Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a bold, vibrant dish full of flavor and comfort. Juicy, seasoned chicken is served over savory rice and paired with a creamy, spicy Peruvian green sauce—also known as aji verde. It’s a colorful, satisfying meal that brings together Latin spices, fresh herbs, and rich textures in every bite. Perfect for dinner, meal prep, or impressing guests with something unique and delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:
boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breastssmoked paprikacuminoreganogarlic powdersalt and pepperolive oillime juice

For the rice:
long grain white rice or jasmine riceonion (finely chopped)garlic (minced)chicken brotholive oilsalt and peppercilantro or peas (optional)

For the green sauce (aji verde):
fresh cilantrojalapeño or serrano peppers (seeded for less heat)garlicmayonnaise or Greek yogurtlime juiceolive oilparmesan cheese (traditional)white vinegar or lime juiceavocado (optional, for creaminess)salt and pepper

directions

For the chicken:

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Toss chicken in the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden. Let rest, then slice or shred.

For the rice:

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and garlic until softened.

Add rice and stir to toast slightly, about 1-2 minutes.

Pour in chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro or peas if desired.

For the green sauce:

Blend cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, mayo (or yogurt), lime juice, parmesan, olive oil, and vinegar until smooth.

Add salt and pepper to taste. For extra creaminess, blend in avocado.

Chill until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesMarinating time: 30 minutes (optional)Cooking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 45-60 minutes

Variations

Use bone-in chicken thighs for richer flavor.

Swap jalapeños for serrano peppers if you like more heat.

Serve with a side salad or fried plantains for a fuller meal.

Use quinoa or brown rice instead of white for a healthier twist.

Add a splash of aji amarillo paste to the green sauce for an authentic Peruvian kick.

storage/reheating

Store chicken, rice, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.The green sauce is best fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in a sealed jar or container.

FAQs

What is aji verde?

It’s a Peruvian green sauce made with herbs, peppers, and creamy elements—spicy, tangy, and addictive.

Can I grill the chicken?

Yes, grilled chicken adds a smoky depth and works great with this dish.

What’s the best rice to use?

Long-grain white or jasmine rice work well for texture and flavor.

Can I make the sauce ahead?

Yes, and it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.

Is this recipe spicy?

Mild to medium depending on your pepper and seed choice—you control the heat!

Can I use store-bought green sauce?

You can, but homemade aji verde has unmatched freshness and flavor.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free—just check your broth and sauces to be sure.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Chicken and rice freeze well; the sauce is best made fresh or refrigerated only.

Do kids like this?

Yes, just reduce or skip the jalapeño if needed—serve the green sauce on the side.

What can I serve it with?

Fresh salad, roasted veggies, or grilled corn pair wonderfully.

Conclusion

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a flavor-packed dish that brings zesty, herby, and comforting elements together in one easy-to-make meal. With juicy spiced chicken, fluffy rice, and that irresistible green sauce, this dish delivers bold taste with minimal effort. A true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to earn a spot in your weekly rotation!