Savory Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce Magic

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s something undeniably enticing about the scent of spices mingling in the kitchen, and that s exactly what drew me into the world of Peruvian cuisine. Imagine biting into juicy chicken thighs, perfectly seasoned and nestled atop fragrant rice soaked in rich pan drippings. But the real star here? A vibrant green sauce bursting with flavor that just elevates every bite.

After a long day, this Juicy Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce becomes my go-to weeknight dinner a clever balance of comfort and culinary flair that doesn t take hours to prepare. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that dazzles both the taste buds and the eyes while keeping your dinner table lively and full of chatter.

Get ready to bring a touch of this South American magic into your home kitchen it s time to escape the mundane and savor a dish that s as delightful as it is simple!

Why is Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce so Special?

Irresistible flavors: This dish brings together juicy chicken thighs and fluffy rice, creating a symphony of tastes that delight your palate.

Effortless cooking: In just under 30 minutes, you can craft a gourmet meal that feels both comforting and upscale.

Gluten-free goodness: Naturally gluten-free, this recipe fits perfectly into any dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Crowd-pleaser: Your family and friends will rave about the vibrant green sauce it s the perfect conversation starter at dinner parties.

Versatile options: With simple tweaks, you can customize the spice level or swap ingredients to suit your taste try it with brown rice or boneless chicken!

Elevate your weeknight meals with this delightful masterpiece, and for more quick inspirations, check out our easy weeknight dinners.

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Chicken Thighs Tender and juicy, use skin-on for extra crispiness.
• Olive Oil Adds richness; substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.

For the Rice

• Rice Long-grain white rice is ideal for fluffiness; avoid brown rice for best results.
• Cumin Offers warmth and depth; essential for that authentic Peruvian flavor.
• Paprika Provides a beautiful color and mild smokiness; smoked paprika is an excellent choice for a bolder taste.
• Garlic Powder Enhances flavor; fresh garlic might be used if preferred.
• Onion The flavor base; yellow onions are recommended for their sweetness.
• Chicken Broth Infuses moisture and flavor; opt for vegetable broth if vegetarian.

For the Green Sauce

• Fresh Cilantro The star of the sauce, add stems for extra flavor; parsley is a good substitute.
• Jalapeño Adds spice; adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
• Mayonnaise For creaminess; Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative.
• Sour Cream Balances flavors; can also be replaced with Greek yogurt.
• Lime Juice Brightens the sauce; fresh is always best, but bottled works in a pinch.
• Salt & Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let s dive into crafting this Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce that your family won t stop talking about!

How to Make Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

1. Prepare spice mix: In a small bowl, combine cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This aromatic blend infuses wonderful flavors into the chicken, so whisk it well until evenly mixed.

2. Season chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure crispy skin. Generously rub the spice mix all over the chicken thighs, getting into every crevice to maximize flavor.

3. Sear chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken skin-side down and sear for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes before removing it from the skillet.

4. Cook aromatics: In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and sauté until soft, around 3 minutes. Add minced garlic, continuing to sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly golden.

5. Toast rice: Stir in the rice and toast it for 1 minute, ensuring it absorbs the flavorful oils from the pan. You ll see it turn slightly translucent this promotes a deliciously fluffy texture when cooked.

6. Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to capture all the delicious bits. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, bring to a bubbling boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 25 minutes without peeking!

7. Make green sauce: While your chicken and rice cook, blend together cilantro, jalapeño, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and salt until you achieve a smooth, vibrant green sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed it should be tangy and refreshing!

8. Serve: After cooking, keep the dish covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve alongside the chicken, drizzled generously with the green sauce for a burst of flavor!

Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges for a pop of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

Fridge: Store leftover chicken and rice in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining flavor and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze chicken and rice in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then gently warm the chicken and rice in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to the rice for better moisture.

Green Sauce: Make the green sauce fresh or store it separately in the fridge for up to 5 days. It s best served fresh for optimal flavor with your Peruvian Chicken & Rice.

What to Serve with Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce?

Imagine the vibrant flavors of your Peruvian feast coming to life as you complement this dish with perfectly chosen sides.

• Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado with red onion and cilantro drizzled with lime provides a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken. The coolness of the avocado perfectly balances the spice of the green sauce.

• Sweet Fried Plantains: Their natural sweetness and crispy exterior add a delightful textural contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience. These warm bites are irresistible and create a wonderful sweet-savory harmony.

• Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice garnished with fresh cilantro complements the layered flavors in the main dish while echoing its zesty sauce elements. It s light, fluffy, and bursting with herby aroma.

• Roasted Corn Salad: This sweet and crunchy salad, with vibrant peppers and a zesty dressing, brightens your plate and adds a satisfying bite that contrasts with the chicken s richness.

• Grilled Vegetables: Charred peppers, zucchini, and onions drizzled with olive oil and spices provide a smoky, earthy element. They enhance both the flavor and the visual appeal of your meal.

• Mango Salsa: A refreshing salsa made with ripe mango, lime, and cilantro adds a tropical twist, balancing the dish s richness with its sweetness and acidity. Perfect spooned on top of your chicken for that extra zing!

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce Variations

Feel free to play with this beloved recipe to make it truly your own and explore exciting flavor possibilities.

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil or mint to the green sauce for a refreshing twist that brightens the overall flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced serrano peppers into the rice while it simmers for an extra layer of heat. The warmth will infuse the rice beautifully.
• Coconut Rice: Swap out chicken broth for coconut milk when cooking rice, adding a tropical aroma and slightly sweet flavor.
• Grilled Chicken: Marinate chicken in citrus and spices ahead of time, then grill instead of searing to achieve delightful smokiness and char.
• Vegetable Rice: Toss in peas and carrots or bell peppers during the cooking stage of the rice for added color and nutrition your kids might not even notice!
• Creamy Upgrade: Blend in a bit of avocado to the green sauce for a creamier texture while still keeping the same zesty flavors.
• Nutty Flavor: Top the finished dish with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy contrast that brings another texture to each bite.
• Zesty Lime: Increase the lime juice in the green sauce for a more tangy profile that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and rice.

Experiment with these variations to make this dish fit your desires and preferences perfectly! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

These Juicy Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken with the spice mix and keep it refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the green sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, keeping it sealed in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When ready to serve, simply cook the rice and sear the chicken as instructed your dish will be just as delicious and packed with flavor, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights. Enjoy the ease of enjoying homemade goodness at your table!

Expert Tips for Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce

• Crispy Skin Trick: Pat chicken thighs dry before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving that desired crispy, golden-brown skin.

• Don t Rush Cooking: Allow flavors to meld by sticking to the recommended cooking times. Peeking or rushing can sacrifice that delicious depth of flavor.

• Adjust Cooking Time for Boneless: If you re using boneless chicken thighs, reduce the cooking time by about 5 minutes to prevent dryness.

• Leftover Storage Advice: Store chicken and rice separately to maintain texture when reheating; add a splash of broth to the rice for the best outcome.

• Perfecting Your Sauce: Adjust the jalapeño in the green sauce to tailor the spice level; start with half for a milder kick and add more as desired.

Enjoy crafting your own flavorful Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce magic!

Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I always recommend using skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe. They are juicier and yield a wonderfully crispy skin, which adds to the overall flavor. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs; just remember to adjust the cooking time by about 5 minutes to avoid drying out the chicken.

How should I store leftover Peruvian Chicken & Rice?
For best results, store your leftover chicken and rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This helps keep them fresh while preserving texture and flavor. When reheating, gently warm the rice on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth for moisture.

Can I freeze the chicken and rice?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze chicken and rice in individual portions. Simply pack them into freezer-safe bags or containers and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They should keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm up on the stove for best results.

How can I adjust the spice level in the green sauce?
Great question! You can easily customize the heat of the green sauce by adjusting the amount of jalapeño you include. For a milder flavor, see if you can remove the seeds and use only half of the jalapeño. If you re craving more heat, go ahead and add more! Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! This Peruvian Chicken & Rice with Green Sauce is inherently gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities. If you have dairy allergies, you can substitute both the mayonnaise and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut yogurt or vegan mayonnaise. Always check labels to ensure that your ingredients align with your dietary needs.

Can I make the green sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! While the green sauce is best enjoyed fresh for the brightest flavor, you can prepare it up to 5 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving to refresh its creamy consistency.