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Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce

Savory Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce Bliss

This Peruvian Chicken And Rice with Green Sauce is a delightful blend of juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and zesty sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Peruvian
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 thighs Chicken Juicy and flavorful, alternative chicken breasts will work but adjust cooking time.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Adds a warm, earthy flavor; no direct substitute, but coriander can be milder.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Provides a beautiful color and mild flavor; opt for smoked paprika to add depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances savoriness without the hassle of fresh garlic; fresh garlic is also a tasty alternative.
For the Rice
  • 1 cup Jasmine Rice Fluffy and aromatic; swap with basmati rice for a different flavor profile.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Infuses the rice with richness; vegetable broth is a lighter option.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Adds freshness to both the rice and green sauce; substitute with parsley if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice Brightens the dish, fresh is best, but bottled juice is a good backup.
For the Green Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Creates a creamy texture; use Greek yogurt or a vegan alternative for a lighter version.
  • 1/4 cup Queso Fresco or Cheese Provides a rich creaminess; feta or mild goat cheese can work well.
  • 1 medium Jalapeños Introduces spice to the sauce; modify the amount to suit your taste or switch to milder peppers.

Equipment

  • oven-safe skillet
  • food processor
  • Medium pot

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture generously onto the chicken, ensuring even coverage. Allow the chicken to rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the green sauce, which will help enhance the flavors.
  2. In a food processor, combine the jalapeños, cilantro, mayonnaise, cheese, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Once ready, set the aji verde aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you focus on cooking the chicken.
  3. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crisp. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for an additional 3 minutes.
  4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After searing, transfer the skillet with the chicken to the preheated oven. Roast the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in moisture before slicing.
  5. While the chicken is roasting, rinse jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear. In a medium pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 18 minutes without lifting the lid.
  6. After fluffing, stir in freshly chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and a pat of butter to enhance flavor and creaminess in the rice. Taste and adjust with salt as desired.
  7. To serve, place a generous scoop of the fluffy cilantro-lime rice on each plate, then arrange the sliced roasted chicken on top. Drizzle the creamy aji verde generously over the chicken.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 36gFat: 33gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 780mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

Ensure chicken thighs are completely dried before seasoning; this helps achieve a crispy skin. Taste and adjust the green sauce as needed.

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