02/28/2026
Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice:
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Green Sauce (Aji Verde):
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
½ cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic
1–2 jalapeños (seeded for less heat)
2 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1–2 tbsp Greek yogurt for creaminess
Instructions
Prepare the chicken
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Rub chicken with olive oil and the spice mixture.
Roast in a baking dish for 35–40 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and skin is golden.
Cook the rice
In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (2–3 minutes).
Add rice and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, until rice is cooked and fluffy.
Make the green sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, mayonnaise, garlic, jalapeños, lime juice, olive oil, and yogurt (if using).
Blend until smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Adjust thickness with a bit of water or more lime juice if needed.
Assemble and serve
Plate a portion of rice, top with roasted chicken, and drizzle generously with green sauce.
Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
Tips & Variations
For a spicier sauce, leave the jalapeño seeds in.
Use chicken drumsticks or a whole chicken, adjusting roasting time accordingly.
Serve with roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Green sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.