Rich in antioxidants and Vitamin K, which support heart and bone health.
• Aji Peppers & Jalapeños – Contain capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and reduce inflammation.
• Garlic & Onions – Known for immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Chicken – A lean source of protein that supports muscle growth and overall health.

This meal is not only comforting and flavorful, but it also provides essential nutrients to keep you feeling energized.

Common Mistakes and Pro Tips

Avoiding Overcooked or Dry Chicken

One of the most common mistakes when making Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is overcooking the chicken, leading to a dry texture. To prevent this:

• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to 24 hours for maximum juiciness.
• If pan-frying, sear on high heat first, then reduce heat to cook evenly.
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—chicken is ready at 165°F (75°C).

Getting the Right Balance of Heat and Flavor in Aji Verde

The Aji Verde sauce should be creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy, but some common mistakes include:

• Too spicy? Add more mayo or yogurt to balance the heat.
• Too mild? Add another jalapeño or a pinch of aji amarillo paste.
• Too thick? A splash of lime juice or olive oil can make it smoother.

Tips for Making the Rice Extra Fluffy and Flavorful

• Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch.
• Use the right liquid ratio—for every 1.5 cups of rice, use 2 cups of broth.
• Let the rice rest for 5 minutes after cooking before fluffing with a fork.

By avoiding these mistakes and following these pro tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality version of Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce every time!

FAQs

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Bringing It All Together

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a dish that delivers big, bold flavors in every bite. The perfectly seasoned chicken, herb-infused rice, and spicy, creamy Aji Verde sauce create a meal that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Authentic Peruvian flavors – A delicious way to explore Peruvian cuisine at home.
• Customizable and adaptable – Make it spicier, milder, or even vegetarian.
• Easy to prepare – Simple steps and ingredients you can find anywhere.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s as delicious as what you’d find in a Peruvian restaurant.

So, why not bring some Peruvian flavors to your kitchen? Try this recipe today and experience the rich, vibrant, and unforgettable taste of Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce!