Name: Easy Peruvian Chicken Green Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded if desired; 1 garlic clove; Juice of 1 lime; 0.25 cup olive oil; Salt, to taste

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Introduction to Easy Peruvian Chicken Green Sauce

Cooking often feels intimidating, especially on those crazy weeknights. So, I am so excited to share my Easy Peruvian Chicken Green Sauce recipe with you! A bright and flavorful dish that takes only an hour to come together – perfect for busy moms and professionals like us. A bright, zesty green sauce that will take tender chicken thighs to whole new levels and, more important, a crowd-pleaser your loved ones will rave about. I certainly do so this recipe is definitely your go-to not only for everyday meals but also to blow dinner guests’ minds!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Peruvian Chicken Green Sauce

Easy. This Peruvian Chicken Green Sauce is all about easy and taste, that’s the sum of all parts put together to prepare a weeknight dinner solution that can be made so very quickly. With such few ingredients, a top-notch classy meal can be prepared and served at home. The thick green sauce has such an explosion of flavors that every bite is supposed to be unforgettable. Not to forget, it’s gluten-free so there’s no holding back!

Ingredients for Easy Peruvian Chicken Green Sauce

Gathering the right ingredients is key to whipping up this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – These are juicy and cook up tender, perfect for absorbing the sauce’s vibrant flavors.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning, they bring out the natural taste of the chicken.
Garlic powder – A quick way to enhance flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Olive oil – This adds richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden sear on the chicken.
Long-grain white rice – A fluffy, mild base that complements the boldness of the green sauce.
Chicken broth – This infuses the rice with savory depth. You can use homemade broth or a good-quality store-bought one.
Onion – Finely chopped, it becomes sweet and aromatic when sautéed, bringing a wonderful backdrop to the dish.
Garlic cloves – Fresh garlic adds that unmistakable punch of flavor that makes every bite delightful.
Ground cumin – A warm spice that adds a touch of earthiness; it ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Cilantro leaves – Fresh cilantro gives the sauce its vibrant green color and refreshing taste.
Jalapeño pepper – For those who love a bit of heat, this pepper kicks up the flavor. Feel free to deseed it for a milder sauce!
Lime juice – The acidity brightens the green sauce, balancing the richness of the chicken perfectly.
Optional garnishes – Looking to elevate your dish? Consider some extra cilantro or lime wedges for serving. It adds a nice touch!

For exact quantities, scroll down to the bottom of this article, where you can find it all together for easy printing!

Easy Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce – Zesty, Juicy & Bursting with Bold Flavor!

How to Make Easy Peruvian Chicken Green Sauce

Now, let’s dive into creating this beautiful dish. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a flavorful meal in no time!

Step 1: Seasoning the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder evenly over both sides. This helps build a robust flavor right from the beginning, which is crucial for a delicious bite.

Step 2: Searing the Chicken

Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully lay the chicken thighs in the skillet. Let them sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they achieve a lovely golden brown crust. This step locks in moisture and greatly enhances the chicken’s flavor.

Step 3: Sautéing Aromatics

After removing the chicken, it’s time to sauté the onion and garlic in the remaining oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until they turn soft and fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step brings layers of flavor that are essential for the overall taste of the dish.

Step 4: Toasting the Rice

Now, add the rinsed rice to the pan along with the ground cumin. Toasting the rice for about a minute before adding the broth gives it a nutty flavor and enhances its texture. Make sure to stir well to coat the grains with the aromatic mix.

Step 5: Cooking the Chicken and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Place the seared chicken back in the skillet, cover it, and reduce the heat to low. Let everything cook together for about 20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the broth’s flavors while the chicken finishes cooking perfectly.

Step 6: Making the Green Sauce

While the chicken and rice are cooking, it’s time to whip up that vibrant green sauce. In a blender, combine cilantro leaves, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt. Blend until smooth and beautiful. The freshness of the cilantro combined with the kick from the jalapeño makes this sauce pop!

Step 7: Plating the Dish

Finally, it’s time to bring your dish to life! Arrange the cooked chicken and rice on plates. Drizzle generously with the green sauce. For visual appeal, you can add some extra cilantro leaves or lime wedges on the side. This makes your dish not just taste great but look fantastic as well!

Tips for Success

Always rinse your rice before cooking to achieve the perfect fluffy texture.
Don’t skip toasting the rice; it enhances the flavor significantly!
Feel free to adjust the heat of the green sauce by modifying the jalapeño.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier results.
Garnish with extra cilantro or lime for a fresh finishing touch.

Equipment Needed

Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works well, but any frying pan will do.
Blender: A regular blender or an immersion blender will create a smooth sauce.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements, especially for the rice and broth.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping the onion, garlic, and jalapeño.

Variations of Easy Peruvian Chicken Green Sauce

Grilled Chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken thighs instead of searing them. This adds a new dimension to the dish.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with firm tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Marinate it in the same spices for a delightful twist.
Whole Grain Rice: Substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a heartier, more nutritious meal.
Coconut Milk: Replace some of the chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or basil for the green sauce. Each provides its unique taste profile!
Extra Heat: Add more jalapeños or even a splash of hot sauce to the green sauce for those who crave a fiery kick.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Peruvian Chicken Green Sauce

Fluffy Rice: Serve with extra long-grain white rice to soak up the delicious green sauce.
Fresh Salad: Pair with a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing crunch.
Crispy Plantains: Complement the dish with fried plantains for a delightful contrast in texture.
Cold Beverages: Enjoy with a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea to cool off the palate.
Presentation: Sprinkle with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a colorful and elegant finish.

FAQs about Easy Peruvian Chicken Green Sauce

Many love to ask questions about this vibrant dish. Here are a few frequently asked questions that might help clarify any doubts!

Can I use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Skinless chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option. Just note that they may cook a bit quicker, so keep an eye on them.

What if I don’t have cilantro?

No worries! While cilantro is key for that green sauce, you can substitute it with fresh parsley or even spinach for a different but still delicious flavor.

Can I prepare the green sauce in advance?

Yes, feel free to prepare the green sauce ahead of time! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days!

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Easy Peruvian Chicken Green Sauce is perfect for meal prep. Simply store the chicken and rice separately in airtight containers for a quick lunch or dinner.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?

If you prefer a milder sauce, simply omit the jalapeño seeds or use a small amount. Adding more can kick the heat up several notches!

Final Thoughts

Making this Green Sauce for Peruvian Chicken easy has felt like uncovering a gem in my kitchen. So many vibrant colors, so many rich flavors that come together so easily; it makes dinnertime feel special no matter how crazy life gets. It’s just a happy thing to have to share this dish, and the sauce’s amazing flavors will turn frowns around the table into big wide smiles. Every bite should take you right into a sun-soaked kitchen in Peru, where every meal is a celebration. May this recipe give you as much happiness as I have found in it, dully shining midweek dinners made into feasts for those you love and feed.