Peruvian Chicken and Rice, also known as Arroz con Pollo Peruano, is a vibrant, comforting one-pot meal bursting with bold Latin flavors. Juicy, seasoned chicken is simmered with fragrant rice, fresh cilantro, and colorful vegetables, creating a hearty dish that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
What truly sets this recipe apart is the iconic Peruvian green sauce (Aji Verde). Creamy, tangy, and lightly spicy, this cilantro-based sauce adds a fresh punch of flavor that transforms every bite into something unforgettable.
This easy, family-friendly recipe brings the warmth and color of Peruvian cuisine straight to your kitchen—perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan meal with easy cleanup
- Packed with fresh herbs and bold flavor
- Tender chicken and fluffy, perfectly seasoned rice
- Customizable heat level
- Includes authentic Peruvian green sauce
- Great for leftovers and meal prep
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
Chicken and Rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1¾ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup frozen peas
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
Peruvian Green Sauce (Aji Verde)
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 small jalapeño (seeds removed for mild heat)
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Peruvian Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the chicken with cumin, paprika, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Stir in the rice and toast for about 1 minute to absorb the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Stir in peas and return the chicken to the pan. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes, until the rice is tender and fluffy. Add chopped cilantro and lime juice, fluff gently with a fork, and adjust seasoning if needed.
How to Make the Green Sauce (Aji Verde)
Add cilantro, mayonnaise, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust salt or lime juice as needed. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Peruvian Chicken and Rice hot with:
- A generous drizzle of Aji Verde
- Fresh lime wedges
- Avocado slices or a simple green salad
- Fried plantains or roasted vegetables for an extra touch
This dish pairs beautifully with limeade, sparkling water, or a chilled beer.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh cilantro for the best color and flavor
- Adjust spice by adding more jalapeño or leaving the seeds in
- Avoid over-stirring the rice to keep it fluffy
- Add a pinch of saffron or extra turmeric for richer color
- Flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even better
Variations
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu
- Seafood: Use shrimp or firm white fish
- Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of coconut milk before serving
- Instant Pot: Sauté ingredients, then pressure cook for 8 minutes with natural release
FAQs
Can I use brown rice?
Yes. Increase liquid slightly and cook an additional 10–15 minutes.
Can I skip the jalapeño?
Absolutely. The green sauce will still be flavorful without heat.
How long does it keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze it?
The chicken and rice freeze well, but the green sauce is best made fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce is a comforting yet exciting dish that brings bold flavor, fresh herbs, and creamy heat together in one unforgettable meal. Whether you’re exploring Peruvian cuisine for the first time or recreating a favorite, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.