Description
This Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is a vibrant and satisfying dish featuring tender, spiced chicken thighs, seasoned rice, and a spicy-cool green sauce made with cilantro, lime, and creamy mayo. It’s the perfect combination of comfort food and bright, bold flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp oregano
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Juice of 1 lime
For the Rice:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup long-grain white rice
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2 cups chicken broth
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1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
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Salt, to taste
For the Green Sauce:
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1 cup fresh cilantro (stems removed)
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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1 jalapeño (seeded for less heat)
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1 garlic clove
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Juice of 1 lime
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Salt, to taste
Instructions
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Marinate the chicken:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, and all spices. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight). -
Cook the chicken:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C), or heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden, then finish baking for 10–12 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). Set aside to rest. -
Make the rice:
In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more. Add rice and toast for 1–2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and salt, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in peas (if using) and let stand, covered, 5 minutes. -
Blend the green sauce:
Add all green sauce ingredients to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt and lime juice to taste.
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Serve:
Plate the rice, top with sliced chicken, and drizzle with green sauce. Serve extra sauce on the side.
Notes
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Add avocado or a fried egg on top for extra richness.
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The green sauce doubles as a great dip for veggies or fries!
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You can swap chicken thighs for breasts if preferred.